Step Into the Splatter Zone at Mount Baker Theatre with Evil Dead: The Musical

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Evil Dead Tour 2014 0067 — Get your tickets now for Evil Dead the Musical. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.

Throughout the year, Mount Baker Theatre (MBT) works hard to make sure that there is a little something for everyone. From ballet, music legends and children’s theater to silent film, tribute acts and touring Broadway shows, there’s always something fun going on. That’s why Evil Dead: The Musical will splatter the Main Stage for just one night on October 7, appropriately sponsored by local clean up experts Bay City Supply.

Evil Dead: The Musical is based on elements of the cult-classic horror films Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2 and Army of Darkness. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.

If you haven’t heard of Evil Dead: The Musical, it’s a show you’ll never forget. This macabre musical comedy sensation is based on elements of the cult-classic horror films Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2 and Army of Darkness. It combines them to make one of the zaniest theatrical experiences of all time.

The plot of the musical is a rough combination of the film plots. Five college students go to an abandoned cabin in the woods where they accidentally unleash an evil force that turns them all into demons. It’s all up to housewares employee Ash to become our demon-killing hero, using his chainsaw to save the day. Audiences have embraced the flying blood and joke-telling demons while rocking to original music. Patrons dance in the aisles to songs like, “All the Men in My Life Keep Getting Killed by Candarian Demons,” “Look Who’s Evil Now” and “What the F@#k Was That?”

Of course, the production isn’t for the faint of heart. The show uses strobe lighting, gunshot effects, smoke, blood, axes, chainsaws, blood, severed body parts and even more blood.

How It Came to Be

This production promises laughs, thrills and a lot of gore-splashing fun. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.

How on earth did a trio of horror films become a hit musical? The first of the Evil Dead films written and directed by Sam Raimi and starring cult icon, Bruce Campbell, appeared in 1981. These movies used comedy, gore, slapstick, blood, one-liners and creative camera techniques to revolutionize the horror genre. Together the trio of films grew a cult following that has helped define and deeply influence modern horror.

In 2003 a group of young people in Toronto first adapted the story to musical form in the back room of a small bar called the Tranzac Club. Like the films, the musical quickly became a cult classic as well.

Other cities began requesting performances of the musical and in 2004, the show opened in Montreal as a featured attraction at the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival.

Evil Dead: The Musical is a show you’ll never forget. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.

By November 2006, Evil Dead: The Musical made its Off-Broadway debut in New York City and the cast album from the show debuted at #4 on the Billboard Show Charts.

In 2007, the production returned to its roots, opening at Toronto’s Diesel Playhouse where it became the longest-running Canadian show in Toronto in over two decades. It also began winning awards including the Dora Audience Choice Award as Toronto’s Favorite Show.

It was then produced in Seoul, Tokyo, Las Vegas and over 350 other locations. Everywhere theater fans wanted some blood with their musicals, there was a production.

The production that will splatter MBT’s Main Stage in October is a recent staging produced by Starvox Entertainment in association with original producer Jeffrey Latimer, based on collaboration with the show’s original Toronto and off-Broadway creative team.

Into the “Splatter Zone”

Get your tickets now for Evil Dead: The Musical. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.

The current staging promises to be a huge scale campy gore-fest complete with the coveted up-close and seriously-personal seats in the “Splatter Zone.” Those seated in this zone will be splashed by stage “blood” and get increasingly wet over the course of the performance. Heads will roll, arms and limbs will fly and the blood will gush to the audience’s delight.

During the original Toronto and off-Broadway runs, in a style reminiscent of Rocky Horror Picture Show, the so-called “Dead-ites” would line up for hours for the privilege of getting drenched with gore from all the onstage mayhem. MBT will carry on the tradition.

Those seated in “The Splatter Zone” are encouraged to wear white so that when the curtain falls at the end of the performance you can proudly show off your blood-stained self to the disbelieving looks of the rest of the less-brave audience! Theatergoers in the zone can wear ponchos available for sale at the merchandise table but most go au naturale.

Critics love this “demented delight,” calling it “Bloody hilarious!” and “Freakin’ awesome!” NYTheatre.com said, “If you think Sweeney Todd is for sissies; you need to see Evil Dead-The Musical!” It also won both the equivalent of the Korean and the Canadian Tony among other accolades.

Audiences need not be a fan of the Evil Dead franchise or musicals to love the show. You’re guaranteed a unique night of fun that you’ll talk about for years to come. Tickets for this raucous splash-fest go on sale Friday, June 9 at 10 a.m. until they’re gone. Fans of Bellingham’s own horror film festival and horror convention, Bleedingham and die-hard video store Film is Truth will snap up tickets early so get yours before they sell out.

Mount Baker Theatre
Evil Dead: The Musical
104 North Commercial Street
Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: 360-733-5793
Tickets: 360-734-6080
www.mountbakertheatre.com

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Top Ten Don’t-Miss Summer Activities in Whatcom County

By

Taylor Lisa Bailey

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The excellent view of Mount Baker from Excelsior Pass, is just one benefit of this adventurous hike. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

It’s always sad when summer ends and I realize that there were key things I meant to do during those hot sunny days that I missed. In this area, with ample wildlife, breathtaking views, a variety of water spots and edible plants growing all around, there is a great deal of natural beauty to enjoy. With our businesses, city activities and cultural events, there is so much to do. It’s easy to miss the simple things. So, here are the top ten summer activities in Whatcom County that might be easy to miss but are too great to pass up.

