The Crossing Guide Issue 3

IMAGINE CHILDRENʼSMUSEUM

AN OLD-FASHIONEDDIGITAL THEATRE

THE CHIP BUTTERS STORY

LANGLEY, WA:ART, SHOPPINGAND FINE FOODROSARIO RESORT:

NESTLED IN NATURE,STEEPED IN HISTORY

GUIDECROSSINGTHEFREE TRAVEL

IMAGINE CHILDRENʼSMUSEUM

AN OLD-FASHIONEDDIGITAL THEATRE

THE CHIP BUTTERS STORY

LANGLEY, WA:ART, SHOPPINGAND FINE FOOD

IN THIS ISSUE

Vol.1 Issue 3Sept. 2014

ROSARIO RESORT:NESTLED IN NATURE,STEEPED IN HISTORY

How the Locals Live

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Marisa [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR Colleen [email protected]

LEAD DESIGNER Roman Komarov

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andy Pritiken

COPY EDITOR Wes Davis

PHOTOGRAPHY C9 Photography. All photography in this issue is by C9 unless otherwise noted.www.designc9.com

WEBSITE Roman [email protected]

ILLUSTRATION Tammy Findlay and Andy Pritiken

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Todd Hobert

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Davin Michael Stedman, Colleen Harper, Pamela Kuntz, Lorraine Wilde, Stacy Reynolds, Katie Kavulla, Riley Sweeney, Thomas G. Hadley, Ramona Abbott, Shawna Matthews, Doug Ogg, Marisa Papetti, Cait Auer, Dora Bona, Anna Minkler

AD SALES

Marisa Papetti: [email protected]

Peyton Thomas: [email protected]

PUBLISHING

Published on 10% post-consumer paper with soy-based ink.

DISTRIBUTION

Certified Folder Display Service, Inc.

2407 South 200th Street

SeaTac, WA 98198

www.CertifiedFolder.com

CONTACT INFORMATION

The Crossing Guide

1155 N State St. Ste 510

Bellingham, WA 98225

www.thecrossingguide.com

office: (360) 306-8073

fax: (360) 392-8015

cell: (360) 224-2387

[email protected]

3 VOL 1. ISSUE 3. AUG/SEPT/OCT 2014

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WHAT’S INSIDE

F E A T U R E37. ROSARIO RESORT He built a mansion on Orcas Island and the rest is history.

11. THE CHIP BUTTER’S STORY From humble beginnings in Detroit to Musician Xanadu.

15. ADVENTURE Exploring Langley, WA.

22. A MAN NAMED TABARI One of Everett’s hidden gems.

27. SHORT STORY Expectations by Dora Bona.

29. THE HISTORY OF THIS Jack o’ lanterns.

31. AN OLD-FASHIONED DIGITAL THEATRE History and the digital revolution, married in one beautiful place.

33. POEM A Bubble for Jan

35. LIBATIONS Hot spiced mead and tips from the pros on enjoying the burgeoning microbrewery scene.

44. IMAGINE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Wonder for all ages.

49. THE TRAIN WRECK BAR AND GRILL So good, we went for breakfast and came back for dinner.

53. SEMIAHMOO RESORT Re-modeled, Re-invigorated & Re-inspired.

57. THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT CAMELS Riding camels in the wilds of whatcom.

61. POEM Penelope by Greg Lane.

63. DATE NIGHT We plan great dates so you don’t have to.

65. BOOKS Calling all Bibliophiles.

67. FERRY & BORDER INFOR-MATION Everything you need to know.

73. EVENT LISTINGS

page 49

page 41

page 15

WHAT’S THIS? READ US ONLINE!

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The magazine is free for you to enjoy online as well. Visit us at t h e c r o s s i n g g u i d e . c o m . From there you can also enjoy back issues.

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TAKE US WITH YOU!Read it online:

THECROSSINGGUIDE.COMand visit us on social media

GUIDECROSSINGTHEHow the Locals Live

FREE TRAVEL

C O V E R A R T I S T

Gavin Olson, 26, was born and raised in Bellingham and has been creating unique, one of a kind works of art for the past 20 years. Gavin strives to cre-ate ecclectic pieces and develop artis-tic ideas that that have never been seen before. Along with his love for color: he is inspired by daily life and unique experiences he encounters. Art is Gavin’s true passion and he plans on continueing to pursue a career as an artist. Gavin’s other pieces can be seen at www.artbygavin.tumblr.com.

We are proud to feature Gavin Olson on this issue’s cover

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12

THE REC ROOMTHE CHIP BUTTERS STORY

hen Chip Butters was a teenager, con-templating his prospects and future in his hometown of Detroit, Michigan, he was torn. He longed to contribute to the sounds of a musical world he had dis-covered listening to Led Zeppelin rec-ords on his giant 1970’s headphones, and he struggled with the temptation of studying for the priesthood, which spelled leaving behind so much of the secular music that he loved. But Chip Butters did have a calling. He was going to spend his life lending a hand to his fellow man. Whether it was serving the church of Rock & Roll, or delivering ser-mons each Sunday, Butters was on a spiritual journey. He made a choice. He became a recording engineer.

Today Chip Butters serves his commun-ity by owning and operating a state of the art recording studio, which he has brilliantly integrated into an impressive showcase venue, just 25 miles north of Seattle. The venue side of this 4000 square foot gem, tucked below the streets of Everett, WA, is called The Rec Room. The recording side of this oper-ation, Chip fondly calls ButtersSound Studios. Coming down the stairs into The Rec Room feels a bit like sneaking into the Bat Cave and finding a speak-easy. This seems like the place a guy like Chip Butters was meant to be, but getting from Detroit to his self created music haven was an adventure full of the unexpected. Maybe the moral of the story is that sometimes if you listen

W

Story by Davin Steadman Photos by Todd Hobert


carefully, you can actually hear one door opening just as the one in front of you closes. That’s exactly what this record-ing engineer and hard working dreamer from Detroit did.

In 1997, after apprenticing in his home-town at two notable Detroit studios, Chip Butters got wanderlust. On a whim, he gambled his future on a gig

as an intern at the world famous Robert Lang Studios, site of Nirvana’s final recording session and the starting point of endless platinum albums that have changed the ebb and flow of Rock &

Roll. Putting his faith in destiny, Chip packed everything he could into his family’s old 1978 Custom Cruiser and moved right into the studio in Shore-line, WA where he slept for the next two months, and worked round the clock for the next three years, moving up to chief engineer along the way.

After building his resume and sharp-

ening his skills working on projects with household names such as Alice In Chains, Duff McKagan, and Eddie Ved-der, Chip got an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. A wealthy Seattle investor

came to him with the means to resur-rect the long forgotten Columbia City Theater. The plan was to build a top stu-dio from scratch within the theater and then reopen the landmark to the public. It meant restoring the attractive venue to its Prohibition era glory. Full disclo-sure, when I first ran into Chip in 2006, he was producing my first album with The Staxx Brothers. By then he had already transformed the Columbia City Theater from its last life as a private raver paradise, painstakingly creating a polished and productive facility that served its community. Before he left Columbia City in 2010, he played an unheralded role in changing the face and spirit of that entire up and coming neighborhood, fondly known as the most ethnically diverse zip code in Seattle. One particular morning, I opened the back door to the alley after an all night session (Chip didn’t bother to wake me as he pushed on through till sunrise arranging horn parts for me on

The plan was to build a top studio from scratch within the theater and then reopen the landmark to the public. It meant restoring the attractive venue to its Prohibition era glory.

14

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piano.) As I stumbled bleary eyed into the dawn, a garbage man greeted me, telling me with enormous pride that his own brother had recorded there with Chip. He told me it meant a great deal to have a place like this available here, then with a wink and a nod emptied the garbage can and went about his day.

For 10 years Chip kept the Columbia City Studio and Theater running almost round the clock, working sometimes 18 hour days, nearly 7 days a week. It was a juggle to even watch, for it wasn’t unusual to have Chip leave you for a moment to study his latest mix, while he ran upstairs to run sound for a sold out burlesque show or trapeze act.

During the downturn of the music industry and the economy in general, the ownership of the theater and its recording studio changed hands a few times. In the end Chip was the odd man out, left with no other choice but to leave behind the theater he rebuilt and turn his eyes north for a chance to start over again. On April 1, 2010, he came to Everett, WA. Pete Sikov, the

man who owned the real estate where Columbia City Theater is located, gave Chip a chance to work his magic again, this time under his own name and sole ownership. He had seen what Chip could do first hand and had no doubt that with the love of another blue collar community and an understanding land-lord, this kid from Detroit might be able to do for downtown Everett what the Columbia City Theater had done for its own neighborhood.

Every recording studio I’ve ever visited, from a college apartment with a closet converted into a vocal booth, to a multi million dollar facility with platinum rec-ords lining the hallway, has somehow been a blend of a church, a laboratory, and a lounge. The Rec Room is an exceptional blend. Its concert seating includes black leather couches. A mural overlooks the stage and the stage itself is leopard print. On the opposite end is Chip’s new control room, and his treas-ured digital console from Columbia City. It’s here, that past midnight marks the end of another 18 hour day: record-ing a new band, hosting a concert,

often a clinic, or even a church service on Sunday. That’s when Chip can come up his back stairs and climb up the fire escape overlooking the freight trains that slice through town day and night. He can look up at the stars and be thankful. Thankful that the universe and this community has given him the opportunity to serve them each day.

The Rec Room

Located in Everett WA, The Rec Room is a Full-Produc-tion Facility, Showcase Venue & Ultra Lounge, as well as the home of Butter-Sound Recording Studios.

www.recroomtickets.com


EXPLORING LANGLEY, WASHINGTON

16

By: Cait Auer

EXPLORING LANGLEY, WASHINGTON

rive under a canopy of heavy wooded evergreen trees before a glimpse of coastline greets you, or stretch out your arms on the deck of a ferry and fly alongside seagulls as you approach the petite historical town of Langley, WA perched on the outskirts of Whidbey Island. Welcome to a community where residents sing happy birthday to complete stran-gers, a variety of wildlife idly roams across blossoming vege-table gardens and sloping coastal fields, and an appreciation of great food and better company enchants a passerby.

