United Way of Whatcom County Gets Ahead, Serves 700 More People

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lydia house Jackie and Skyler PSP 2016 — Photo courtesy United Way of Whatcom County.

Submitted by United Way of Whatcom County

United Way of Whatcom County announced that they will be serving 100,000 people this year with the addition of 700 more people through newly funded projects in order to get ahead of crucial issues in our community.

Three years ago United Way of Whatcom County began switching their alignment to focus efforts and funds towards projects and programs that get in front of the issues to ensure all children are prepared for school, that teens graduate, that families have food on the table and a roof overhead, and that all individuals are healthy and avoid risky behaviors. This opened the door to partner with new and innovative programs while still continuing long-term relationships with proven legacy programs that are all working towards the same goals. United Way recently announced that they will be investing in a total of 35 programs, many of them long-term proven partnerships.

Decisions Were Based on Helping ALICE and those in Poverty

Current research through United Way’s ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed) study shows that 18% of Whatcom County households are living below the poverty line and 24% of households are in the ALICE category, working but still unable to make ends meet. That means that 42% of our community is struggling, which impacts all of us. When those below the ALICE threshold are doing better, we all benefit from a stronger economy, less crime, and healthier and better-prepared children and families. United Way is focused on lifting up ALICE and those in poverty to create a stronger community for us all. Based on this focus, a total of 35 programs were chosen by local volunteers to receive grants, including three programs that have never before been funded by United Way of Whatcom County. Grants were decided based on the program’s ability to be preventative and get ahead of the issues, giving children the best start possible, and breaking cycles of poverty. Newly funded programs include Lydia Place’s Parent Support Program, Mercy Housing Northwest’s Service Enriched Farmworker Housing Program, and Rebound of Whatcom County’s Rebound Roots Program.

Parent Support Program – Lydia Place

The Parent Support Program was launched in 2015 by Lydia Place and has been so successful that it has had a waiting list since its inception. United Way of Whatcom County has been a long-time partner with Lydia Place, supporting other programs run by the organization, and was excited at the opportunity to be part of expanding this new and successful program. The Parent Support Program focuses on strengthening the parent-child relationship, providing parent coaching and hands-on tools, developmental screenings, and tailored resources. The objective is to increase positive childhood outcomes such as physical and mental health, positive self-image, and success in educational programs. Studies have shown that children receiving these types of services show greater school readiness when compared to their peers. Many of the clients have experienced homelessness and other difficult situations and the tools and guidance provided by the Parent Support Program is crucial to reducing trauma for the children and breaking the cycles of abuse and poverty. United Way funds will help expand this program from 20 participants to 55.

Service-Enriched Farm Worker Housing through Mercy Housing Northwest

Mercy Housing Northwest’s Service-Enriched Farm Worker Housing Program provides a wide range of supportive services designed to promote affordable housing, education, healthy lifestyles, and overall skill building. By providing farm worker families an affordable home Mercy Housing Northwest helps give their children the stability they need to succeed in school and is able to offer a variety of other services on-site. For the past four years, 100% of the youth at Sterling Meadows (the local Whatcom County site) have graduated on time. This year, not only are they all graduating but they are all moving onto higher education. Recent studies like United Way’s ALICE study and the Prosperity Project show that low-income residents of Whatcom County continue to struggle to find safe, affordable housing. According to US Census data, 56% of renters in Whatcom County are burdened by the high cost of housing, spending more than 30% of their household income on rent. This makes it more difficult for them to meet other basic needs, such as food, healthcare and education. Through this new partnership, United Way will help 240 clients achieve stability and be lifted out of poverty.

Rebound Roots through Rebound of Whatcom County

The third newly funded program, Rebound of Whatcom County’s Rebound Roots, provides parents and their children side- by- side support to encourage positive behavior, classes that teach positive coping skills, anger management, self-awareness techniques, and communication skills for children and families dealing with behavioral and emotional issues. They have a very high success rate with 90% who attend the parent classes showing a modest to significant increase in parenting confidence. Multiple studies show that trauma early in life can lead to a variety of issues later on such as depression, substance abuse, and anxiety. In fact, more than one- in- four youth in Whatcom County experience serious depressive symptoms, and approximately one in six youth contemplate suicide. With United Way’s grant Rebound Root’s will be able to provide expanded support for 400 children and their families on their path toward health and healing, and successful integration into social settings.

30+ Long-Time Program Partners

Not only is United Way of Whatcom County partnering with these three new programs, but will also be continuing support for several long-time programs. Here are some examples of the great programs they will be supporting this year:

Affordable Childcare at the Bellingham Child Care and Learning Center
Academic Success and Healthy Lifestyles Programs at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County
Childcare and after school programs at the Whatcom Family YMCA
Food Distribution at the Bellingham Food Bank
Transitional Housing at Northwest Youth Services
Literacy Tutoring for Adults through the Whatcom Literacy Center
Child Abuse Prevention through Brigid Collins Family Support Center
Senior Nutrition at the Whatcom Council on Aging
Abuse recovery and housing services through Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County

These are just some examples of the many programs United Way of Whatcom County is partnering with, check out unitedwaywhatcom.org for the full list of partners. In addition to these funded programs, United Way of Whatcom County also provides the FamilyWize Prescription Discount Program, Kindergarten Readiness Calendars for all pre-kindergarten children, and is the fiscal sponsors of Project Homeless Connect. More projects and programs will receive support throughout the year.