Berry Picking

The first thing to talk about is berries – there are so many berries in Whatcom County! Walking from Bellingham to Fairhaven on the Interurban trail takes you through plentiful bushes filled with ripe, black, juicy blackberries. Visit the riverfront at Ferndale’s Hovander Homestead and pick yourself some Salmon Berries.

Try to find some of the 30+ wild edible berries that grow in this area. Of course, unless you know the berry is edible, don’t eat it. When berry picking, caution is advised. Chokecherries grow in this area and although they are edible when dried or cooked, they are poisonous. Be careful any time you forage for food.

If that makes you nervous but you still want to handpick berries this summer, visit a local you-pick farm to get bags full of blueberries, currants, raspberries and more. There are so many local varieties of berries that you could make your own scavenger hunt list and see how many you can find.

Hiking

The excellent view of Mount Baker from Excelsior Pass, is just one benefit of this adventurous hike. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

While you’re outside looking for berries and eating the ones you know are good, you might as well go on a hike. When I first moved here four years ago, everybody I met asked me two questions. “Do you like to hike?” And, “Have you hiked Oyster Dome?” The answers are yes and (now) yes. But there are so many hikes in this area that it’s a pity to just ask about Oyster Dome.

The summer opens up Mount Baker which is filled with snow all winter. Artist Point, way up at the top, offers views that rival the Alps all from the parking lot. There is at least one long mountain biking trail, numerous camping opportunities and beautiful hiking trails. Church Mountain hike is a good choice for those with legs of steel and Excelsior Pass is a gorgeous wooded-hike that opens up to mountain views, flower-covered fields and (if you are lucky) wild turkeys. For the entire year we can access Galbraith, Chuckanut and all of the lower elevation hikes in this county. During the summer, make a trip out to Mount Baker.

Farmers’ Market

The covered area of Bellingham’s Saturday Market offers baked breads, farm-fresh foods and great people watching. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

If the drive is too far for the day, turn your car towards a Farmers’ Market. Music, laughter, fresh treats and delicious smells are hallmarks of these wonderful events and even if you don’t buy anything it can be a great activity. On Thursday afternoons Lynden offers a farmers market filled to the brim with delicious, locally-grown food and products. On Fridays Ferndale’s Public Market is open for business. Bellingham’s Farmers Market is open on Saturdays, offering baked goods, farm fresh vegetables and fruits, plants, gifts and restaurant vendors along with entertainers trying out their routines. Also on Saturday, you can try out Blaine’s Gardeners Market and the Lummi Island Farmers Market.

Movies in the Park

Bring your blanket and lawn chair to the Fairhaven Green to enjoy an outdoor movie in historic Fairhaven District.

Saturdays, while offering three Farmers Markets, also offer a great nighttime activity that has been a tradition for me each summer – Fairhaven’s Outdoor Cinema. I like to bring blankets, ice cream and friends, and have gotten to see some great films under the night sky with grass on my toes. Different groups sponsor all the movies and if you go before sunset you can watch a presentation by that group. After sunset, the projector is turned on and suddenly the side of a building is transformed into a giant, outdoor movie screen. 2017 showings include “Rogue One,” “Moana,” “Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them,” “La La Land,” “The Princess Bride,” “Ghost Busters” (1984) and “Willy Wonka” (1971). Five dollars will get you in early so you can grab a good spot on the lawn.

Ice Cream

Edaleen Dairy offers fresh, local ice cream, right here in Whatcom County. Photo courtesy: Edaleen Dairy.

What’s summer without ice cream? It’s a great way to cool down and you won’t find better options anywhere. Edaleen Dairy has locally-famous ice cream made right here in Whatcom County. Their delicious ice cream is offered in Lynden, Ferndale, Bellingham, Sumas, Blaine, Laurel, Maple Falls, Everson, Nooksack, Deming, Glacier and Kendall. Mallards Ice Cream in Bellingham has unique, homemade flavors constantly being created. In fact, they have over 600 flavors! Past favorites of mine have been Rose, Watermelon Ice (a non-dairy option) and Jalapeño. Definitely make room for some cool, tasty treats this summer!

Museums

Old City Hall, now the Whatcom Museum, is an iconic 1892 building in extravagant Victorian style. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism.

If Ice Cream doesn’t help you escape the heat, try heading inside to a local museum. Yes, summer is a good time to learn too! In Bellingham there are several cool options including the Whatcom Museum, the Lightcatcher (their Family Interactive Gallery is idea for kids), SPARK museum of Electrical Invention, Mindport Exhibits, and the Bellingham Railway Museum. Farther south is the Heritage Flight Museum in Burlington and in Lynden is the Pioneer Museum. Really, the unique mixture of science, art and history on display in our county is praiseworthy. Where else can you stand in a big metal ball with lightning shooting all around you or look at a display of National Geographic’s top photographs, and then go look at the history of railroads and flight in the same day?