D

DOWNTOWN WATERFRONT WALK: Stroll down the blackberry bush lined trails to the waterfront walkway that is riddled with totem poles, smooth benches, broad picnic tables, and easy entrances into the Saratoga Passage for any kayaker, scuba diver, or swim-mer. Spot whale pods from the shore from the end of February into early June and from October through December, and be sure to listen for the ringing whale bell on First Street.

MUSIC FOR THE EYES: If your wander-lust tempts you to dream of distant shores, get your fix at Music For The Eyes- an eclectic shop filled with a vibrant array of colorful items from Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe. You’ll find rugs, jewelry, hats, slippers, purses, instruments, textiles, and more. Behind each one-of-a-kind item lies a unique story. Fred and Shannon Lundal, retired diplomats who run the shop, hand pick every product. The Lundals currently make two big trips per year, so each item is exceptionally rare. The pair has established respectful relationships with family businesses, particularly car-pet makers from Uzbekistan, Turkmen-istan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, and Iran.

CLYDE THEATER: Painted robin’s egg blue with a whimsical accent of yellow stars, The Clyde Theatre resembles a magical time machine to the 1930’s when trips to the cinema were events to remember. Rose shaded curtains drape around the screen and line the interior walls of the one-room theatre, immediately setting the tone for a dignified outing at a great price. Lounge


Whether it is fine dining, adventure, relaxation, or shoppes you are looking for, Langley, WA is full of engaging and unique experiences to be had.

18

on plush chairs and enjoy one of today’s feature films in crystal clear sound and picture quality. Weekend showings include the typical Hollywood faire, but the theatre loves to vary its selections with interesting foreign or independent films. Owners Lynn and Blake consider the Clyde community to be family, and take extra care in accommodating respectful attendees of all ages.

PRIMA BISTRO: Cozy up at the French inspired Pacific Northwest cuisine res-taurant, Prima Bistro, for an intimate setting accompanied with expertly crafted small and large dishes. Whether you decide to dig into an a la carte plate of truffled wild prawns in rich honey sauce, pan fried veal sweat breads in a refreshingly sweet apricot-thyme gas-trique, or Washington clams with house made chorizo bathed in a zesty white wine and tomato coulis, each dish provides bursts of complex flavors that are meant to be enjoyed slowly while accompanied with a glass of their

superb wine. With the views of ocean tide serving as your meal’s backdrop on their deck, let the time roll by and satisfy your taste buds.

VILLAGE PIZZARIA: If you crave a tangy pizza that has just the right amount of crispy/soft dough ratio, fol-low the locals to Village Pizzeria and indulge in an array of savory pies washed down with their famously tasty cocktails. Don’t be afraid to get your hands messy, as the gooey cheese and overflowing toppings are quick to ooze down fingertips.

USELESS BAY COFFEE: Artisanal roasted coffee is found in a quiet sanctu-ary where the Useless Bay Coffee Com-pany blends into the shaded, green scenery. Learn the tricks of coffee roasting on site while sipping on a nutty,

velvety concoction made especially by dedicated baristas. Abandon all precon-ceptions of coffee at the door, and taste an expertly brewed cup o’ joe.

INN AT LANGLEY: Spoil your senses at the Inn At Langley, a luxury resort with a rustic flair, providing breathtaking views of Saratoga Passage and crisp, soothing amenities that reflect the laid-back lifestyle of this quiet, calm island. After a day of plucking seashells and soft polished rocks from the shore, soak in a jetted tub or lounge on the European down-filled duvet in an over-sized guestroom, suite, or cottage. Drift into a new state of relaxation and succumb to being pampered by their extensive spa services. Dine by the light of their cutting edge restaurant’s double-sided river rock fireplace. Revel in the finesse of an interactive, multi-course dinner prepared by award-win-ning chef Matt Costello, where every dish resembles a deliciously modern piece of art.

CHOCOLATE FLOWER FARM: Treat yourself to farm-made chocolate themed products at Langley’s Choco-late Flower Farm. Take your love of chocolate to a whole new level with their candles, chocolate-colored flowers, and jams. The farm’s nursery hosts hard-to-find perennials and sultry plants that are perfect to spice up any residential backyard.

CALLAHAN’S FIREHOUSE: At Calla-han’s Firehouse, experience the oppor-tunity to blow your own glass and create a curvaceous masterpiece in merely thirty minutes. The studio offers diverse possibilities for glassblowers from ages five to one hundred and five, and allows customers to engage in a centuries’ old art form while customiz-ing their project from start to finish. Observe the glass grow soft like taffy

as it is shaped and fine-tuned, and pick up the glistening fruits of your labor the next day. Schedule a day with friends and loved ones!

Whether it is fine dining, adventure, relaxation, or shoppes you are looking for, Langley, WA is full of engaging and unique experiences to be had. Witness peaceful nature in the Saratoga Woods Preserve. Horseback ride through weaving trails. Select an exceptional book from one of Langley’s bookstores and lounge in one of the many quiet havens in this town. Treasure the escape and listen to Langley’s heart-beat; if you take the time to feel it and hear it, you’ll feel relaxed and rejuven-ated well after you journey home.

Treasure the escape and listen to Langley’s heartbeat; if you take the time to feel it and hear it, you’ ll feel relaxed and rejuvenated well after you journey home.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Visitlangley.com

Primabistro.com

Innatlangley.com

Uselessbaycoffee.com

Callahansfirehouse.com

Chocolateflowerfarm.com

Theclyde.net

Harvest Festival proceeds will go toward supporting programs and initiatives of Assumption Catholic School.

Thanks to our hard working volunteers and these generous sponsors:Heavenly Givers

Bellingham Pediatric Dentistry • Mary Elizabeth Bisese • Stephanie A. Caravagio Church of the Assumption • Kloke Financial Services

RAM Construction • The Crossing Guide • YellowBadger Software Solutions Soulful Givers

Gary’s Heating and PlumbingGraceful Givers

Bellingham Physical Therapy • Clarence and Grace Bob • Karen Cook Pax Christi Whatcom • Vinostrology Wine Lounge & Merchant

Raffle Donations: Klicks Running/Walking, McEvoy Oil, Salon Capelli, Trader Joes

HARVEST FESTIVALSeptember 19-21, 2014

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23 VOL 1. ISSUE 3. AUG/SEPT/OCT 201423 VOL 1. ISSUE 3. AUG/SEPT/OCT 2014

24

here is a painter that lives on Colby Avenue named Tabari Ahmad. He lives to paint and works full time to live; yet still daydreams about becoming a big stand up comedian like Richard Pryor. Such charac-teristics would not be so terribly unique if Tabari were not both deaf and, if you care to listen him, a fine storyteller. When he tells his own tale there’s a glimmer in his eye, the shine of a man that chooses to laugh instead of cry. You want to root for the the guy because it’s a hard truth that most painters that ever leave a mark on the world, will have a hard road before them or at least behind. To be worth remem-bering, a painter pays his dues. It’s a life suited for those brave enough to keep finding comedy in the human condition. Take for instance the true story of how Tabari Ahmad’s very first collection became a permanent fixture of the Everett community.

A MAN NAMED

TABARIWrittenby Davin Michael Stedman, Photos by Todd Hobert

T

26

The first time I hung out with Tabari we met up at Red Rocks Subs on Broad-way. He brought along his 11 year old daughter, occasionally telling her ‘ear muffs’ if he anticipated we might curse (she quickly covered her ears). The first tale Tabari told me really knocked me out. He explained how one day back in 2009, he brought a few of his first pieces to his local barber shop. His bar-ber dug his stuff. He said he had real potential. Tabari was naturally moved and with pride he hung his best work in the shop. But upon his return a few weeks later for a regular trim he discov-ered his paintings were gone. You see his barber was not an art dealer nor a collector. Customers came in, liked a painting, and made him an offer. The barber sold each painting like a bootleg DVD, with no overhead. When Tabari asked his barber how much money his art sold for, the gentleman shrugged and said “I dunno”. He hadn't bothered to keep track of the money. In fact,

folks that bought the art had no clue about the painter’s identity, because the pieces weren’t properly signed or priced for sale. Tabari added with a wince, then broke into a smile, “I can imagine people coming over to some guy’s house and asking ‘who painted this?’ The host just scratches his head and says, ‘I dunno". In the end Tabari traded his first art collection to his bar-ber for a pair of free hair cuts.

"Tabari is one of those people whom you know is an artist and always will be an artist. No matter what other things or jobs are going on in his life, his iden-tity definitely stands out as an artist. In a historical context, Tabari is a contem-porary artist who incorporates graffiti and a street art style to his paintings. I love how his portraits are of powerful, yet feminine black women in iconic poses. His portraits have a great energy about them, and bold use of color.”

- Painter Shannon Cyphert

After enjoying pot roast subs at Red Rock, Tabari took me up to his apart-ment and studio on Colby to view his work up close. When we arrived his daughter sat down and jumped back to work on her latest painting. It was a touching experience watching them interact as two artists. While Eden isn’t his daughter by birth, you can see the father’s pride he takes in her progress. It’s touching how much she admires the father figure in her life. It isn’t the easiest hand being a deaf, black painter, in a town where his art is often met with tin eared remarks along the lines of suggesting that his art would sell much better at the local Art Walk, if he instead focused his efforts on painting more popular images like pretty horses, kittens, and puppies. He explains that he loves puppies, he just doesn’t paint them. But he does listen to the mas-ters. Most painters take for granted the lessons they learn in art class, but Tabari Ahmed learned about his idols like Diego Rivera and Frieda Kahlo the same way he first learned about Biggie Smalls. From the word of his peers and word on the street. You should have seen Tabari’s eyes light up when recalled the great day he first heard about the late Haitian-American painter Jean-Michel Basquiat.