Local Donations to United Way of Whatcom County Made all of this Possible

The funds for these grants, and all of United Way’s work is made possible by local donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations to United Way of Whatcom County’s Annual Campaign. Overall recently $343,380 was granted to Education programs and projects, $316,536 was granted to Financial Stability programs and projects, and $266,175 was granted to Health programs and projects. More United Way of Whatcom County program investments and sponsorships will happen throughout the year and another $169,000 will be contributed to donor-specified programs.

Experienced Bellingham Event Planner Launches Wildflower Events

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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Submitted by Wildflower Events

Lindsay Perout of Bellingham recently launched Wildflower Events, offering clients as much assistance as they need in planning and executing diverse occasions.

Perout has nine years of experience in organizing weddings, company events, non-profit fundraisers, family gatherings and holiday parties for groups as large as 400 people. She’s developed relationships with many of the area’s top venues, caterers, florists, photographers, rental companies and DJs.

“I’ll always give my client choices based on their budget and preferences,” Perout said. “When it comes to the day of the event, I can be involved as much or as little as a client wants.”

With her experience and knowledge of local vendors, Perout says she can plan events efficiently and smoothly, enabling clients, guests and employees to enjoy the experience.

For more information, call Perout at 360-223-9814 or visit www.WildflowerEvents.net.

10 Tips for Savvy Bellingham Farmers Market Shopping

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LocalTalk Contributor

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Submitted by Bellingham Farmers Market

There’s really no wrong way to shop the Bellingham Farmers Market. But savvy market regulars follow these Bellingham Farmers Market shopping tips:

Getting There

Bike, take the bus or walk to the Bellingham Farmers Market. Parking can be tight, so skip the hassle of circling downtown in your car and hop on your bike, lace up your shoes or catch a ride with the Whatcom Transportation Authority. You say you need your car? Choose the Commercial Street Parking Garage (formerly known as the Parkade before marketing-minded city employees renamed it). Regardless of what you call it, the five-story garage on Commercial Street is within easy walking distance of the market — and parking is free on Saturdays.

Whatcom Smart Trips has joined with the Bellingham Farmers Market to encourage more folks to bike, walk and ride the bus to the popular Saturday Market. Make a Smart Trip to the market in August and September and you could win big — two randomly chosen participants that log their Smart Trip at the Information Booth with each visit to the market will be entered to win. The winners of two drawings — one for August and one for September — will each win $500 in a combination of Market Bucks and farmers market merchandise.

BYOBag

Bring your own bags. It’s Bellingham. This is pretty much a given no matter where you shop. But BYOBag is especially important at the Bellingham Farmers Market where farmers don’t have the option of paper or plastic. Sturdy, washable canvas or nylon bags work best.

Bonus tip: If you don’t intend to use the veggie tops, ask the farmer to remove and compost them for you. Removing the tops saves room in your bag and keeps vegetables fresh because tops rob produce of water.

Grab Cash Before You Go

Bring cash – preferably small bills. Farmers aren’t able to run to the bank for change during their market shifts. Help them out and come with small bills they are easily able to cash out. There are ATMs nearby, but save time and get cash well before you head out to the Market.

Biggers is Better

Buy in bulk. You’ll get the best prices when you buy lots of produce at its harvest peak. Buying in bulk also allows you to try new recipes and to freeze or store for times when today’s bulk purchase is no longer in season.

Leave Fido at Home

Leave your dog at home. Crowds, food and dogs don’t mix. There are a lot of great places to bring your best friend; the Saturday Market isn’t one of them. If you want to enjoy the market with your furry companion, come on down to the Wednesday Market in Fairhaven where the smaller crowds and Village Green provide a safer environment for your four-legged friend.

Handle with Care

Respect the produce. Don’t squeeze the product or pick through tender produce. Ask farmers to help you find perfectly ripe items.

Cook Seasonally

Ask for recipes. Farmers often have great, simple recipes that help seasonal vegetables shine.

Bruises = Bargains

Ask for seconds. If your veggies don’t need to look perfect (soup, pesto, sauces, jams, etc.), ask farmers if they have imperfect vegetables they are willing to sell at a lower price.

Prime Time

Shop early or shop late. For best selection, shop the market early. Popular seasonal items often sell out. Arrive at the end of the day for the best deals. But don’t expect deep discounts. Market sales are an important source of income for hard-working local farmers. The Market also tends to be less crowded at opening and end of day.

Attend a Demo

Take advantage of Demo Days and Chef in the Market events to learn more about seasonal products. Demo Days, a collaboration with Sustainable Connections, showcases simple ways to prepare seasonal produce. Join us the second Saturday of each month from May to October. Look for the big yellow sign near the Market’s Information Booth. Upcoming features include homemade pesto, zucchini dips and preserving tomatoes. Or, watch the experts at Chef in the Market, the third Saturday of each month. Two chefs from the Northwest Washington Chef’s Collaborative team up to create a delicious dish showcasing local ingredients and partnerships with local farmers. Come hungry and curious. There are lots of samples and recipes so that you can try it at home. Stay in touch with Bellingham Farmers Market events through social media, the Bellingham Farmers Market’s Newsletter and the Bellingham Farmers Market online.