Swimming

Marla Bailey floats peacefully in the calm waters of Lake Whatcom. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

Getting inside on some of these hot days can be a special treat but nothing beats that summer heat like a good swim. I know, too obvious to miss, right? But with work, friends, late nights and all these great options for daytime activities, it can be surprisingly hard to find time to get in the water. Jump in a lake, swim laps or waterslide your day away, but make sure to submerge at least once. It is much more fun in the sun than going for the Polar Plunge.

Picnic

Find some quiet under the shade of a tree and enjoy the bay views while you picnic.

When you head outside, you might as well bring a sandwich or two and have yourself a picnic. There are great picnicking locations throughout Whatcom County, from beaches to grassy fields to hills and mountains. It’s classic summertime when someone brings a picnic lunch for a full day of fun, with or without the basket!

Music

Summertime air is so much sweeter when its carrying beautiful music. Downtown Sounds feature various genres of music each Wednesday between July and August in downtown Bellingham. Elizabeth Park, also in Bellingham, has a concert series on Thursday evenings. Spend the 3^rd Friday of each month at the Commercial Street Night Market. This is open from May to September and offers food, entertainment, and local music. You can find circus performers, rock bands, pinball machines, ice-skating and more. You’re sure to see lots that you never expected to encounter at 1300 Commercial Street. There are also countless individual events, such as Ferndale’s Music in the Park.

Sunsets

The view of the sunset from Locust Beach is breathtaking. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

Finally, something slightly elusive in the summer but extremely beautiful and very west coast – watching the sunset. Whatcom County has incredible views of the ocean and islands, especially if you’ve hiked up some elevation. With the sun setting at nine or later, it can be hard to plan to stay out long enough to watch the sunset, but that pink and orange sky is so beautiful that it’s one thing on this list you really shouldn’t miss.

So there it is – in between your ice cream tasting, swimming, picnicking and visiting museums, try to get out there and pick some berries, explore Mount Baker, visit a farmers market, watch a movie in the warm night air, listen to some music and watch the sunset. Happy adventuring!

BelleWood Acres Celebrates Father’s Day on the Farm

By

Jennifer Dodge

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Bellewood Acres Father's Day on the farm — Celebrate all things fall at BelleWood Farms. Photo credit: Stacee Sledge

Are you looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day with your dad? We have the perfect solution for you. After all, what says Father’s Day better than barbecue and classic cars?

Pick up a delicious baked good for dad this Father’s Day. Photo courtesy: BelleWood Acres.

BelleWood Acres is where you need to be on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., when they bring it all home with Father’s Day on the Farm. The event promises to be tons of fun and it comes complete with the annual Car Show and deluxe barbecue.

With over a 100 different classic cars and hot rods, this not-to-be missed car show is free to all spectators looking to get up close and personal with these great machines. You and your dad can meander through the lines of cars and reminisce about the good old glory days. What a great opportunity to chat with your dad about his good old days too! The experience is sure to bring back lots of good memories he’d be happy to share. Plus, the two of you will be making new memories – ones sure to last a lifetime.

BelleWood Acres apple testing — Try before you buy: each of the varieties is available for taste testing in the Farm Store. Photo credit: Libby Liming.

Have a classic car you want to register for all to see and enjoy? For only $15, you can register your car to be a part of the car show. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Whatcom Humane Society, Bellingham Food Bank, Vietnam Veterans and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Father’s Day on the Farm will also include a full day of raffles, trophies, food and fun! Plus you’ll enjoy everything to live music from the band Lost at Last.

Don’t miss the delicious food being offered at the breakfast buffet from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. This will be followed by an amazing barbecue lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You and dad can savor the sweet and tangy tastes of barbecue while you relish in good music and the beautiful scenery of Bellewood Acres.

Situated just outside of Bellingham along the Guide Meridian, BelleWood Acres is the home to one of the largest apple orchards in Northwest Washington. The farm is open for picking apples from the orchard, pumpkins from the pumpkin patch and shopping at the farm market featuring locally grown produce. Be sure to take advantage of the opportunity and stock up on this delicious, nutritious, locally grown produce. While you’re at it, why not pick up the ingredients for a delicious Father’s Day dinner? This Father’s Day is sure to be the best one yet. So bring Dad down to BelleWood Acres on Father’s Day for a day of cars, barbecue and fun!

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Bargain Bellingham—Summer Guide to the Best Swimming Spots in Whatcom County

By

Taylor Lisa Bailey

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canoe lake boat swim — Father and son Larry and Kevin Bailey canoe Lake Whatcom while friend Kyle McCrain swims alongside. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

Every year, when the clouds part and the sunshine begins to warm our skin, Pacific Northwest residents flock to grassy hills, rocky beaches, anywhere to relax and soak in the sun. Luckily for us there are a lot of great swimming spots in Whatcom County, with a long ocean shoreline, and numerous lakes sprinkled throughout. Whether you dive, doggie-paddle, skip rocks or sun tan, there is something about being by water with clear blue skies above that feels like summer.

Marla Bailey floats peacefully in the calm waters of Lake Whatcom. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

Nearly every resident has a watering hole that they favor, either because of activities offered, proximity to home, or sheer natural beauty. For one resident, it’s a mixture of all three that draw her to Lake Padden. “I love to run or walk around the lake, since it’s about three miles,” she says excitedly, “and if it’s a hot day then I get to jump in the lake afterwards.”