For Tabari life is good. I watched him put finishing touches on some of his favorite work on his very first canvas: repur-posed wood from his days working at Dunn Lumber. He also recently saved up a couple thousand dollars to pur-chase a new state of the art hearing aid that allows him to interact with the world like never before. But it’s more than just about new sounds, it about an old soul. As he recalled, as his daughter smiled at him from across the room, “When I was younger I just felt so iso-lated with my disability, but then I dis-covered painting, and all these great artists like Picasso and Basquiat. And for the first time in my life, I knew I wasn’t alone. They became my friends.”


S H O R T S T O R YExpectations by Dora Bona

stand in front of the full-length mirror and wrap my arms around a monstrous mound of belly. I look huge. The bright red top I picked up from the op-shop this morning does nothing for me. It’s comfortable though. And God knows, a girl in this state needs comfort!

I feel the urge to pitch forward, so I lean back, and stick my belly out to compensate for the weight. My back aches with the effort. I practice different poses in front of the mirror. Then I pile my curly black hair on top of my head and pout seductively. Sophisticated, sexy pregnant woman is the look I’m going for. Hairy beachball is the result.

Then I muss my hair, let my shoulders droop and I lurch and heave from side to side. I practise walk-ing up and down with a firm, springy step, head held high. That’s better. Feels good.

When I’ve perfected my walk, I shower and dress. I struggle into a pair of sensible black leggings with a stretchy front panel. I pull the tent-like top over my head and step into black sandshoes. A splash of bright red lipstick and voila! I look like Roseanne on a bad day.

Over a cup of coffee, I consider the direction my life is about to take. I’m supposed to be feeling excitement, but instead I feel trepidation. I should

be looking forward to the next few months, yet I feel sick with anxiety. Maybe it’s because I have no-one to share it with.

I’ve been living alone since Damien left. Within a week of telling him the news, he decided he had to go and “find himself”. Two thousand kilometers away!

“You’ve changed Karen” he told me.

“This represents commitment and secur-ity to you and I understand that. But it’s going to change things between us.”

Thinking about this now, it makes me laugh. My best friend Sherry tells me she’s heard that he’s shacked up with some dancer in Perth. And guess what. She’s expecting his baby!

I could have moved back in with mum I suppose, but I think I was born with this independent streak. Mum worries about me.

“How are you going to manage the early mornings? You’ve never been a morning person Karen” she fusses. I tell her it’s going to be okay. I’ll manage.

I finish my coffee. It’s early but I don’t want to miss the bus and be late for my appointment.

It’s a crisp, golden morning. People glance at my belly as I make my way down the street to the bus stop and I feel a little self conscious.

It’s interesting to watch the look on their faces and I wonder what they’re all think-ing. Maybe they think I look a little young to be pregnant. Perhaps my jaunty walk and radiant smile reflects the excitement I feel about what’s to come.

Half an hour later, I arrive at the office of Blake Jones, whom I’ve come to know

I

well over the last few months. The receptionist scrutinizes me as always through little square, wire-framed spec-tacles, perched on the end of her nose.

“He’ll be with you shortly. Please take a seat”

There are two other young women like me in the waiting room. They also look uncomfortable as they half sit, half lie on the lumpy waiting room couch. We exchange nervous nods. Then Blake Jones appears at the door of his office. He points to me.

“Come on in Karen”

So I follow him in. Uneasy. I remember what my drama teacher once told me in school. Whenever you’re nervous, take a deep breath and focus on any object in the room. Block everything else out. It helps you relax.

I focus on Blake Jones’ head. Wispy little strands of remnant red hair have been combed creatively across in a vain

attempt to hide the patch that is so con-spicuously unadorned. It helps.

***

Later in the evening, I sit cross-legged on my bed and sip chilled champagne. It’s an extravagance in which I don’t nor-mally indulge.

The phone rings.

“Well?” says Sherry

“Well what?” I ask innocently

“Don’t DO this to me Karen. How did it go? What did he say? Did you make it through the final audition? Did they do the screen test? Did you get the lead for heavens sake!”

My smile fills the empty room.

“You mean the lead part of a young girl who agrees to be a surrogate mother in Blake Jones latest telemovie? The part that will earn me $150,000 for three

months work and skyrocket me - I hope - to fame and fortune? Is that the part you mean?”

Sherry shrieks.

“You GOT THE PART!”

We talk for over an hour. Afterwards, I fumble with the tape that holds on my padded belly and I toss the thing on the floor. Even though I’m supposed to wear it for as long as possible each day, it’s a relief to get it off. I wonder how women who are really pregnant cope with what must be constant discomfort.

I think about my day. The most wonder-ful day of my life. And I read the contract I’ve just signed with Blake Jones Pro-ductions. I know that I’ll have to be up at dawn every morning, and the hours will be long, but I’m ready.

Perhaps it’s the champagne, but I just know I have that special glow.

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T H E H I S T O R Y O F T H I SJack o’ lanterns by Colleen Harper

oman scholars wrote the first descrip-tions of jack-o-lanterns after their con-quest of the Celtic lands. They were horrid faces, carved on hollowed out tur-nips or beets and lit with a glowing ember. The Celts celebrated Samhain, a fall equinox ritual, at least as early as the first century AD. At the time of the Roman invasion, Samhain rituals were well established and intricately tied to folklore. Celts believed that on the night of Samhain, the spirits of all the years dead would rise to journey into the after-life, and the spirits of ancestors would rise to cause mischief. Jack-o-lanterns were carved, lit, and set outside a home to guide the spirits of the recent dead, and also to trick the ancient spirits into believing the residents themselves were ghouls so they might leave the home unmolested.

At the beginning of the 4th century AD, the emperor Constantine converted to christianity and all of its accompanying rituals and symbology permeated the Roman Empire. Catholics began practi-cing Hollowmas, a three day festival wherein the souls of the recently dead were prayed for and celebrated. They carved their own Jack-o-Lanterns from turnips and lit them to represent the poor souls trapped in purgatory, never able to ascend to heaven.

The word Jack-o-Lantern comes from an atmospheric light phenomena some-times seen over peat bogs. There are several modern theories for the exact cause of the this phenomenon, but sci-ence has yet to provide a decisive explan-ation. Ghostly lights appear over bogs and then retreat as the observer approaches. The Celts believed them to be spirits and they referred to them collo-

R

Oh!—fruit loved of boy-

hood!—the old days re-

calling, When wood-grapes

were purpling and brown

nuts were falling! When wild,

ugly faces we carved in its

skin, Glaring out through the

dark with a candle within!

- John Greenleaf Whittier,

1850

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quially by many names, including jack-o-lantern, a reference to a common folk legend. The legend states that Jack was a mischievous thief that managed to trap the devil and bargain his own exemption from hell in exchange for the devils release. There are many vari-ations on the story but they all end with poor Jacks death. He is forbidden to enter heaven because of his sin, and unable to enter hell because of his bar-gain. The devil tosses Jack a burning coal from hell which he uses to light a lantern for his eternal wandering.

European immigrants to America brought their many Hallowe’en and Hal-lowmas traditions to the new world. They carved the giant native pumpkins instead of turnips and beets. In the 1800’s, throwing Hallow’s eve mas-querades became increasingly popular and by the end of the 19th century, Vic-torians were racing to impress their neighbors with fancy decorations and

themed parties. Costumed children would sometimes use jack-o-lanterns to light their way from house to house to collect treats, and many pumpkins were carved as part of the decoration and merrymaking.

In the 20th century pumpkin jack-o-lan-terns remain an important and iconic part of Halloween. Contemporary pumpkin carvers compete for the most intricate and creative design. Many gro-tesque faces are still carved, but also a range of other images from landscapes to abstract art. Pumpkins are no longer carved out of fear of the dead, or as protection from otherworldly forces, but as a traditional holiday pastime and artistic outlet.


urtains pass over my head and the walls bleed sound. An organ has eaten into the stage, a Wurlitzer 2-manual 7-rank style D-2 ‘special,’ a master of machination within the walls, an orchestra of keys and pedals, of strings and pipes and percussion, of two hands and two feet. Above the antique Wurlit-zer hangs a sleek digital screen, a recent addition that marries history with modern technology.

Envisioned by Edwin A. Halberg and summoned through the mind of archi-tect William Aitken, The Lincoln The-atre breathed its first light in 1926. A period theater in the Spanish style, it was somewhat of an oddity in the Northwest, at a time when more exotic styles were in fashion. Built in down-

town Mount Vernon, it housed silent films while also providing a stop between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. for performers on the vaudeville circuit. The Argus, a newspaper published out of Burlington, WA reported on May 13, 1926: “Nothing like it has ever been constructed before...the theatrical world is sitting back astounded.”

The room hums. Surfaces are clad in deep reds, browns and black, trans-porting me outside of reality even before the show starts. Every surface is a memory of a time when aesthetics didn’t hide function but entangled it. Soft light glows from lamps hung under a slightly domed auditorium ceiling painted sky blue and white. Finding a seat within so many does not make me

AN OLD-FASHIONED DIGITAL THEATREby Mathew Williamson

C

32

feel alone. I am walking through a place possessed with great intent and history.

The organ continues to play. One of only two of it’s model, the ‘mighty Wurlitzer’ is something of an artifact, purchased in 1926 for $22,500. It sits front and center on the stage whenever its services aren’t necessary. Today it is brought to life by Glen, one of threevol-unteer organists that often provide music in the half-hour leading up to a

show. Upon completion he exits with only the slightest affirmation of the applause he is receiving, vanishing stage right. Slowly the room fades, and the lamps dim to only the softest of red light. The walls pull away and images begin to move across the screen.

The Lincoln has been maintained through preservation and restoration, retaining it’s appearance over 88 years. Resurrected as a community arts cen-ter in the 90’s after an extended clos-ure throughout the late 80’s, it has found continued community support and development. This was highlighted yet again in 2013 after a successful drive to fund the purchase and installa-tion of the digital projector and file server needed to screen the newest films.

The lights come up, the room returns, and I remember what it actually feels like to watch a film in a theatre. Even after the bombardment of car engines, the clap of my leather soles on side-walk, the sights of an enduring down-town, the theatre still holds onto me. It’s shape may get lost in the mass of

blocky architecture, the brick and con-crete and glass that has encased every-thing in sight. But it still rests, somewhere in there, patiently waiting.