Bellingham’s Mount Baker Theatre to Celebrate 90th Birthday in 2017

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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In 2017, Mount Baker Theatre (MBT) — the building — will celebrate its 90th birthday. On Saturday, April 29, 2017, MBT will host a community party with theatre-goers dressed in 1920s attire, birthday cake, signature drinks, and dancing on the main stage behind a world-class swing band. The true gift of this birthday party: What began as a luxe movie palace in 1927 has evolved to become a thriving performing arts center in Bellingham’s downtown Arts District.

Currently, MBT hosts more than 110,000 people in more than 400 annual events across its three venues. This is quite an accomplishment for what was a small town theatre in need of repair that was slated for demolition in the 1980s. This stunning community treasure was saved from the wrecking ball by a dedicated group of visionaries and volunteers who saw its future as Mount Baker Theatre “the community arts resource” as described by the Theatre’s current mission: To provide arts, entertainment and social interaction, which — through a wide variety of programs — results in personal enrichment, enjoyment and a sense of community for diverse audiences in the region. Additionally, the local theatre group strives to preserve the restored historic Mount Baker Theatre as a home for local performing arts organizations, film, a venue for touring performers and community events.

In a great example of civic partnership between city, county and community, a new structure emerged — the city-owned facility is managed by the Mount Baker Theatre Corporation, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. That 1980s wrecking ball was set aside to make room for other big changes — a gorgeous restoration and repurpose of existing spaces done in phases to arrive at the gem of a building we see today.

Since 1984, private support by the community has funded $14 million in capital improvements to the city’s building. The Hotel/Motel Tax was increased in the late 1990s to help fund the theatre’s management fee. Mount Baker Theatre in turn contributes approximately $90,000 annually to the city’s general fund in admissions and other taxes, acts as a community driver for arts tourism to the tune of $6 million in economic impact, and provides a professional event space for local entities such as the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra, various performing arts schools, film festivals, the technical college, and much more.

Becoming the premier cultural tourism destination for Whatcom County is something the Theatre achieves because it provides “access.” Patrons can experience world-class entertainment without having to travel to New York or even Seattle. This is important not just to Bellingham residents but across the region and to folks looking to combine elements of outdoors and culture in one vacation, as represented in this statistic — 40% of the people who have attended Theatre events reside outside Whatcom County.

“Access” is not just to entertainment from afar, but to the building itself as a world-class facility for local presenters. Our professionally managed historic stage hosts the little feet of local dance students, the walk of various college graduates, and well-heeled speakers from various civic and community groups. From ski films to local authors, the stunning theatrical setting can make local events “big.”

Because of this, MBT’s community of supporters is large and loyal. In addition to the 110,000 visitors through our doors each year, MBT has tracked 131,152 hours donated by passionate volunteers in the past 20 years. The STARS organization is a group of highly invested volunteers, and there are generally around 200 active volunteers on the roster for the organization at any given time. The theatre also inspires its 1,000 members to contribute $50 or more on an annual basis, and 85 business and individual sponsors underwrite around $356,000 in activities — an average of $4200 each!

The direct economic impact MBT makes on our local community is substantial. The theatre’s direct annual operating expenditures total $3,000,000. This includes $149,000 in lodging in local hotels and another $10,000 in artist hospitality. Additional artist-paid economic activity is estimated at another $275,000 in lodging plus ancillary spending for transportation, souvenirs and gifts, and meals and snacks. Patron spending, based on figures determined by the 2010 Arts and Economic Prosperity study from the Americans for the Arts, equates to an additional $2.7 million in direct spending associated with our 110,000 patrons. Mount Baker Theatre employs 17 full-time staff members, many part-time positions, and has a pool of 300 union stagehands that work productions coming from as far out as Seattle.

The economics are important, but the arts play another important role in a community’s “livability,” something that has become more and more important with increasing numbers of retirees and folks that work from their homes — people who move somewhere for its attributes, not because of a job or family. Arts provide diversity, innovation, collaboration, and a host of other vital attributes that go into making a healthy, thriving community. Mount Baker Theatre brings not only headlining performers and international touring acts to our community but also curates an Education Series that provided more than 17,000 regional children access to professional arts curriculum last year.

Mount Baker Theatre is looking forward to 2017 and intends to spend the entire year celebrating this unique partnership that keeps a thriving community asset alive and strong.

Get updates on the birthday party and keep current on all MBT events by subscribing to “This Week at MBT,” a weekly email outlining all events happening in the building.

The Mount Baker Theatre, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting the performing arts, receives support from a Tourism Facilities Grant from the City of Bellingham.

Prepped and Portioned — Bellingham’s Pre-Planned Meal Options Give Families the Gift of Time

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Jennifer Dodge

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pre planned meals featured — The ingredients of each Acme Farms + Kitchens are carefully chosen from local sources. Photo credit: ACME Farms + Kitchen.

From sports and full-time jobs to school activities, families and professionals today are busier than ever and pressed for time every day.

Healthy lifestyles, while a priority, can be a tough commitment when schedules are packed.

“My goal is to give back to the community in such a way that it creates the opportunity to actually get back time,” says Oleg Vetkov, owner of Salt, Pepper & Oil in Bellingham.