I can definitely agree. Playing tennis, Frisbee, flag football or just having a picnic on the benches or grass in the hot sun followed by a quick dip in the water is very refreshing. Watching the boaters on kayaks or in fishing vessels is a great sight in this park too. “It’s so close to my house that when I get off work, or before I start, I have enough time to go and just sit in the water, or swim a little ways,” she says. “If there is more time then even better. I’ll run as hard as I can and when I get tired I’ll cool off in the cool water!”

Lake Padden, at the bottom of a bowl of little hills and surrounded by dense trees, is a beautiful excursion for those who want the feeling of wilderness about them. I used to be a nanny and after I would drop the kids off at school at Wade King, I would drive down Yew Street towards Lake Padden and go for a run. After the winter passed and days grew longer, hotter and sunnier, those runs became less frequent. More often with my feet in the water, dangling over the edge of a dock or wading in, I would just enjoy the sun.

Though enjoyable, Lake Padden is fairly small for a body of water, especially when compared to its neighbor, Lake Whatcom. There are many points of access to Lake Whatcom, hidden or private, or public and accessible. Hundreds (if not thousands) of people get to swim in the clean glacier waters each summer.

Bloedel Donovan Park is an open area with plenty of space for little kids (plus a cool jungle gym!) or dogs, and a great swimming spot protected from boaters. It’s always fun to pass by and see young kids standing on the wooden pillars poking from the water, ready to jump in or families sitting in the grass enjoying the sun as the summer breeze carries the laughter of children and teens splashing in the lake.

Further along, at the North Lake Whatcom Trail, you can find more secluded swimming spots. It’s a summertime tradition now, for the past four summers that I have lived in Whatcom County, to walk the short trail along the water until I find a fun place to spend the day. With friends, we’ll find trees to float on further out in the lake, explore fallen trees or relax under a green canopy in the shade. This area is my favorite to bring an underwater camera to (I’ll usually pick up a disposable one each summer) and take snap shots of friends’ goggle-covered faces in the green water.

whatcom county lakes — Leap into summer swimming at Whatcom County’s many lakes. ©WhatcomTalk.

If you have ever been a student at Western, or know a student/alumni, also make sure to go to Lakewood on Lake Whatcom. They have sailboats, canoes, kayaks and paddle boards for rent for extremely low prices. One summer, nine of us went paddle boarding for a total of $27 for the day. Not only is there a lounge to rent for events and places to BBQ with picnic benches and a grassy hill, but it also offers three great docks for diving, jumping and (hopefully not) belly flopping.

Of course, if you aren’t a student you may still want to get out on the water in a canoe or kayak. Silver Lake Park is gorgeous, with serene mountain views and places to camp, and it offers rentals of aquatic vessels. Take a trip out, maybe spend the night and enjoy a relaxing day out on the water.

Last summer, while walking along Locust Beach at low tide, my husband and I decided to see how far we could get before the water reached our shorts. Well, about a mile out, I was safe by a couple inches and my husband only had to roll up his shorts a little bit. We spent about an hour just wading through, in wonder at the shallow waters, before heading back and watching some skim boarders. Definitely come try this out, even just to feel the sand in your toes!

Local swimming spots are great for just relaxing too.

Another must-visit place, especially if you own goggles, is Clayton Beach. Last summer my husband saw jellyfish, and I always love watching the kelp under water, or spying darting fish swim by. The ocean is cold but visibility is normally clear and being on the coast offers unobstructed afternoon sunlight. Since it’s a little further away from town and involves a hike to reach, it’s also slightly secluded.

Here’s to a fun, wet summer in the sun!

Quick Reference Guide:

Lake Whatcom: Access through various points for swimming, snorkeling and boating (kayaks, canoes, sailboats, motor boats, etc.).

Lake Padden: Take a dip in the waters or try out fishing.

Silver Lake: Canoeing and kayaking are the best for this calm, medium sized lake.

Marine Park: Try some swimming in the waves, or just relax on the sandy beach.

Locust Beach: During low tide, see how far out you can wade. It seems to be a mile or more where the water is barely above the knee! Try skim boarding here or kite surfing (or, relax and watch the skim boarders and kite surfers!)

Boulevard Park: The new sandy beach is in, meaning you can get a coffee and sit on the sand in under five minutes. Explore rocks and tides or go to Taylor Dock and jump in.

Clayton Beach: Big rocks and a cool, secluded beach in the beautiful Chuckanut Mountains mean you can read by the water and take a dip. Bring some goggles for great snorkeling.

Whatcom Falls: Explore the many spots along the river for swimming or take a chance and jump in at the falls. Make sure to jump with someone who knows where the spot is – it can be dangerous.

Arne Hannah: Get strong arms during the lap-swim time or get in the water on those cloudy summer days. Yearlong swimming!

Birch Bay Waterslides: Have a blast with water slides, hot tubs and wave pools for some old-time family fun.

Lynden Downtown Business Association Launches Friday Films on 4th

By

LocalTalk Contributor

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lynden main street — The City of Lynden is one of 25 finalists in the America's Main Streets contest.