At the height of its popularity, the Lin-coln theatre transported patrons with ambiance as well as entertainment. In its latest incarnation, it continues to inspire visitors with beautiful architec-ture and carefully chosen films and stage performances. Independent films are usually shown Friday through Monday, along with high-definition broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera and National Theatre Live during the week. The Lincoln is also host to musical performances from both local and touring acts along with assorted community events.

More information can be found at www.lincolntheatre.org/home

The room hums. Surfaces are clad in deep reds, browns and black, transporting me outside of reality even before the show starts.


P O E T R Y

a bubble

For Jan

in your eyes

the goldfinch-song turns into

a streak of green dappled

sunlight

your smile spreads warmly

the goldfinch’s song

lodges in

my heart as

tiny darts

of

sungolden silken

“now”

Thom

I live lifebeautiful.

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own a dark alley in downtown Bellingham, you’ll find a delightfully warming Autumn secret: Honey Moon’s hot spiced mead. Hand crafted meads blend with house-made cider and signature mulling spices to create a beverage that immerses the senses from the moment you take it into your hand to the very last sip. The aroma is bright citrus greet-ing you like a warm summer’s day; make sure to relish a good long sniff before you delve into this full bodied draught.

Clove, cinnamon and star anise flavors from Was-sail mead and fresh mulling spices strike the palate first, then the earthy and delicate floral flavors of Lovers mead. Bitter orange peel from Orange mead balances a syrupy body and the sweetness of cider. A lingering, strong finish pleasantly warms both the belly and the cheeks. At somewhere around 10% ABV (the meads clock in at 13.5%-13.8%, and the cider at 5.9% ) you will feel the heat warming you from the inside out long after your final taste.

The Honey Moon meadery, like its hot spiced mead, is not for the faint of heart; you must go on a bit of a hunt to get there. Located in Bellingham’s burgeoning alley district, you’ll have to park your car

HONEYMOON MEAD & CIDERby: Colleen Harper

and proceed on faith (or google maps), but the extra effort only makes the mead that much sweeter. Sometimes, waterproof outerwear and woolen accessories are just not enough to ward off the penetrating damp and cold of the Northwest. On these days, a mug of hot spiced mead can warm your body while it reminds your soul that summer’s blooming flowers and honey flows promise to come again.

Where: 1053 N State Street Alley, Bellingham, Washington in the alley connecting Maple and Chestnut streets, adjacent to the Bellingham Farm-ers Market Depot.

When: 5-11 Monday-Saturday

Find more information at

www.honeymoonmeads.com

D

36

LIBATIONS

You may have noticed in the past few years microbreweries seem to be springing up all over the place. Porters, IPA’s, ESB’s, APA’s, berliner weisses, hefeweizens, altbiers, English ales, strong ales, red ales, imperial stouts, barleywines: a fledgling beer drinker is likely to drown in the midst of all these choices before they can order their first drink So what’s all the hype about? We went to the experts in the industry and asked: What does a newcomer to this endless world of options need to know to enjoy a good microbrew?

“Start with a lighter craft beer and slowly move up the food chain to the most aggressive one until you find one you like. Don’t expect that to be your favorite beer forever. Your tastes will mature and you’ll start enjoying more complex, aggressive beers.”

- Phil Bannan, owner Scuttlebutt Brewery

“Don’t start with a double IPA or an Imperial Stout. Get a sampler. Don’t be biased based on color. There are a lot of different flavors to explore. Have fun!”

- Brian Cardwell, Head Brewer, Chuckanut Brewery

“There is a huge range of flavors in beer. Spend some time sampling a wide range of styles to find what you like.”

- Justin Bajema, Certified Cicerone and a BJCP National Beer Judge.

“Let Loose! Every brewery is different- there really is something for every taste bud. The spectrum of hoppyness and lightness and maltiness is wide. You have to step out of your comfort zone.”

- Casey Diggs, Operations Manager Boundary Bay Brewery

by: Anna Minkler

You won’t know what you do (and don’t) like until you try! Malt forward beers will tend to be mellower, while hop forward beers showcase bitter-ness. There are sour beers, mellow beers, nutty beers, and fruity beers. If you just want a fizzy, light, refreshing beer, a pilsner or a hefeweizen will do the trick. Micro beer is as diverse in fla-vors and characteristics as wine. You might like a bright fruity Zinfandel, but hate a dry, oaky Chardonnay. Just because you don’t enjoy one micro beer, does not mean you will not enjoy another. Be adventurous, and ask your bartender or server questions; they will be happy to share their knowledge. Cheers!

38

by Stacy Reynolds

t’s hard to find a place that isn’t “hooked in” to the hub and the buzz of our net-worked society. It’s hard to get away from being connected to the present moment of the rest of the world. For me, it can get in the way of vacations. I bring all the busy and distracting parts of life with me—my phone, my lap-top—that inevitably become a tether to all the things I wanted a vacation from in the first place. How can you truly enjoy a “getaway” if you can’t get away?

It starts with a mansion on an island.

Orcas Island, to be exact. It’s an incred-ible piece of nature nestled in the San

Juan archipelago. Sloping forests are separated by rolling fields. The agricul-tural sea towns of Orcas Island are completely removed from the pace of the rest of the world. It’s an island-wide attitude.

You know you are getting close to the Moran estate when the landscape starts to change. The wild beauty slowly shifts to thoughtfully kept grounds, building anticipation of some-thing beautiful the closer you get to the Mansion. A grassy roundabout sur-rounded by an impossibly large ship chain pulls your eye up to an incredible building that looks like a ship, ready to pull out to sea. It’s once copper roof,

I


The wild beauty slowly shifts to thoughtfully kept grounds, building anticipation of something beautiful the closer you get to the Mansion.

now sea green with patina, caps plas-ter white walls with porthole windows at the top. The building is grand, and yet simple in nature.

Moran Mansion was built in the first decade of the 20th century by Seattle Shipbuilder and Mayor Robert Moran. The main building, now a museum, showcases historic photos from the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, as well as a collection of ships built by the Moran Brothers Company and exquisite ori-ginal architecture. The building is alive with history.

The Mansion overlooks the East Sound, and while immense, it’s impact on the environment feels natural. Harmony between art and nature is part of the essence of what makes Moran Man-sion so special. Robert Moran was very passionate about creating a space that celebrated the craftsmanship of man while respecting the beauty of nature. You can see it in the small details of the mansion: the large, yet simple, mahog-any doors hanging on hinges only found in large vessels, or the windowed views of nature that hang on the wall like pieces of art.

The Moran Estate is a fully functioning resort, complete with an incredible res-taurant, lounge, spa, and a variety of outdoor amenities. Enjoy brunch or din-ner created from local and farm fresh foods by a world class chef with a stun-ning view of the Cascade Bay. Swim in either the family or adult pools, play a game of tennis, or relax in their high end spa. If you are adventure minded, Moran State Park right next door has acres of wilderness and miles of trails. In the 1930’s, the army corp of engin-eers build an impressive observation tower at the top of Mount Constitution. Climb to the top, and you will experi-ence breathtaking 360 degree views of the Canadian Rockies, Cascade Moun-tain range, and the entire San Juan archipelago.

40

I finished out my night with the best Manhattan I have ever tasted. Rosario blends, casks, and ages signature bour-bon blends in house. Every cocktail on the menu was interesting and well thought out. Speaking with the bar-tender, I learned more about bourbon than I could have imagined there was to know. The lounge was cozy and chic, like a good friends living room, with a relaxed and fun atmosphere. I was con-tinually impressed with the knowledge and service of the staff, and the perme-ating ambiance of the building itself.

Did I mention there’s no reception?

Really, there isn’t any once you reach the grounds. Not even a weak signal. While they do have free wireless inter-net, the absence of data at my finger-tips was the tipping point that made my experience so incredible. There were no distractions. Nothing to break the spell cast by Rosario. I was completely immersed in the history of the building and the beauty of nature, and forgot that I had left the rest of the world at home. I was truly on vacation.


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IMAGINE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

46

In historic downtown Everett, WA, an hour and a half south of the Peace Arch on US I-5, and only five minutes from Seattle Premium Outlets and Tulalip Casino, Imagine Children’s Museum offers fun, educational hands-on exhib-its perfect for the growing minds of 1- to12-year-olds.

Imagine’s web site provides a virtual tour of their 3700+ m2 (40,000+ ft2) of displays on three levels. The toughest decision for my twin ten-year-olds was where to go first. “The Wildlife Clinic and Piccolo Italian Café are among our most popular exhibits,” says Business Manager LynnDee Blair. The Clinic teaches about injured, orphaned, and contaminated animals through wildlife puppets, x-rays, lab coats, and a work-ing microscope. In Piccolo’s, adults become the customers while kids cook, concierge, and serve pretend cuisine.

“The Lodge Exhibit is a parent favor-ite,” says Marketing Manager Kimber-lee Valvick. “Its interactive exhibits connect play to real life situations. Kids learn creatively while taking away new skills that parents appreciate.” On the day of our visit The Lodge was staged for camping with blanket teepees, a boat launch, and a building area with meter-length Lincoln Logs. “Dad’s love this area and the Construction Zone,” says Valvick.

My super-hubby, Mike Duryee, played with our boys for over an hour in the Construction Zone and Art Studio on the Lower Level, which also includes an eating area. “I like that you bring your own food and drink instead of pay-ing movie-theatre prices for junk food,” says Duryee.

Creative Outlets:“The Lower Level is ever changing,” says Valvick. “We bring in guest artists, speakers, and storytellers for interactive learning and fun in our classrooms and Art Studio.” The Studio features a craft activity that changes daily, often using recycled/repurposed materials. “We like to tie our activity to special days on the cal-endar,” says Valvick. We went on Can-ada Day and made Thread Spool Beavers from paper, spools, pom poms, and markers. Tuesday Tales events also showcase a guest chil-dren’s author and related craft project.