Salt, Pepper & Oil, located at 4073 Hannegan Road, Suite B, offers high quality, ready-to-cook meals at affordable prices. What makes Salt, Pepper & Oil so unique is a changing weekly menu, not to mention the average time of only 15 minutes to complete each meal. Giving back the gift of time is what Oleg does with his service — the time to shop and the time to prepare.

Locally sourced when available and emphasizing organic produce, free-range and pasture-raised meats, Oleg takes pride in the fact that he offers 11to 12 menu options each week for people looking for a high-quality meal in little time.

“Quality is important,” he says. “I want the food to be so good, you’ll want to come back time and time again.”

Two local working moms of toddlers had the same idea of giving and getting back time in 2011 when they started ACME Farms + Kitchen. They wanted to bring local, clean food into their homes without the exhausting time it took to find it, figure out how to use it and then finally prepare it in a family friendly way.

After finding a way to make it easier for families and professionals to access and shop for these local foods, they realized that what people really needed to save time was a preparation plan and good recipes. The plan would include how to use these local and seasonal foods to create amazing, family friendly dishes.

ACME Farms + Kitchen’s Locavore Boxes were born out of that plan and research for recipes. These boxes contain an array of local and seasonal food paired with recipes and a meal plan. Customers place their orders online for the specific Locavore Box that fits their needs and that box is delivered right to their doorsteps. The selection of the Locavore Boxes varies to meet different lifestyles from the Getaway Box to the Happy Hour Box to the Paleo Locavore Box. The complete meal boxes come in different sizes with enough food and essentials to create anywhere from three to five meals.

ACME Farms + Kitchen Localvore Box — Each week the Locavore Box is packed and delivered right to the customer. Photo credit: ACME Farms + Kitchen.

“I love the idea that the service we provide frees up so much time,” says Michelle Grandy, Director of Marketing, ACME Farms + Kitchens.

But what makes ACME Farms + Kitchens unique is what they provide beyond the meal. In addition to the main ingredients, each box includes basic essentials needed for that week’s meals, including cheese, eggs and even milk, all locally sourced and delicious. Ingredients aside, it’s the experience that sets these boxes apart.

“We’re hearing that the actual meal creation is becoming the favorite time for families,” Michelle says of the feedback she gets from customers. “One couple told us that they are so busy they don’t have time to shop or even to spend much time together. They look forward to preparing their meals together each day. And the reward for that time spent together is a great meal.”

Recently, ACME Farms + Kitchen launched a new program in limited release, the School Lunch Box program. This program gives families yet another option that saves time while delivering good, clean food. These lunch boxes provide school kids with a healthy, pre-planned lunch for the school day.

And taking the prep time right out of meal time is just what Ciao Thyme does with their CT2GO meals that can be ordered online.

With a full-time chef dedicated to creating a menu of completely prepared meals, CT2GO provides families and busy professionals with high-quality meals, ready to go. Most of the meals simply need to be heated and ready to serve in a glass container when customers pick them up a the Ciao Thyme location at 207 Unity Street in Bellingham.

From options such as Taco Salad to Tangled Thai, each handmade, high-quality meal is prepared to feed four to six people.

And customers can always stop in and check out what’s in the freezer and ready for a quick meal or even to bring to a dinner party for a fast and easy addition to the menu.

Spending time with family and friends in our busy days is a priority. ACME Farms + Kitchen and Salt, Pepper & Oil and Ciao Thyme all deliver their services with that same priority and purpose. By creating menus and ready-to-cook options, families and professionals can enjoy more time together creating memories while still enjoying high quality, locally-sourced foods.

5 Tips for Using WhatcomTalk’s LocalTalk Section

By

WhatcomTalk Editor

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WhatcomTalk LocalTalk — WhatcomTalk's LocalTalk page is a great way for local businesses, organizations and non-profits to share news and information with our Whatcom County readers. ©WhatcomTalk.

WhatcomTalk publishes articles daily, sharing what it’s like to live, work and play in Whatcom County. Each article is categorized on our homepage into topics, such as sports, history or activities. The categories make it easy to find what you are looking for or to browse articles of interest.

One category heading is LocalTalk. This section of our site is reserved for content created and submitted by our customers and community partners. It’s here that you can get the latest press releases and informative articles from local businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies and other groups. Often, these stories share business milestones, upcoming events and tips you can use in your daily life.

We often are asked to share tips on what makes a great LocalTalk post. There are several key features that make LocalTalk articles more interesting and relevant to our readers. By following the tips below, your LocalTalk posts will not only look great on our site, but they’ll better engage our readers as well.

Consider the Length

Articles submitted should be between 400 and 800 words. Of course, there is wiggle room in that number, but readers tend to lose interest if content stretches too far beyond the 800-word limit.

Target a Specific Audience

When crafting an article for the LocalTalk section, remember your audience. You are writing for the broad WhatcomTalk audience throughout Whatcom County. Choose topics that are relevant and of interest to the community. Sharing personal profiles, inspirational success stories, user-friendly “tip” style articles, or information people can use to plan activities and outings are some of the most successful stories we publish.

Provide Engaging Photos

We are visual people and WhatcomTalk readers love to see photos with each of our published stories. By providing three or more quality images, sized between 500kb and 1MB, your story will shine. Images should include photographs of the people profiled in the story, action shots of events and activities, or scenic photos that help to expand and illustrate the story you have written. Avoid static style images such as buildings and signage. Instead, choose photos (or snap a few with your phone!) to help the reader engage with the story on a more personal level.