Submitted by: Village Books and Paper Dreams

Grab your lawn chairs, pick up a snack from a downtown business, and join your neighbors for Friday Films on 4th this summer in downtown Lynden. Films begin at dusk and are projected onto an inflatable screen installed at 4^th and Grover streets for the special events. The free outdoor movie series will debut Friday, July 21, with “Guardians of the Galaxy.” On Friday, July 28, watch the 1967 animated version of “The Jungle Book.” Fans of the Beatles will delight in seeing “A Hard Day’s Night” Friday, August 4. The series will wrap up with “The Lego Batman Movie” Friday, August 11.

There is limited seating on the grass at Centennial Park; guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs. Stake out a spot. Then, while waiting for the sunset, shop and eat in downtown businesses.

The Lynden Downtown Business Association is the executive producer of the free summer film series. The event is supported by Whatcom Community Foundation and Acme Foods with additional support from Village Books and Paper Dreams, Avenue Bread and the Jansen Art Center. The Lynden Tribune is the media sponsor.

Katheryn Moran Photography Makes Local Businesses Look Good

By

Sara Holodnick

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The Elegant Apple Styled Shoot was featured in Apple Brides Magazine in Fall 2016. Photo courtesy: Katheryn Moran Photography.

Bellingham lifestyle photographer Katheryn Moran has been taking pictures since she was gifted her first camera when she was five years old. Originally from the Seattle area, Moran’s parents presented her with her first nice camera when she was a freshman in college at Western Washington University. She started surprising friends with impromptu photo shoots when they would get together, practicing posing and lighting

Moran taught preschool while she studied Human Services and Psychology at WWU. “I really like that age group,” she shared. “It was the perfect fit for me at the time, having a balance of playing with kids all day and going to school. Eventually, I started taking my camera to work and I convinced my boss at the time to let me start a blog for the school.” Moran’s blog idea was a big hit. Parents loved seeing photos of their kids and sharing them with others. Her work as an Early Childhood Educator eventually brought her to Portland but when her job at a preschool fell through she took a position as a receptionist at a recruitment company.

“I found the venue and knew right away this would work perfectly for this space,” shared Moran. “I loved the warm color scheme.” Photo courtesy: Katheryn Moran Photography.

“It was a great way for me to be around people all day,” she shared. “I love to be in the middle of everything.” At work Moran had the opportunity to meet people from all around the country but once she was home she made good use of her bright, Portland apartment as a makeshift photo studio. After a year and a half in Portland, Moran moved back to Bellingham and started her photography business.

“I jumped in with both feet,” she explained. She booked her first wedding through Craigslist and with the support of her now-husband, Charles, was able to book 18 weddings that first year in business. While she worked other jobs on the side when she first started her business, she’s been working for herself full-time since 2015. “The opportunities that I’ve gotten here have been really cool,” Moran said.

Some of those opportunities have come from Moran’s strategic use of styled shoots. Styled shoots are planned photo sessions that center on a theme or inspiration. Often collaborative, these shoots tend to feature many different vendors. If you’ve ever been on Pinterest or spent any time perusing photographers’ blogs, there’s a good chance you’ve come into contact with plenty of beautiful styled shoot photos.

This shot features vintage pieces and ambient light. Photo courtesy: Katheryn Moran Photography.

Moran has been organizing these shoots locally since she moved back to Bellingham. For her, styled shoots are an opportunity to test ideas and work with other people. “I think there are two approaches to styled shoots,” Moran said. “When I first got going, I wanted to make connections. Honestly, I wanted to make friends! But I also wanted to try different things and see what fit with me, what I like and find my style.”

Styled shoots can be a long process, especially when the photographer is the one organizing it. “In my experience, it’s not typically the photographer who does all the coordination,” said Moran. “I really like to be in control of those details because I have a vision but it’s good to get other people involved and get their vision. But if I do all the planning and do the shoot, and then the editing and the submitting, it ends up being a six to eight month process.”

This Star Gazing shoot was inspired by Valentine’s Day. Photo courtesy: Katheryn Moran Photography.

Moran approaches other businesses with her vision and is clear about what benefits they’ll receive for participating. Some people use styled shoots to flesh out their own portfolio but Moran wants to help build-up the other vendors, from venue to baker.

“I think styled shoots for businesses are the best kinds of styled shoots,” she shared. Moran has done 12 styled shoots over the past four years and she’s found that the photos prove their own value. “Businesses have a hard time understanding how powerful photos really are until they see people interacting with them online.”

This shoot let Moran try her hand at shooting in the snow, playing with texture and lighting off smoke bombs. Photo courtesy: Katheryn Moran Photography.

All the participating vendors get access to a selection of photos after a styled shoot and agree to tag each participating business whenever they share it online. The result is a flurry of beautiful photos that help promote many local makers. “It’s obviously powerful,” Moran explained.

You can see more of Katheryn Moran Photography’s styled shoots on her blog, or follow her on Instagram to keep up with her new projects.

Vendors, Snowy Winter Styled Shoot: Katheryn Moran Photography, Pozie by Natalie (flowers), Ashley Lee Beauty (make-up), Frankie & Maude (dress), Megan Lee Designs (jewelry), Noteworthy Ink (invitations), The Silvery Moon (wedding ring), Rustic Event Rentals (event rentals), MOMAD Productions (event planning), and Paulina Antczak-Bevens (model).