My boys also enjoyed the interactive Music Exhibit, composing their own electronic percussion pieces by pass-ing their hands through light beams. The large Rooftop Rhythms xylo-phone collection will also satisfy your young musician.

The Theatre Exhibit, with a stage and capes, was a hit with my little per-former. He ate up the instant feedback from the closed-circuit TV. Even my guy with stage fright experimented behind the scenes with the kid-friendly lighting and sound.

Wee Ones: Imagine is prepared for tiny ones too. A separate seashore-themed toddler area provides safe play for the three and under set. Multiple large family restrooms are spread throughout the museum, and they’ve considered cleanliness as well. “All toys and sur-faces are sanitized daily,” says Blair.

There are also several exhibits just right for younger visitors. Rise and Shine Farm includes a real tractor, ready-to-ride saddle, and a life-size milkable cow. The Airline Exhibit allows your little one to become pilot, passenger, or flight attendant.

The train lover in your family (young or old) will enjoy the Everett & Monte Cristo Railroad Exhibit with information about Everett railroad investors and founders Charles Colby and Colgate Hoyt alongside an enclosed electric train set and hands-on wooden railway.

The Air Maze, an intricate system of tubes, blows colorful scarves high into the air at toddler speed, while PJ’s Place provides a quieter escape for a quick read of a children’s book.

Rambunctious?: There is nothing sedate about this museum. The rooftop Tall Timbers Lookout is a safe but expan-sive play structure to wear out your wild child before that car ride home. The Dino Dig exhibit was newly refur-bished this summer and allows young archaeologists to excavate fossils and play among dinosaur skeletons.

Getting There: Imagine is easily reached via US I-5 from the Peace Arch just 140 km (87 miles) south, only a couple of turns off Exit 194 Everett Avenue. There is free on-street 90-minute park-ing or $3 for three hours or after 6 PM ($8 all day) at the adjacent parking gar-age on Colby Avenue. An elevator is available upon request for disabled access and stroller parking is just inside the entrance.

Special Events: There are a host of regu-lar and onetime special events coming up. The museum’s new Water Exhibit opens October 4th and will coincide with their annual Harvest Festival. Popu-lar Free Friday Night Live events fall on the third Friday of each month, with three and a half hours of fun at no cost.

Imagine has two birthday rooms for your special day, plus on-site Discovery Camps, Summer Camps, and school outreach programs that keep 639 vol-unteers, several interns, and a highly trained staff of educators busy through-out the year.

The exit through the gift shop wasn’t painful either, providing the usual along-side wildlife puppets and a solid collec-tion of science educational kits. I appreciated that we went on a week-day, with lighter crowds. After running full steam for two and a half hours, my boys still didn’t want to leave. Imagine Children’s Museum is sure to nourish creativity in kids and parents alike.


Imgaine Children’s Museum1502 Wall StreetEverett, WA 98201

425-258-1006

imaginecm.org

A Curse, a Kiss and Magic!

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e stopped at the Train Wreck Bar & Grill for breakfast in Burlington, WA on our way east to the gorgeous North Cas-cade National Park. It’s an odd shaped brick building, long and narrow, stand-ing alone next to the train tracks on Fairhaven Ave, just a few blocks off Highway 20. I knew immediately that we had chosen a great breakfast venue: most of the tables were full of comfort-able looking locals at 10am on a Wed-nesday morning. The interior is casual and clean, with exposed brick and beautifully finished wood tables sup-ported by natural form stumps.

We got coffee first, and when I men-tioned how good it was to our server Heidi she explained that they roast it themselves, just down the road. I ordered a Monte Cristo and my com-panion ordered smoked beef brisket

hash and a side of biscuits and gravy. My Monte Cristo was a twist on the classic, with three slices of French toast, grilled ham, Swiss cheese and two eggs cooked to order inside. I usually prefer my Monte Cristos fried whole in French toast batter, but the strawberry chili and mango mojo dip-ping sauces more than made up for that deviation from tradition. The smoked brisket hash was delicious too, with caramelized onions, peppers, and hand cut potatoes, and the biscuits were clearly made from scratch. I eye-balled a “train wreck” Bloody Mary on its way to another lucky customer, it was a quart mason jar, with skewers of vegetables, breakfast sliders, and other goodies protruding out in all directions like a breakfast bouquet. If I wasn’t already stuffed, I may have ordered one for myself.

THE TRAIN WRECK BAR & GRILL

Wby Marisa Papetti

50

We enjoyed our breakfast so much, that on our way back down from the mountains, we stopped in again to get a look at the dinner menu, and share some appetizers. The place was

packed, and we were lucky to grab two stools at the bar. We ordered bacon wrapped, cream cheese stuffed jala-penos, Dungeness crab shooters with horseradish cocktail sauce, and buffalo style ‘wings’ that were actually sauce coated popcorn style chicken. We chose beers from a great tap selection of local and regional microbrews and chatted up the bar manager Molly

(when we could grab her attention for a few seconds amidst the chaos of a packed bar.) Molly informed us that, in addition to roasting their own coffee, the Train Wreck bakes all of their own

breads, smokes their own meat, and actively supports community events and organizations.

These guys are not messing around. The food is excellent, locally sourced when possible, prepared in house (no flash-frozen mozzarella sticks here) and served beautifully in an unpretentious and welcoming atmosphere.

We enjoyed our breakfast so much, that on our way back down from the mountains, we stopped in again to get a look at the dinner menu, and share some appetizers.

Important note: This is a bar, and is only open to patrons 21 and up at all hours of the day.

427 East Fairhaven Ave Burlington, WA 98233

www.trainwreckbar.com

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52

One of our favourite spots, hit it up after a long day of boarding or just to get out of the cold. While lively Led Zepplin fills the air, a dancing Vicki Savage hands you a pint of small batch micro brew and a mouthwatering slab of New York style pizza. 6186 Mt. Baker Highway, Deming, WA - 360-599-BEER

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SEMIAHMOO RESORT: RE-MODELED, RE-INVIGORATED & RE-INSPIREDby Megs Thompson

54

teering my Volvo along Semiahmoo Parkway, the thin strip of pavement separating Semiahmoo Bay from the somewhat calmer waters of Drayton Harbor, I’m always struck by the simple natural beauty of this place I call home. It serves as a yellow brick road of sorts, leading from the real world into the wondrous and magical world of Oz, or in our case, Washing-ton’s Seaside Retreat, the Semiahmoo Resort.

Making my way around the circular drive and into the parking lot I could tell already that calling the resorts recent renova-tions a “face-lift” was short-selling the amazing work that’s been completed, and in some places, is still in the process. (I was told there were crews on site at all times, working silently behind the scenes to swap new furniture pieces in for the old, and replacing the existing carpet with a deep blue hued design made from recycled fishing nets. I can honestly say that I saw only one workman, and heard nothing my entire stay.)

Already, the resorts new owners, Wright Hotels, Inc. have spent over $9 million dollars completely renovating the locally adored Packers Oyster Bar, as well as creating a brand new restaurant, Pierside Kitchen, whose focus is on bringing fresh ingredients and succulent flavors from our local farms, directly to the table, or fork. (Is it just me, or does the phrase “Farm to Fork” sound much catchier than the more common “Farm to Table?”)

From my first step inside the lobby, I was impressed by the absolute delight of every employee I encountered. They not only exuded confidence and pride in their resort, but also an irrepressible admiration for the management and new owners and their unwavering devotion to transforming the Semiahmoo Resort into the luxury destination and venue it’s meant to be.

I spent my afternoon feeling much like a carefree slug after receiving the most relaxing and intense massage I have ever experienced. It was obvious I was in amazingly capable hands, and it took all of my willpower to move from my pri-vate treatment room back towards the relaxation area for fresh lemon water, and into the sauna to further melt away any remaining stress or tension.

In an attempt to wake myself back up, not fully, but at least enough to carry on a conversation, I made my way into Pack-ers Oyster Bar and had the pleasure of meeting its resident

S


barkeep, DJ Riemers. A true magician behind the bar, Riemers’ current cock-tail menu features a variety of creative drinks named for songs by the uniquely eccentric Tom Waits. I enjoyed the gin based “Hell Broke Luce” (delicious) as well as their most popular beverage, “Hoist That Rag,” a well shaken com-bination of basil vodka, lemon, rose-mary simple syrup, and cucumber juice.

Mixmaster Riemers (his official title is Beverage Director) also invited me to sample one of his newest creations, the “Cyclops,” which will be appearing alongside a handful of other X-Men themed beverages on the forthcoming fall cocktail menu. Describing the Cyclops with actual words (as opposed to sound effects of an agreeable nature) is not an easy task. Each sip is packed with the essence of fall; the spices, the crispness of the weather, and the com-fort found in a thick pair of socks while

lounging beside a crackling fire. I joked (all right, I wasn’t really joking) with Mr. Riemers about a scheme to bring a few friends along on my next visit, smug-gling pumpkins in our handbags, to carve while sipping a round or two of Cyclops’, responsibly of course.

Bellying up to the beautiful bar in the Pierside Kitchen, I conversed with the chefs as they skillfully prepared every-thing from cedar plank salmon, to hali-but and artichokes within their woodfire oven (not just for pizza anymore). I was unable to decide between the Ciop-

pino, made from fresh Penn Cove mus-sels, manila clams, chorizo, jumbo prawns, and a perfectly spiced sauce of tomato, bell pepper, saffron, garlic, shallots, and rouille aioli cooked to per-fection, and the Chorizo Prawn Pizza, topped with fresh tomato, arugula, and

extra virgin olive oil (two of the kitchens best sellers.) Thankfully, I was treated to an absolutely taste bud tingling degustation menu, allowing me to sample 7 of the kitchens impeccable dishes, as well as an array of wine and

From my first step inside the lobby, I was impressed by the absolute delight of every employee I encountered. They not only exuded confidence and pride in their resort, but also an irrepressible admiration for the management and new owners.

56

spirits that were paired so perfectly with each course that I found myself questioning if Christopher, my palates tour guide through the meal, was actually reading my mind.