It’s very helpful to include cutlines (captions) with your photos. These will enhance the article by sharing additional information about the subject(s) in the photo. Remember — people are visual and they often will read the photo captions first. If these capture their interest, they are more likely to read the full article. Please also include any photo credit where necessary. When not included, we will include “Photo courtesy: ______.”

WhatcomTalk LocalTalk community partners — Community partners can share information about upcoming events with our readers simply by utilizing WhatcomTalk’s LocalTalk page. ©WhatcomTalk.

Format Before Submitting

LocalTalk articles and press releases should be submitted as Word documents. Photos should not be embedded within the document. Instead, attach the document and any photos to an email addressed to submit@whatcomtalk.com. Keep your text formatting simple. When we upload to our website, we utilize a variety of text features that do not always translate from your document. LocalTalk articles are typically published within a few days of submission. If you have questions regarding your post or find a formatting or photo error, simply email us and we’ll be happy to help.

Write Shareable Stories

The most important tip we can provide is to write stories that people will share. Include mentions of other local organizations and groups (and hyperlink the names to their websites). When the story is published, you can share the WhatcomTalk URL with each group and they can, in turn, share these stories through social media and email. By crafting stories with a wide umbrella of interest, you expand the article’s reach and your organization or business’s exposure. Stories of individual triumph or achievement are shared by proud parents or employers. Articles celebrating a team triumph can be shared by each member. Community collaborations can be distributed by each group involved.

WhatcomTalk’s LocalTalk section is a great way to utilize our extensive community social network already in place. WhatcomTalk’s Publishing team will edit LocalTalk submissions for grammar and punctuation prior to publishing, but taking a little extra time to review and implement the five tips above will help your LocalTalk posts stand out.

WhatcomTalk is a digital media company sharing positive stories about people, places and businesses in Whatcom County. WhatcomTalk offers content marketing and online options to advertise across our community social network in Bellingham, Lynden, Ferndale and beyond. Advertise with WhatcomTalk to reach your target market, grow your brand, and measure results.

East Meets West at the Spice Hut in Bellingham

By

Patricia Herlevi

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The Spice Hut serves unique customers from local chefs to new mothers and whole sale outlets across North America. Photo credit: Tanvir Sidhu.

Stepping into Spice Hut, shoppers are immediately immersed into a world of traditions. Eyes roam to the back of the shop featuring canisters of 220 loose teas that arrived in Bellingham from far-flung regions of the world. The walls painted in burnt orange and the containers of teas and spices that pepper the shop invite everyone from chefs to tea connoisseurs to peruse the goods.

And if sniffing the tea blends at the sampling station situated in the shop’s center doesn’t engage the senses, Spice Hut owner Mundir Sidhu provides a seating area at the front of the shop for customers to savor the teas. In addition to the teas, the shop offers 120 spices and herbs and 40 seasonings produced locally at the warehouse on Axton Road. Mundir carefully sources her ingredients internationally.

According to Mundir and her son Tanvir, who helps co-run the business, “The spices and teas are handmade, certified organic, certified non-GMO, and no salts are added.” This fresh and locally-made approach has worked for the Spice Hut team. Since the shop’s launch in 2004, word-of-mouth reached local eateries such as Black Drop Coffee and Mount Bakery who collaborate with Mundir. Tanvir adds, “We make special spices for chefs.”

Mundir Sidhu, minority woman owner and founder of the Spice Hut in Cordata. Photo credit:

The biggest sellers to date are the English tea blends and spice mixes with both chefs and beginning cooks in mind. Mundir includes recipes on the packages. She sells seasonings for Mexican, Thai, Indian and other exotic dishes we love. And for the truly adventurous, Mundir adds, “People want to try new flavors.”

When asked to choose a favorite tea, Mundir pauses, chuckles and then mentions that she prefers a black Chai or the Japanese matcha and gyokuro (green) teas to start her day. Having sampled a black chai, the reason seems evident. Incidentally, the shop also sells teas that act as sleep aids. And local doctors have recommended the shop to new mothers.

With Bellingham’s ever expanding ethnic diversity, an exotic tea shop in Cordata, only a few blocks away from the Community Food Coop’s Cordata store, makes perfect sense. However, in 2004 when Mundir first opened the shop on Kellogg Road, the shop served a different demographic. Born in India’s Punjabi region, Mundir’s family relocated to British Columbia when she was around 8 years old. She relocated to Lynden in the late 1980s with her family.

In regard to pedaling exotic spices, locally-sourced herbs, and international teas, Mundir mentions that she has always had a passion for cooking. And she enjoys mixing spices and teas. “Teas and spices are in my blood.”

Tanvir also shares his love for the shop’s fine ingredients. “I grew up drinking teas and eating meals cooked with fresh herbs and spices. I developed an interest in cooking and experimenting with foods from all over the world. Having gourmet spices at my fingertips has allowed me to take my love for cooking to the next level!”

The Spice Hut offers its own tea blends, unique for Bellinghamsters. Photo credit: Tanvir Sidhu.

Tanvir brings his own expertise to his mother’s business. “I went to school for business and began to involve myself in different levels of the company. Being able to share our passion for high quality gourmet spices and teas with our customers has been a very rewarding experience.”