The Elegant Apple Styled Shoot was featured in Apple Brides Magazine in Fall 2016. Photo courtesy: Katheryn Moran Photography.

Vendors, Elegant Apple Styled Shoot: Katheryn Moran Photography, Pozie by Natalie (flowers), Anderson Acres (venue), BelleWood Acres (apples), Belle Bridal (dress), Megan Lee Designs (jewelry), Noteworthy Ink (invitations), The Silvery Moon (wedding ring), Rustic Event Rentals (event rentals), Slice of Heaven Custom Baked Goodies (dessert), Crochet by Chrisdee (crochet bunting), Sarah Rydman (nails), Kelsie Ardvison (lashes), Elizabeth Marie Makeup (make-up) and Brooklyn Matthysse (model).

Vendors, Star Gazing Proposal Shoot: Katheryn Moran Photography, Wander Event Rentals (event rentals), MOMAD Productions (coordinator), BIJA Chocolates (chocolate), Sophie’s Goldmine (ring), Penny Lane Antique Mall (antiques, lanterns), and Sarah Rorvig and Spencer Klvegaard (models).

Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant—Food for the Soul and the Community

By

Jade Thurston

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Churros come with whipped cream and sweet, strawberry glaze. Photo credit: Jade Thurston.

Stretching across a quarter of a block, a yellow building sits on a corner in downtown Ferndale. Awnings, shingles and trim stand out in red, matching some brick layers near the sidewalk. Ivy coats all but the round top windows on one side of the structure. Sound familiar?

Wherever you live in Whatcom County, you probably know of or have seen Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant at some point. After all, they have been serving the community for the past 22 years.

Ivy cascades down a side of Chihuahua, creating a natural addition to the building. Photo credit: Jade Thurston.

When Martin Hernandez (who goes by Alex, a shortened version of his middle name) and his brothers moved from Chihuahua, Mexico, in 1984, they began working in the roofing and concrete industries in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. Just a year later, Alex moved to Seattle, where his restaurant experience – chef, waiter, etc. – built up over the next eight years. Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant opened in Ferndale in 1994.

Alex has maintained and run Chihuahua as a family business. His wife and sons work at the restaurant, along with friends who have been a part of it since the beginning and some new hires. One of Alex’s sons, Jocsan Hernandez, 26, has been helping out in the restaurant since he was nine years old. Now he’s a manager.

“When I was little, we used to have lines of people outside the door and all the way alongside the road,” Jocsan said.

Bathroom doors are marked with large images of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Photo credit: Jade Thurston.

Back then at the start of the business, Chihuahua could seat 75 people. Now, as one of the largest Mexican restaurants in Washington, Chihuahua has space for more than 300.

When you walk in the front entrance of Chihuahua’s, there is a small seating area to the left. That was part of the main restaurant when it began and it stayed that way for roughly 10 years. Since then, the Hernandez family has expanded into the old business next door, covered and enlarged a section that used to be a patio area and created a new outdoor segment. Employees use radio headsets to communicate throughout the different parts of the restaurant.

Bird decorations, such as parrots, are placed in the outdoor area. Photo credit: Jade Thurston.

“On Fridays and Saturdays, the place usually can fill up – between 300 and 350 people,” Jocsan said. “It gets pretty busy in here but we’re taught how to handle it.”

While providing appealing, authentic Mexican cuisine on their menu, Jocsan said his dad has always trained everyone to work the quickest they can. Surely speed can make a difference when at a capacity of 300 hungry customers. “He’s always wanted the fastest Mexican restaurant,” Jocsan said about his father. “Some people seem like they might not like how fast we are but we aren’t trying to rush you – just want to get your order to you quickly and not make you wait.”

Local sports teams thank Chihuahua for sponsoring them by giving Chihuahua pictures and plaques for the restaurant walls. Photo credit: Jade Thurston.

On the flip side, when business slows down a bit each year, Chihuahua will sometimes organize promotions for customers. For example, usually a couple times in the winter and fall, Chihuahua will accept Canadian cash at par. Between customers seeking out the restaurant, regulars or those just passing through Ferndale, Jocsan said they cater to a lot of people.

A few of Chihuahua’s menu specials throughout the week include beef fajitas, carne asada, mole and chili Colordao. There are different specials almost every day of the week and varying coupons are available on their website for customers to print out and bring in. Though Chihuahua’s recipes pull in people, the decorations are just as authentic. The trinkets placed around the room were brought back from Mexico. Every time Alex makes a trip down there, he purchases little finds that would complement the restaurant’s design and make the dining experience more entertaining. Quite a collection of decorations have gathered among the shelves and walls throughout the space.

Churros come with whipped cream and sweet, strawberry glaze. Photo credit: Jade Thurston.

“My dad is constantly adding things or making new little changes,” Jocsan said, pointing to recent detailing done around a window near a booth. “He’s always looking to make improvements.”

Alex and his brothers opened another location – called Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant and Tequila Bar – in Aurora, CO, roughly six years after the one in Ferndale opened. Alex’s brothers have somewhat taken over that location, while Alex manages Chihuahua. There is also a Chihuahua food truck in Bellingham, located at 1204 Iowa Street, which one of Alex’s sons manages.