Midway through the meal, I was encouraged to make my way out onto the deck and experience what can only be described as a stupefying end of summer sunset. I was told later that every night, many of the dinner guests leave their tables, and return to their meals only once the show is over.

Many of the existing buildings that make up the Semiahmoo Resort, which first opened in 1986, date back to the early 1900’s when the location was the Alaska Packers Assoc. Cannery. It’s hard to imagine, until you see the pic-tures, how the phenomenal destination resort that now boasts 212 luxurious yet comforting guest rooms and suites, once housed an array of new-fangled

(at the time of course), specially designed fish cleaning machines, as well as countless women who spent long days packing the thousands of pounds of salmon that were hauled in.

The Semiahmoo Resort is a spacious venue situated in what I believe to be the perfect location, surrounded on three sides by water, with breathtaking views of Point Roberts and White Rock, BC, as well as numerous local wildlife including porpoises, blue her-ons, orcas on occasion, and most recently a newborn seal pup, too young yet to open his eyes. The Resort at Semiahmoo really is the premier full-service Northwest destination for weekend getaways, company meet-ings, weddings, golfing, and exploring the natural beauty that surrounds us.

For More Info, visit:

www.semiahmoo.com


am sitting atop a camel, riding in a sur-prisingly smooth gliding motion, gazing towards the horizon, where I see six camels scattered across my field of vision. The sun is beaming down, it is verging on hot, and I peer into the dis-tance to see… what is most decidedly not the Gobi Desert. No, I am in What-com County, looking out towards white-capped Mt. Baker, and being regaled on the history, habits and fine points of camels, dromedaries and other ungulates.

I am at Camel Safari, started and run by Guy Seeklus: a man with a mission,

boundless enthusiasm and 25 or so camels. When his young daughter wanted an alpaca, he researched them, and on the way to that decision, found himself fascinated with the Bactrian camel. This led to a farm in Whatcom County filled with the delightful crea-tures, a tiny room filled with vintage camel saddles from all over the world, and one of the most unusual attrac-tions in the area.

Camels get a bad rap: lots of stories feature their bad temper, spitting and kicking. However, at Camel Safari, I saw nothing of the like. However, as I

THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT CAMELSBy Ramona Abbott

I

58

walked around the (wonderfully clean and tidy) barns, I did clearly hear Chewbacca’s roar. Turns out that a camel was one of the many animal sounds amalgamated as parts of Chewbacca’s “speech.” In fact, one of the denizens of the farm is named after that famous Wookie.

Native to the steppes of Central Asia, the Bactrian is classified as critically endangered, with an estimated popula-tion of less than a thousand truly wild remaining. Far more exist as domes-ticated animals.

Here are some of the fun facts I learned about camels:

Having trouble remembering which ani-mal (dromedary or camel) has one hump or two? Turn the initial letter on its side: Dromedaries have one; Bac-trian camels have two.

Camels do not store water specifically in their humps. The humps are filled with fat, so a well-nourished camel will have plump, erect humps. As resour-ces decline, the camel will lose weight and girth all over, and the humps will fall over to the side.

THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT CAMELS

A wild Bactrian camel can live up to 50 years. In captivity, they typically live 20-40 years.

Their long eyelashes and sealable nos-trils help keep out sand and dust from the sandstorms in their native areas.

When truly thirsty, they can drink up to 15 gallons in a go, and fast!

While they are primarily herbivorous, they can eat virtually anything, including rope and very thorny items. (Their mouths are lined with special protection against such things, so no harm comes


to them if they eat, say, Himalayan black-berries or the like. I was tempted to ask if I could rent some to clear my property.)

They love, love, love carrots, and will nib-ble them ever-so-gently from your hand.

They have a bifurcated (split) upper lip which feels like soft velvet when they do so.

They shed in the most bizarre pattern you’ve ever seen, with entire panels of fur

peeling off at once. This again resembles something out of a Star Wars film. In fact, I left Camel Safari quite convinced George Lucas had spent some quality time with camels before he wrote his opus.

Due to their resource-poor natural environ-ments, camels are all about saving energy

and effort. They have what resemble hard calluses on each of their legs as well as another one under their belly, where each area typically rests on the ground. This protects them and makes it comfy in a variety of climates, particularly snow, where they prevent the body mass from getting too cold. Whatever the weather extreme, they can sit in one place com-fortably and nibble on whatever’s within reach – whether grass, or snow.

Riding a camel is a delightful surprise. Camel Safari provides an easy stair arrangement to make getting on and off very simple. Their gait is like a horse, if a horse sailed more smoothly across the land. It’s almost a glide, and it is both relaxing and comfortable.

I am in Whatcom County, looking out towards white-capped Mt. Baker, and being regaled on the history, habits and fine points of camels, dromedaries and other ungulates.

Camel SafariCall 800-836-4036 or visit them at CamelSafari.com to find out more about how you can meet these inquisitive, friendly crea-tures and ride a camel without having to fly to Egypt!

camelsafari.com

WhatcomArtistStudioTour 2014

20@Opening the studio doors of Whatcom County artists for twenty years.

Come see where creativity begins...

First 2 weekends in October Oct. 4,5 & 11,12

www.studiotour.net facebook.com/WhatcomArtistStudioTour

Opening Reception at the Jansen Art CenterThursday October 2, 6-8pm

Artwork displayed from October 2 - December 15

An Exhibit at the Book Fare CaféArtwork displayed from September 1 - September 27

The more studios you visit the greater your chance to win a piece of artwork!


P O E T R YPenelopeby Greg Lane

Stand here betwixt you and me

I see both Sundays spread on Wednesday

Let’s eat up the dreams, Penelope

We’re looking for the eighth day and

running with ghost seals

Standing here betwixt you and me

let’s eat up the dreams, Penelope

I see both Sundays

This place without definition and all connotation

the sea of our decade-long dance

Mute to song, mute to song

I got tiny white crabs swimming in my head,

Ohhhhh Penelope!

When we going to find the eighth day?

Come with me, Penelope

Let’s go break masons in the alley where

pieces of our song float with pedals and toenails

Pedals and toenails

We’ll smash from here to both Sundays,

crushing the place betwixt you and me

Oh…Penelope

Penelope

Penelope

Penelope!

I got pygmy whales falling from our yellow sky

I see both Sundays

Standing in the dive with a 40 and a

malfunctioning power converter

Call me a scruffy nerf herder, Penelope!!!

Eighth day, eighth day




I see both Sundays

Set sail with me Penelope and

eat dreams on the bow

Watch them drip

Watch them drip

Watch them drrrriiipppp

Blue, Yellow, Red—these are the sounds

of eating dreams, Penelope!

Models Northwest• Model & Talent Management

• Bookings • Workshops

• Fashion Productions • Event Coordination

360-305-0106

114 W Magnolia St, St 506

Bellingham, WA 98225

www.models-northwest.com

Photography by: Courtney Bowlden (top)Oveth Martinez (middle) • Maegan Hay Imaging (bottom)


D A T E N I G H T

Summer’s long walks and romantic beach lounging sessions have passed, and suddenly planning a date, with a new crush or an old flame, becomes a little more challenging. Never fear, Date Night has you covered. We plan perfect dates, so you don’t have to! You’ll want to buy your tickets in advance for this date, as shows often sell out in this intimate theater. For current shows and tickets, along with more Idiom Theater information, go to www.idiomtheater.com or find them on Facebook. Also look for weekly listings in the Cascadia Weekly and the Bellingham Herald’s Take 5. The Idiom Theater is nestled down the hallway between the Pickford Limelight Cinema and Allied Arts at 1418 Cornwall Avenue.

On a cozy fall night in Bellingham, tak-ing a stroll downtown is reminiscent of an autumn eve in New York City - pro-vided you have enough imagination to fantasize you are a block away from the tallest of tall skyscrapers and bustling taxi traffic. Start your date by parking downtown; there is metered street parking all over, but Railroad Ave has the highest concentrations. Metered parking is free in downtown Bellingham after 5pm, and all day weekends. Leave your vehicle behind and you can wan-der around the heart of downtown, peeking in shop windows and enjoying the fall colors of the many street side planters and maple trees. If you planned an extra 30-45 minutes before the show, head next door to Chocolate Necessities (1426 Cornwall Ave) where

you can enjoy a warm and delightful mug of drinking chocolate, a dish of house-made gelato, or purchase truf-fles to enjoy during the show.

With an unassuming single door entrance off Cornwall Avenue, the Idiom Theater is a hidden gem, full of local independent creativity, from the comical to the dramatic, and is a great spot for a dose of the intellectual. The Idiom Theater began its 10th season at the end of August 2012. Self-pro-claimed “the hardest working theater in the known world,” the theater has provided the community with a healthy mix of locally written material since it was founded in 2001. With shows almost every weekend, the theater is home to works by local performers, collaborators and writers. The Idiom has limited seating in an elevated half circle around the stage. There are no bad seats in this playhouse: each audi-ence member will be able to clearly see and hear the actors from any seat.

A great compliment to any night of quality local theater is a classic cocktail. Or two. The Temple Bar, with a classy candle-lit atmosphere, is an intimate, beautiful bar made for quiet conversa-tions. There is no need to drive over and struggle with finding a new parking spot, just head on foot a few blocks to 306 Champion St. They offer a delect-able, locally-sourced and seasonally rotating food menu, including items such as daily gratin specials, small plates, tasty grilled sandwiches, meat

DOW NTOW N B E LL INGH A Mby Marisa Papetti

Chocolate Necessities/Idiom Theater/Temple Bar: A dramatic date for artists, eccentrics and romantics

and cheese plates and delicious desserts. I suggest ordering a series of hors d’ourves, including a cheese or antipasto plate. What could be more romantic than nib-bling decadent snacks off of a shared plate while you discuss interpretations of the nights performance?