Mundir and Tanvir also place effort on community building as they enjoy interacting with customers and sourcing the best ingredients, many of which are often mixed in the shop while the customers watch. And while customers wait they can also peruse Spice Hut’s website and blog where they receive education about the origins of their favorite teas.

The Spice Hut qualifies as a woman minority owned business. Tied in with the entrepreneur spirit of Whatcom County, Bellingham in particular, we can see why Bellinghamsters frequent the shop. And let’s not leave out Canadian customers who brave the border to purchase their teas. From its distribution center on Axton Road, The Spice Hut sells to 60 wholesale outlets. And between the shop and wholesale, Mundir and Tanvir keep a busy schedule.

While Bellingham has its share of women-owned herbal shops and natural food stores that sell an array of teas and spices (loose and bagged), the Spice Hut offers a unique experience. From the Buddha statue that greets customers as they walk through the door to the rows of gleaming glass jars that line the walls, east meets west here and there’s a feeling of traditions passed down to younger generations.

The Spice Hut mixes its own herb blends fresh, sometimes while customers wait for their special orders. Photo credit: Tanvir Sidhu.

While the Spice Hut is not a medicinal healing herb shop, customers choose from the wide offering to create their own blends. The shop owners assure that they sell the freshest and finest herbs to flavor a dish or assist new mothers (under doctor recommendation). And who wouldn’t enjoy relaxing with a cup of tea in a cozy shop that promotes folk wisdom?

To see the vast selection of spices and teas for yourself, visit the Spice Hut online, in person at its Cordato location (131 W Kellogg Road), or call 350-671-2800 for more information.

Swim, Paddle, Float — Where to Beat the Summer Heat in Whatcom County

By

Brandon Fralic

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Use the docks at Lake Padden to launch watercraft or jump in the lake. ©WhatcomTalk.

Summer has officially arrived. With June-uary behind us and the dog days upon us, we can finally soak up the sunshine we’ve all been waiting for. But what if it gets too warm? The name “Whatcom” itself is derived from the Nooksack word for “noisy water.” Whatcom’s waters await to cool us off. So dust off your swimsuits, tubes, paddles, and boards — it’s time to beat the heat.

Take a Swim

Swimming — whether in a lake, creek, or tarn — is the surest way to cool off when temperatures soar. Fortunately, Whatcom County has no shortage of chilly waters. Here are a few suggestions to start with.

Bloedel Donovan Park

bloedel park bellingham — Bloedel Donovan Park is one of the places to dip your toes around Bellingham during sunny summer days. ©WhatcomTalk.

Lake Whatcom’s Bloedel Donovan Park features a popular swimming beach. With a playground across the lawn, picnic tables, barbecue grills, and a nearby boat launch, Bloedel Donovan Park is a great spot for families to relax beside the lake. For an easy, shaded hike beneath tree cover, follow Whatcom Creek along the Railroad Trail to Whatcom Falls Park.

Whatcom Falls Park

Whatcom County is home to an abundance of waterfalls. Among them, Whatcom Falls’ cascades are the most accessible from Bellingham. Walk into Whirlpool Falls to experience the rush of Whatcom Creek at this popular swimming hole. Whirlpool’s punchbowl is not supervised, and cliff-jumpers take the plunge at their own risk.

Lake Padden Park

Another family favorite, Lake Padden offers excellent swimming opportunities for kids and adults. Motorized boats are not allowed on the lake, making for a friendly swimming environment. The drive-up beaches can get rather crowded, so try walking around to the far side of the lake for some solitude. Padden’s docks make for great jumping off points. Just be sure to give watercraft the right-of-way in these areas.

Float the River

Tubing the Nooksack River is a classic summer experience in Whatcom County. While there’s certainly more than one way to do it, we suggest floating the South Fork between Acme and Van Zandt. Stop in at the Everybody’s Store to stock up on snacks and fill your tubes with air. With a group of friends, leave one car in Van Zandt and another in Acme for a 3 – 5 hour leisurely float. Always be sure to park legally and respect alcohol laws — police patrol the area regularly.

Mountain Lakes

Hike to Lake Ann in the shadow of Mount Shuksan to swim at nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. ©WhatcomTalk.

Don’t forget the Chuckanuts and North Cascades. There are far too many lakes to list here, so we’ll suggest a few favorites. In the Chuckanuts, hike into Lost Lake or Fragrance Lake for a workout and a dip. Squires Lake is a quiet little getaway tucked in at the foot of Lookout Mountain — great for a short hike and swim. Head out Mount Baker Highway for big hikes and beautiful alpine lakes. Try Lake Ann near Mount Shuksan, Twin Lakes at the base of Winchester Mountain or Chain Lakes for Mount Baker views.

Paddle the Bay and Lakes

Paddling comes in many forms. You can kayak or canoe, stand-up paddle (SUP) or row. If you don’t have your own human-powered watercraft, rentals are available throughout the county.

Bellingham Bay

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

Beginner paddlers and those without access to boats can learn to paddle at the Community Boating Center. A variety of rentals are available here, including kayaks, SUP boards, and rowboats. Rentals must stay within Bellingham and Chuckanut Bays — allowing plenty of exploration for most boaters. Those seeking greater adventures across Bellingham Bay can paddle to Lummi Island for a memorable camping trip. Or launch from Wildcat Cove for unlimited possibilities.