Whether taking advantage of the large, festive setup in Ferndale or taking food to go from the Bellingham truck, Chihuahua’s authenticity and dedication enhances Whatcom County cuisine.

“We’re all kind of a team here,” Jocsan said.

WhatcomTalk Opens 2017 – 2018 High School Internship Opportunity

By

WhatcomTalk Editor

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WhatcomTalk has opened a limited internship opportunity to Whatcom County high school students interested in writing for our community social network. The internship will run from September 2017 – June 2018 and is open to all Whatcom County students entering grades 10 through 12.

This internship is experiential instead of instructional. Interns will meet for one orientation and receive guidance and support from editorial staff. Feedback will be given as needed however interns will not receive instruction.

Read a first-hand account of what our interns gained during this school year by clicking here.

What Interns will experience:

Content published with your own byline on WhatcomTalk.com
Exposure to the workings of a profitable, innovative digital media company
Insight into and experience with the freelance writing process
Connections with professional editors and recognized business leaders
Flexibility to complete assignments on your own schedule
Opportunity to source and pitch story ideas important to you and your peers

What WhatcomTalk expects:

One article with four photos (minimum) submitted each month by deadline
Exceptional, error-free content that matches our platform’s voice and style
Consistent follow-through on commitments
Prompt communication via email with editorial staff
Sincere interest in what WhatcomTalk creates for the community
Initiative to ask for what you want to learn, communicate needs and ask questions

To apply:

Introduce yourself in two to three sentences and include two or three goals you hope an internship with WhatcomTalk will fulfill by the end of the school year.
Write 200 – 300 words that share why you love your community.
Send via email to submit@whatcomtalk.com by Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017.
Include your name, school, grade level and contact phone number.

Questions can be directed to WhatcomTalk at submit@whatcomtalk.com.

Image photo credit: Whatcom Community College

BP—Supporting Environmental Efforts in Whatcom County

By

Jennifer Dodge

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bp cherry point — Cherry Point Refinery and its employees have engaged in a variety of important environmental initiatives in Whatcom County. Photo courtesy: BP Cherry Point Refinery.

Nestled in the scenic Pacific Northwest amidst wetlands, streams, ponds and shoreline habitats, BP’s Cherry Point Refinery opened in 1971 with the primary purpose of refining crude oil into transportation fuels.

Though the business of refining has changed quite a bit over the years, one thing has remained constant – Cherry Point’s commitment to conducting its business in a way that respects the environment we all cherish. The refinery and its employees have engaged in a variety of important environmental initiatives in Whatcom County.

Pete Sim, environmental engineer at the refinery, leads BP’s initiative to partner with the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association (NSEA) to restore valuable salmon habitat. “Our partnership with NSEA demonstrates our long-term commitment to environmental restoration, and it has proved very fruitful over the years,” said Sim.

“In 1999, I was asked by the head ranger at Birch Bay State Park why there weren’t any salmon in Terrell Creek,” says Rachel Vasak, Executive Director at NSEA. “It was natural for us to begin working with BP Cherry Point as they own part of the property through which Terrell Creek runs.”

In 2003, BP started working with volunteers and NSEA to restore portions of the 8.2-mile segment of Terrell Creek that falls within BP’s property. Other landowners along Terrell Creek were supportive as well, including the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife and Washington State Parks who became partners in the salmon habitat restoration effort.

Vasak explains the mission of NSEA is to “strive to recover salmon by engaging our community in restoration, education and stewardship.” NSEA is an apolitical non-profit organization tied to environmental work, finding common ground with community members and their goals while improving salmon habitat.

bp cherry point refinery — Other landowners along Terrell Creek were supportive as well, including the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife and Washington State Parks who became partners in the salmon habitat restoration effort. Photo courtesy: BP Cherry Point Refinery.

Working alongside NSEA, BP employees and their families have planted thousands of native trees and shrubs along the banks of Terrell Creek. The project has also included removal of invasive vegetation and removal of various fish barriers. After a decade of hard work through community partnerships, salmon are utilizing the waters and gravel beds of Terrell Creek to spawn once again.

“While BP Cherry Point specifically supported the Terrell Creek Project because of the property ownership, they’ve also invested in other projects that have seen successful outcomes,” says Vasak, further describing BP’s involvement in local salmon habitat efforts.

In fact, for more than 10 years, BP has been a primary sponsor of NSEA’s Students for Salmon program, which introduces 4^th grade students in Whatcom County to salmon habitat through in-class presentations, hands-on research in the field, and follow-up visits.

BP Cherry Point has also identified other opportunities for utilizing their vast property here in Whatcom County to study and help improve the environment.

For the past 15 years, BP has been working to develop an advance wetland mitigation area on its property. The 220-acre wetland mitigation site has transformed degraded fields into highly functioning wetland habitat. Sim says that the site, which is one of the state’s largest private wetland mitigation areas, has quickly transformed into habitat for a variety of wildlife species.

Sim says the mitigation includes seasonal ponds that are utilized as breeding habitat for frogs and salamanders. “This is a great thing,” he says. “Amphibians are a good indicator of how well the environment is working.”

With this discovery, the BP Citizen Science Amphibian Census Team was created about five years ago to study the population of amphibians within BP-owned property. More than 25 volunteers collect data and identify egg masses to determine the species types and population levels. Four species have been found, including tree frogs, red-legged frogs, northwestern salamander and long-toed salamander. Because amphibians are very sensitive to water quality, these findings are significant. A growing population of amphibians means the water quality is very good.