Temple Bar offers a plethora of fancy cocktails and an excellent wine list. The ever-evolving wine list has a quality selection of red, white and rosé from around the world with something for everyone. There is also a well-rounded selection of bottled beer, including local favorite Boundary Bay Brewery’s IPA, Stella Artois and a Canadian brewed Belgian-style Unibroue Maudite, to name a few. As far as cocktails go, some choices worth mentioning are the French 75, a light and bubbly gin cocktail; the Sally Tomato, a spinoff of a Bloody Mary with house infused roasted vegetable and jalapeno vodka; and Sam’s whiskey sour, a bourbon classic with a twist of fresh citrus and brown sugar. Daily happy hour is another Temple Bar perk, every day from 11am to 7pm and all day Sunday (from 3pm to close), offering an affordable bottle of wine or bubbly and cheese plate for $15, $2.50 Stella beer and a $1 off house cocktails. Temple Bar’s happy hour has been voted the best in Bellingham four years in a row by Cascadia Weekly readers.

Total Date Costs:

Chocolate Necessities: $10-$15 USD for two drinking chocolates or gelatos and a few truffles for the show.

Idiom theater: tickets range from $10-$20 per show, so expect to pay about $30 USD for two tickets

Temple Bar: Two cocktails and cheese/antipasto plate $50 USD (gratuity added)

Total date budget: $100 (you’ll have enough for a second round of cocktails if you wish) Treating your companion to a night of local culture, intelligent discus-sion, decadent treats, and world class cocktails? Price-less.

Do you have a great date to recommend?

email: [email protected]

The North ForK

Beer Shrine, Brewery, Pizzeria, Wedding Chapel

and Power Station

6186 Mt. Baker Hwy at Milepost 21 Beautiful Suburban Deming

360-599-BEER (2337)

'Nuff Said'


B O O K S

You know her from Little Women, but who knew that Alcott wrote roman-tic-Gothic-thrillers? This story follows the young and innocent Rosamond as she is swept away, betrayed and stalked by her first love. Written two years before Little Women this story is an odd yet fulfilling mixture of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights; but with the fast pace of an All-American action story. It is easy and addictive to read, and the characters are relatable, com-plex and believable.

It is a wonderfully dark story, shock-ingly told by the usually wholesome Alcott, and an interesting read for its disparity with her stories.

*This title went unpublished in Alcott’s time because it was not suitable for the public due to “sensual” content.

Perfect for fans of gothic novels like The Bronte’s and Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca.

Revival Read: A Long Fatal Love Chase

by Louisa May Alcott

66

Known for her history books Sin In The Second City and American Rose, Abbott returns to tackle females under-cover during the American Civil War. The book is about four women, two confederates and two unionists, doing different jobs to help serve their side of the war. The women do everything from spying, and misleading, to dis-guising themselves to serve as sol-diers.

Abbott weaves exciting, and readable true stories from the Civil War using never before published primary sources along with interviews with the women’s descendents. I loved that there was not the constant repeat of information, as happens often in history books. The book was fast pace, interesting, and different, my only concern is that the title is too “Tinker, Tailor” and will dis-suade serious Civil War readers.

Readers who liked Confederates in the Attic, and Clare Mulley’s The Spy Who Loved.

The third book in the Dragonslayer Ser-ies “The Eye of Zoltar” comes out October 7th, which gives new readers plenty of time to catch up on this ser-ies, which is quite frankly a delight. This is one of those rare series that crosses all age boundaries. The tales protagon-ist is a teen, and the stories are clean and full of adventure, interesting char-acters, laughs and just a brief smatter-ing of romance. I would recommend this book to kids 10-110. Fforde brings his humor to a world full of magic, with dragons, witches, and quests (but don’t call it a quest, because the Quest Council is full of red tape, and the pro-tagonist does not have the money for the fees, so let’s just call it a vacation!).

Best for Readers who like Terry Pratchett, Eoin Colfer, J. K. Rowling, or Rick Riordan

“But how can you have a sense of wonder if you are prepared for every-thing?”

Margaret Atwood is back in all her glory with a new collection of nine short stories. Her last short stories collection was published back in 2006, and she has saved up a few doozies! Mostly set in Canada, these short stories pull together mystery, suspense, romance, betrayal and fantasy to make tales that are edgy, interesting, and often inter-woven, always with a lyrical prose.

My one complaint about the book is the layout of the stories. This reviewer received an advance readers copy of the collection, and I hope that they do some shuffling of the stories for a bet-ter flow before the book is released- September 11

Best for those who like Margaret Atwood, Alice Munro, Ian McEwan, or Ursula K. Le Guin

NonFiction: Liar, Temptress, Soldier,Spy by Karen Abbott

Kids: The Last Dragonslayer Seriesby: Jasper Fforde

Fiction: Stone Mattressby: Margaret Atwood


Navigating The IslandsGetting around the islands in the Pacific Northwest may seem a little daunting at first: did you know some of these islands you can actually drive to? Here’s a handy little guide to help you plan your next Island adventure.

How to RideThere are three ways to ride the ferry: drive-on, bike-on, and walk-on.

Prices scale up depending on vessel size, duration, and mode of transportation. If you are planning a day of walking or biking during your visit, leaving your car at the terminal will save you a vehicle surcharge.

Oversized VehiclesYour vehicle doesn’t need to be large to be considered “oversized.” If you are travelling with bikes, kayaks, or any storage container on top of your car, you could be consider an oversized vehicle, and charged accordingly. If you can, make sure to store your bikes on the back of your car, as over-length charges are easier to avoid.

For more information on rules for oversized vehicles, loading procedures, and general information visit: www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/infodesk/faq/general_info/

CurrencyAll ferries in Washington State DO NOT accept Canadian cur-rency. While most credit and debit cards are accepted, it would be prudent to bring U.S. cash to simplify your trip.

Getting to Camano IslandCamano Island is accessible via Highway 532 in Stanwood, WA. It’s an easy quick drive—about an hour and 15 minutes from the border via I-5 South—making it the easiest island to visit.

From Canada: Via I-5 South, take exit 221 and continue to WA-532 West. Follow signs to Camano Island.

From Seattle: Via I-5 North, take exit 212, and continue onto WA-532 West. Follow signs to Camano Island.

Getting to Whidbey IslandThis Island is accessible via ferry and car, depending on where you’re coming from. If you are travelling from Canada, driving is recommended even if you are travelling to the

most southern point of Whidbey Island as ferry wait-times can affect your travel time.

From Canada: From I-5 South, take exit 230 toward Burling-ton. You’ll be taking WA-20 West all the way to the island, crossing Deception Pass. There are incredible views along the way; driving there is a getaway in itself.

From Canada (Ferry Option): From I-5 South, take exit 189 toward Mukilteo/Everett, and follow signs for WA-526 West/Whidbey Island Ferry.

From Seattle: From I-5 North, take exit 182 toward Mukilteo/Everett. Follow signs for WA-525 North all the way to the ferry terminal.

Quick Facts:• Ferries depart every 30 minutes

• US cash, US checks, and all major credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and Amer-ican Express

• Vehicles over 228.6 cm in height will be consider oversized

• Parking lots available for ferry passengers (daily, weekly, and/or monthly rates, apply)

Website: www.wsdot.com/ferries/schedule/scheduledetailbyroute.aspx?route=muk-cl

Insider’s Tip: If you are planning our Ebey State Biking Getaway on page 42, then this is your route!

Getting to Lummi IslandThis island is only accessible via the Lummi Island Ferry in Bellingham, WA.

From Canada: Via I-5 South, take exit 260 and follow signs for Lummi Island.

From Seattle: Via I-5 North, take exit 260 and follow signs for Lummi Island.

Quick Facts:• Short ride: under a 10 minute ride

• Runs every 20 minutes on weekdays (every hour on weekends)

• Kids under 19 ride free!

• US cash, US checks, and credits with a Visa, Mastercard, and Discover logo are accepted (American Express is not accepted)

Website: www.co.whatcom.wa.us/publicworks/ferry/index.jsp

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Other Useful Links:Ferry Cams: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/vesselwatch/CameraDetail.aspx

Getting to Orcas, San Juan, and Lopez Islands

Accessing the San Juan Islands requires a ferry ride from Anacortes, WA.

From Canada: From I-5 South, take exit 230, and continue on WA-20 West

From Seattle: From I-5 North, take exit 226 for WA-536 West, and continue on to WA-20 West

Quick Facts:• Ferry ride times vary from 30 minutes, to one hour,

depending on your destination.

• Discounted fares for Children 6 – 18 years old

• Vehicles over 228.6 cm in height will be consider oversized

• Parking lots available for ferry passengers (daily, weekly, and/or monthly rates, apply)

• US cash, US checks, and all major credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and Amer-ican Express

Website: www.wsdot.com/ferries/schedule/ScheduleDetailByRoute.aspx?route=ana-sj

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons


Your Guide for Easy CrossingCrossing the border can be a stressful event if you’re not armed with the proper information. Keeping track of the numerous rules and regulations can be a bit over-whelming. We can help with that. Below we’ve condensed important need-to-know information into one spot for quick, easy plan-ning of your next trip across the border.

Conversion Chart

United States customary units - Metric system

• 1 inch - 2.54 cm

• 1 foot - .3 meters (1 meter is just a bit longer than what we call a yard)

• 1 mile - About 1.6 km

• 1 ounce - 28.35 g

• 1 pound - .45 kg (1 kilogram is a little over 2 pounds)

• 1 fluid ounce - 29.57 millilitres

• 1 pint - .47 kilolitres (a little over 2 pints to 1 kilolitre)

• 1 gallon - 3.785 litres

• 30 miles per hour - 48.3 kilometers per hour



• 60 miles per hour, or mph - 96.5 kilometers per hour

Quick tip! Here’s some easy math you can do in your head for an approximate temperature:

• Fahrenheit to Celsius: Subtract 30 from the current temperature, and divide by 2.

• Celsius to Fahrenheit: Multiply the temperature by

2, and then add 30.

Common Local Practices• For establishments that offer a tip line on your

receipt (i.e. restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, taxis, etc.), 15% is considered fair gratuity. 20% is even better.

• When you’re driving, the left lane of the road is commonly called the “fast lane,” or the “passing lane.” Use this lane to pass slow moving traffic.

• Chip bank cards (i.e. Interact) are not commonly accepted at many local shops in the states. How-ever, debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard logo are accepted—same goes for major credit cards.