Lakewood

On the western shore of Lake Whatcom, Lakewood is a 4,000 square foot boathouse operated by Western Washington University. WWU students, alumni, and staff can rent watercraft at Lakewood for a discounted rate. Rentals are also available to the general public at standard rates and include over 60 watercraft from canoes and kayaks to sailboards and more. Lakewood is an excellent place to learn paddlesports on the relatively calm waters of Lake Whatcom.

Paddle Sport at Lake Padden

Want to paddle at Lake Padden, but need a rental? Yeager’s has you covered. They offer paddleboard and kayak rentals at the lake during summer months. In 2016, rentals are available every weekend (Friday- Sunday, 12pm – 6pm) through September 4.

North Cascades Highway

Take your kayak on tour to one of several large lakes in the North Cascades. Baker Lake offers a massive playground for paddlers, with countless beaches and several campgrounds for a weekend trip. Or launch from Colonial Creek Campground to paddle Diablo Lake. Three boat-in campsites are available along Diablo’s shores. Further north, Ross Lake hosts approximately 20 boat-in sites; rentals are available at Ross Lake Resort.

This list is far from exhaustive — we’ve only begun to dip our toes in Whatcom County’s “noisy water.” For further suggestions, see our list of top spots for kayaking.

Mount Baker Theatre Brings 2016–2017 Season to Community with Incredible Volunteer Support

By

Lorraine Wilde

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makes things funny — This is one journey you don't have to leave town to experience firsthand. Photo credit: Damian Vines/Mount Baker Theatre.

Almost 90 years ago, Mount Baker Theatre (MBT) was a luxurious movie palace — the only survivor of five built in the Bellingham-area at the time. Since then, with significant support from its involved volunteer and donor base, the theatre has evolved into the civic historic home to a premiere Pacific Northwest cultural tourism destination that helps sustains the regional community through its arts education programs and substantial economic impact.

Historic Building Provides Access to All

Mount Baker Theatre was built in 1927 in an exotic Spanish Moorish design meant to transport its small town patrons to another time and place. The building was placed on the National Historical Record in 1978, but by the 1980’s it was in need of significant repair and slated for demolition. In 1984, the community rallied and saved it by developing a partnership between the city, county and community that resulted in a city-owned facility managed by the Mount Baker Theatre Corporation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

Since then, taxes have helped to fund the theatre’s management and private support has supported more than $14 million in capital improvements that have transformed the theatre’s three venues that currently support more than 400 events and 110,000 visitors annually.

“Many people don’t know that this gorgeous building is run really efficiently and any funds we are able to make go right back into the community,” explains MBT Marketing Director, Amy Guerra. “We exist to enrich this wonderful town.”

Both area residents and tourists alike can see world-class entertainment without incurring the expense to travel to New York, Seattle, or Vancouver, B.C. Local performers and groups also have access to the restored building and professionally-managed stage to make their events incredible. The spaces are used by a wide variety of organizations including the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra, area performing arts schools, film festivals, Bellingham Technical College, and speakers from various civic and community groups. The Encore Room can be booked for use free of charge by arts non-profits through a community outreach program.

The theatre also hosts a number of educational programs that provide more than 17,000 regional children access to professional arts curriculum each year. Throughout the school year, the theatre plays host to stunning, culturally diverse traveling theatre groups that perform during the weekday for Whatcom and Skagit County’s public, private, and homeschool communities. Missoula Children’s Theatre also teaches theatre arts to children of all ages in their summer programs.

Mount Baker Theatre continues to invigorate a vibrant local economy. Various taxes contribute around $90,000 annually to the city’s general fund. Approximately 40% of event attendees reside outside Whatcom County, many combining elements of the outdoors and culture in one glorious vacation. In all, the theatre’s economic impact is placed at around $6 million, based partially on a study by Americans for the Arts. The theatre’s annual patrons contribute $2.7 million in direct spending with our community’s businesses in the form of lodging, hospitality, meals, souvenirs and transportation. Many of those same services are also used by the performing artists who briefly pass through to grace the stage, representing additional economic impact.

The theatre also stimulates the local economy just by operating in this beautiful city — its annual operating expenditures totaling $3 million. Seventeen full-time staff, many part-time positions, and a pool of 300 union stagehands live and work productions in our community.

Tremendous Volunteer and Donor Support

“We couldn’t do all that we do without our volunteers and donors,” explains Executive Director Brad Burdick. “We have a very well established group of about 250 active volunteers called STARS that are led by an 18-member Steering Committee. You may see them as ushers or in reception but they do so much more. They build sets, find the squeaky seats to be fixed, help with renovations, and aid in marketing as our ambassadors during tours, special events, and out in the community. They currently average about 12,000 volunteer hours annually.”

Mount Baker Theatre volunteers — STARS Steering Committee President Evelyn Turner leads a group of at least 250 devoted, active volunteers. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.

Mount Baker Theatre Development Director, John Purdie, adds, “The STARS have a sense of ownership and deep love of the building and the wider picture of its role in the community. We have a great respect and gratitude for their leadership. Evidence of their contribution is all around the building.” Over the last 20 years, STARS volunteers have donated more than 131,152 hours in support of the theater.