The Citizen Science program is still very popular thanks to the strong partnership between BP and the Whatcom County Amphibian Monitoring Program (WCAMP). BP hopes to continue to build programs like this one to help raise public awareness around the importance of good environmental stewardship.

This is still only a portion of the extensive BP Cherry Point property that is being utilized for community programs. Sim adds that a large percentage of the land is leased to local farmers at no cost. The farmers work with the Whatcom Conservation District to develop a Farm Plan which focuses on the utilization of best management practices to protect water quality and wildlife habitat. “Some of the farmers have been leasing land from BP Cherry Point for their own purposes for more than a decade”, says Sim.

While much of BP’s environmental efforts are seen in the utilization of its property, BP is a major supporter of community environmental stewardship. The BP Heron Center for Environmental Education at Birch Bay State Park opened in July 2014. The center was a dream of Birch Bay State Park Manager, Ted Morris. The interpretive center, featuring a classroom setting adjacent to Terrell Creek, provides environmental programs for school groups and the community. Park rangers and community members lead educational programs about the local wildlife in the Birch Bay ecosystem.

As it has demonstrated for more than 45 years, BP Cherry Point Refinery is committed to environmental protection and restoration, and looks forward to supporting environmental efforts in Whatcom County into the future.

Judd & Black Appliance Partners to Bring the James Street Block Party to the Community

By

Jennifer Dodge

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james street block party — The James Street Block Party is the perfect way to unwind with some community fun. Photo courtesy: Judd & Black Appliance.

Looking for a lively community event complete with cool technology and tools, vehicle safety checks and fabulous food? Look no further than the upcoming James Street Block Party on Friday and Saturday, June 16 and 17.

Have some fun at the James Street Block Party with Judd & Black Appliance. Photo courtesy: Judd & Black Appliance.

Deciding to build on what had been the annual sales event, Tool Fair, the team at Hardware Sales set out to create an even bigger and better event. They partnered with Judd & Black Appliance and Les Schwab on James Street to bring the first annual James Street Block Party to the community. The block party offers the perfect opportunity to toast summer and the community with sales, food and fun for these three Bellingham businesses. Most importantly it provides a great opportunity for the businesses to connect with their neighbors.

Since the event will be held on Father’s Day weekend, it is also the perfect opportunity to grab a great deal on the best gift for dad on his special day. From tires to tools and appliances to grills, you will find exactly what you need and what he wants!

Each of the three business locations will feature new and cutting-edge product and service demonstrations, fantastic food choices from some of the best food trucks in town and great deals on what they each have to offer from their own respective businesses and industries.

Look for the Les Schwab Sign on James Street for block party fun! Photo courtesy: Judd & Black Appliance.

Would dad (or you) like a new television? It could be yours if you win the drawing. Be sure to get your punch card stamped at each location to enter to win a 55-inch Samsung Curved 4K ultra HD TV. Check out the television on display at Judd & Black Appliance, valued at $1,099!

Hardware Sales is continuing with their always-popular 23^rd Annual Tool Fair with over thirty vendors and live demonstrations of new and popular tools. For the kids, Saturday brings a Bouncy House and a fun and educational safety event from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The kids can play and learn while you catch up on the latest in gadgets and tools.

At their James Street location, Les Schwab will feature a free pre-trip safety check during the block party event while you peruse the activities and products or grab a bite to eat. It is a good way to get ready for those annual summer family road trips or to just check in on the safety of your vehicle.

Judd & Black Appliance will have a representative from Samsung on Friday showing off the latest cool new technology with connected products including the Family Hub refrigerator. This kitchen staple has a tablet built right into the door to help you and your family get even more organized.

The James Street Block Party is the perfect way to unwind with some community fun. Photo courtesy: Judd & Black Appliance.

You definitely won’t want to miss the representative from Weber at Judd & Black Appliance on Saturday who will be demonstrating the new line of Genesis 2 grills, answering questions and sharing tips on using the Barbeque.

As you take in the demonstrations and vendors, be sure to stop by the incredible food trucks also featured at each location on both days of the event. With Feast and Bare Bones BBQ on Friday and JT’s Smokin’ BBQ, Hot Mess and Delicious Mischief on Saturday, you will be sure to find some great food while you shop and have some fun with the community.

Want to meet some of our local on-air talent? The James Street Block Party also comes with live radio broadcasts and great promotions. Mandy with KAFE will be at Judd & Black Appliance on Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additional on-air talent from KISM will be at Hardware Sales from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday and 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Les Schwab on Saturday.

Judd & Black Appliance, locally owned and family operated in Bellingham for just over three years, is excited to be a part of this event. “We’re excited to meet our neighbors,” says Judd & Black Appliance Marketing Director Rachael Sylte. “Come and get to know us.” Sylte is looking forward to connecting with the community as well as showing people what Judd & Black Appliance is all about and what they have to offer.

From live demonstrations to great food and a ton of great deals, the James Street Block Party event is sure to be the talk of the town. Plus it’s a great way to enhance Father’s Day weekend. Be sure to come check out all the fun!

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