• Using cash is the best way to avoid international fees/charges that can incur with debit or credit card use.

• Roaming charges for your phone can quickly add up. Contact your mobile provider at home for travelling data plans.

Coming Home: What To Declare Going From the U.S. To Canada

Exemptions

Absence less than 24 hours:

No personal exemptions for same-day crossing

Absence 24 hrs-48 hrs:

You can claim up to CAN $200 without paying duty. You must have the goods with you, and tobacco and alcohol aren't included.

Absence 48 hrs+

You can claim up to CAN $800 without paying duty. You must have the goods with you. Tobacco and alcohol is allotted to a certain amount, depending on your prov-ince.

Absence 7 days+

You can claim up to CAN $800 without paying duty. You must have tobacco and alcohol products with you, but anything other than these can arrive later by mail. Minimum duty may apply to tobacco products.

Allowances

Alcohol:

You may bring:

• 1.5 litres of wine (about 2 750-ml bottles)

• 1.14 litres of spirits (one large standard bottle)

• 8.5 litres of beer (about 24 cans)*

*Approximately 4 Growlers of beer is 7.58 litres

Tobacco:• 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams (7 ounces) of

manufactured tobacco, and 200 tobacco sticks

Currency:

You must report any amount of currency greater than or equal to CAN $10,000

70

Foods, Plants and Agriculture:

Certain foods are not allowed because they pose a health risk. For a complete list of allowable foods, see the appendix at the bottom of this guide.

Jewellery:

Because jewellery is often very valuable, and can be difficult to identify, you should travel with as little as possible. If you plan to purchase jewellery, check with the most recent Canadian regulations first.

Restrictions

Partial list:• Cultural property

• Explosives, fireworks, and ammunition

• Banned firearms and weapons (switch blades, silencers, replica firearms, etc.)

• Prohibited consumer products (baby walkers, infant self-feeding devices, jequirity beans and items containing them, lawn darts with elongated tips, etc.)

• Certain items, like strollers and car seats, that fail to meet regulation. Visit beaware.gc.ca for more information.

What Food, Plant, Animal and Related Products can I bring into Canada?

This is an abbreviated list of commonly imported food, animal and plant products you can declare. For changes, and more detailed information, contact the CFIA National Import Service Centre (NISC).

Animal fat or suet• up to 20 kilograms per person

Baked goods, candies, etc.• no goods containing meat

• up to 20 kilograms per person

Conifers and garden plants• restricted

Dairy products (e.g. cheese, milk, yogurt, butter)• up to 20 kilograms per person with a value of $20

or less

Bellingham Airport Amtrak

BC Ferries Blue Cab

Bolt Bus Greyhound

Skagit Bus Lines Snohomish Bus Lines

WSDOT Whatcom Bus Lines

Yellow Cab The Crossing Guide


Fish and seafood• up to 20 kilograms per person

• all species except

°pufferfish °Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)

Flowers: cut• restrictions on coniferous foliage/green cones

• must not be for propagation

There may be some restrictions depending on the type of flowers and where they come from. Use the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) to con-firm if a specific item is allowed.

Fruits and vegetables, including herbs: dried• up to 15 packages per person

• but not more than 250 kilograms

Fruits and vegetables, including herbs: frozen or canned

• fruits

°up to 15 frozen packages or 15 cans per person °but not more than 250 kilograms

• vegetables

°up to 20 kilograms of frozen or chilled vegetables per person

Fruits and vegetables: fresh• one bag up to 4 kilograms of US number 1 pota-

toes per person and the bag must be commercially packaged

• 15 packages or less up to 250 kilograms of fresh fruits and vegetables per person (excluding potatoes)

• must be free from soil, pests, leaves, branches and/or plant debris

• some restrictions on some fresh fruit and vege-tables from California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washing-ton

• in British Columbia (BC): restrictions on fresh apples, stone fruit and potatoes

Spices, tea, coffee, condiments• entry permitted

Infant formula• commercially packaged

• milk based or non-milk based, (dry/liquid) formula

• for personal use only

• sealed

• up to a maximum of 20 kilograms per person

Leather goods and skins• fully tanned hides and skins only

Meat and poultry products (for example, jerky, sausages, deli meats and patties,fois gras)

• up to 20 kilograms per person

• packages must have identifying marks, indicating what the product is

• proof of country of origin may be required

Meat and poultry: fresh, frozen and chilled• up to 20 kilograms per person

• one turkey per person

• packages must have identifying marks, indicating what the product is

• proof of country of origin may be required

Sea shells and sand• sea shells and items made from them are allowed

• must be clean and free of sea life, soil and sand

You are not allowed to import sand.

Vegetables: fresh• See “Fruits and vegetables”.

Wooden souvenirs• must be free of bark, insects or evidence of insect

activity

Know Where You’re Going

Whether you’re visiting a friend, or just shopping, be as detailed as possible when talking with border agents. When visiting people, make sure you’re able to provide their address, duration of stay, and any other details about what you’ll be doing during your trip. The more details you provide will help make your crossing that much quicker.

More general info can be found at:beaware.gc.ca

NAFTA: North American Free Trade AgreementGoods made and/or assembled in Canada, United States,

72

Adventures NW All Points Bulletin

Bellingham Alive Bellingham Herald

Bellingham On Tap Cascadia Weekly

Entertainment News NW Grow NW

Mt. Baker Experience The Northern Light

Waterside NW What’s Up Magazine

Other great news sources

and Mexico may qualify for preferential tariff treatment under NAFTA. These goods require special documentation such as a certificate of origin. For more information on items accepted under NAFTA, and where to find the appropriate documentation, visit this website:

international.gc.ca

Contact the CFIA National Import Service Centre (NISC) for more information on what you can bring across the border.

inspection.gc.ca

For more detailed information, you can review the import requirements for specific products using the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Automated Import Reference System (AIRS).

airs-sari.inspection.gc.ca

Border TrafficHere’s a link with border traffic information, updated by the minute. Knowing the best place to cross could save hours off your trip. Make sure to check this site for the best place to cross the border.

wsdot.com/traffic





TAKE US WITH YOU!Read it online:

THECROSSINGGUIDE.COMand visit us on social media

GUIDECROSSINGTHEHow the Locals Live

FREE TRAVEL


OCTOBER 3-4Anacortes’ Bier on the Pier A two-day extravaganza of bier, food, and music. Bring your lederhosen, or just your thirst for beer.

anacortes.org/bier-on-the-pier

OCTOBER 3-5Everett Sausage FestA family-friendly Oktober-fest. Lots of indoor activities and, of course, lots of sausage.

festivalnet.com

OCTOBER 17Don McLean at MBT Come enjoy one of the USA’s most beloved sing-er-songwriters, famous for many songs including “American Pie.”

mountbakertheatre.com

OCTOBER 4Richard MarxGrammy-award-winning singer-songwriter kicks off his USA tour at the Silver Reef Casino.

silverreefcasino.com

OCTOBER 18Glass Pumpkin PatchCome view over 2000+ festive hand-blown glass pumpkins. Sponsored by Tacoma Glassblowing Studio.

northwestglasspumpkins.com

SEPTEMBER 274th Annual Skagit Valley Giant Pumpkin FestivalCome gape at huge orange blobs with massive pump-kins, face painting, and tons of activities!

christian-sonsnursery.com

OCTOBER 19Cirque Mechanics Pedal Punk Robert and his band The Put-It-All-Down-In Letters will be recording a live album at tthe Conway Muse.

conwaymuse.com

OCTOBER 183rd Annual Enchanting Fall BallHear ye, hear ye! A family-friendly event in Marysville with all sorts of fun activ-ities. Come dressed in your Sunday best!

marysvilleoperahouse.com

OCTOBER 24-26SnoHoBrewFest21 local craft brewers will showcase 75 craft brews to benefit the Snohomish Senior Center.

snohobrewfest.com

1300 BAY STREETBELLINGHAM, WA(360) 752 - 2968

CAJUN/CREOLE CUISINEBRUNCH ⚫ LUNCH ⚫ DINNER

BAYOU ON BAY is a family-owned and operated business, located in

the heart of downtown Bellingham. We dedicate ourselves on providing delicious food, an interesting

New Orleans atmosphere, and unique service. Combined, this makes BAYOU ON BAY the choice for Bellingham's most radiant dining experiences.

Specializing in Cajun/Creole cuisine, we have

created a comfortable and fun environment that is truly connected to our community. We are always finding new ways to help develop our presence and

sense of community with a voice and aesthetic that best showcases this culture. Come for the food.

Stay for the drinks!

“ Cases are divided into segments then assigned to specialized teams

for analysis & preparation. ”

TEAMSTEAMS

yTrafficMan.NET™

LEGAL CARE CENTER™LEGAL CARE CENTER™

It’s More Than Just Hiring A Lawyer

“ Clients are given a manageablestep-by-step Legal Care Plan that

empowers them & buildsaccountability. ”

EMPOWEREMPOWER

“ The result is real &sustainable solutionsfor the client. ”

SOLUTIONSSOLUTIONS

NOVEMBER 1Holiday Art Mart Fine, locally-made artisan craft, jewelry, and more will be presented and sold at this holiday staple of the Pacific Northwest.

mukilteoarts.org

NOVEMBER 819th Annual Chili & Chowder CookoffA competition to find Camano Island’s best chili and chowder. Come eat, enjoy live music, and much more.

www.camanoisland.org

OCTOBER 31Downtown Trick or TreatBring the kids and trick-or-treat in downtown Belling-ham! Merchants will be giving out candy to kids in costumes.

downtownbham.com

$4.25$1.75 $2.50 $3.00 $3.50 $3.75

C O N V E Y O R B E L T S U S H I

$ 1 O F F E A C H P L A T EA T H A P P Y H O U R

H A P P Y H O U RM O N - T H U R S 2 : 3 0 - 5 9 : 0 0 - C L O S E

F R I - S U N 9 : 0 0 - C L O S E

The Crossing Guide Issue 3

Documents

Transcript of The Crossing Guide Issue 3