This group of highly invested volunteers is led by three-time Steering Committee President, Evelyn Turner, who has been volunteering at MBT for more than 5 years. “The STARS make the theatre a better place and therefore the community a better place,” explains Turner. “Every staff member is vocal about their appreciation for what we add to the experience.” Several have donated a sensational number of hours including five volunteers who have reached 2,500 hours, 21 who have logged more than 1,000 hours, and 38 that have exceeded 500 hours. “The volunteers hours keep costs low — the equivalent of seven full-time staff — and help the theatre expose people to the arts that could not otherwise afford it or it’s just not a part of their lives,” adds Turner. “Our education programs bring thousands and thousands of children exposure to the arts at a cost of only a few dollars per child. As funding for the arts has been cut, we are able to keep the arts alive. That’s a huge give back to the community.”

The theatre also inspires its 1,000 Members to contribute $50 or more on an annual basis, while 85 business and individual sponsors underwrite around $356,000 in activities, an average of $4,200 each. “We welcome everyone to join in supporting us through membership,” explains Purdie.

90th Birthday Celebration Planned

To honor Mount Baker Theatre’s 90th year, a community party is planned for Saturday, April 29, 2017. Theatre-goers will be invited to dress in 1920’s attire and join in with the spirit of time, in which the theatre was born. “We’ll eat birthday cake, enjoy signature cocktails, and dance on the main stage behind a world-class swing band,” says Guerra of the special party being planned.

2016-17 Season Launch Open House and On-Sale

To launch the new season, MBT and its volunteers will host an Open House and open ticketing to the public for 24 upcoming world-class events on Sunday, July 24, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The celebration’s theme, “There’s a Whole Wide World in Here,” encourages patrons to discover the joy and escape of attending the theatre itself, and see that attending a show is a destination, a vacation. The season’s shows are impressive, including Alton Brown, Wynton Marsalis, Vince Gill, Ben Folds, the musicals “Once,” “Fame,” and “Mamma Mia!,” Houston Ballet II, Garrison Keillor, and the Irish Tenors — to name a few.

Attendees can collect passport stamps for prizes as they tour the building including backstage, see video and audio of upcoming performances, and autograph the Main Stage. The afternoon is packed with family-friendly activities like paper airplane launches from the balcony and kids’ face painting in the backstage dressing rooms, all to the tune of the pipe organ. Local vendors Village Books will offer show-related materials for sale and Boundary Bay Brewery will have local brews in an on-site beer garden. The afternoon’s prizes will also include several chances to win free show tickets. The whole family will enjoy this festive afternoon while staff and volunteers help patrons book their 2016–17 seats and packages.

The majestic Mount Baker Theatre brings so much to the community as a performing arts centerpiece, providing access and education to both locals and tourists of every age. With the help and hard work of staff, volunteers and donors, the theatre is looking forward to celebrating its 90^th year as a vital part of this lovely community.

2016-17 Season Launch! Open House and On-Sale
Sunday, July 24, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
www.facebook.com/events/1561439870824716

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

Busker Strangely Doesburg Adds a Sense of Whimsey to Bellingham Farmers Market

By

Sara Holodnick

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Strangely playing bass — Strangely performing at Bellingham Farmers Market with the Free Range Reveleers: Ani Banani (banjolele/banjo ukulele) and Banjo Youngblood (banjo). Photo credit: Jonathan Williams Photography.

Buskers and performers are part of the fabric of the Bellingham Farmers Market. Sure, they offer entertainment and spectacle, but their presence is more grounding than that. There’s something uniquely beautiful and whimsical about seeing people perform in such close quarters. And if any performer at the market exudes whimsy, it’s Strangely Doesburg.

Strangely grew up in Whatcom County. From reading books to exploring historical markers between Bellingham and the Grand Canyon, Strangely absorbs knowledge every chance he gets. Performance has been a part of his life for a long time, acting in musicals throughout his youth. But his love for the spotlight started well before he stood on a stage.

Strangely playing accordian — Strangely aims to provide audiences with a sense of wonder and awe that can be hard to come by in our digital age. “If I can, even for a moment, make an audience feel that profound little tickle of whimsey, I’ve done my job.” Photo courtesy: Strangely.

“In a sense, I’ve always been performing,” said Strangely. “I started taking piano lessons at the age of 4 and regularly participated in the arts at various local institutions throughout my childhood. I especially enjoyed the roar of the crowd.” After dropping out of film school in Los Angeles, Strangely started performing with a few local and national circus troupes.

“Things sort of snowballed from there,” Strangely shared. “I’m not very interested in pure circus anymore because it feels a bit narrow, with a high focus and priority placed on physical skills to the detriment of audience interaction, which I find to be the best part of live shows.”

Strangely’s influences range from Wisconsin Slim and Tomàs Ford to Andy Kaufman and The Muppets, and his skills are as wide-ranging as the artists who inspire him. Today he describes himself as an independent cabaret musician, specializing in everything from singing and playing the accordion to juggling, dancing and acrobatics.

Strangely has been performing seriously for nearly a decade now. He started busking at the Bellingham Farmers Market about four years ago, often performing with other musicians.

“The Bellingham market is pretty much the best place to perform on a weekly basis,” Strangely said. “It’s lucrative enough to make it worth it, and the crowds are very generous and friendly.” In addition to supporting his livelihood, busking at the Bellingham Farmers Market serves as something of a laboratory for Strangely.

Strangely performs at Bellingham Farmers Market — Strangely performing at Bellingham Farmers Market with the Free Range Reveleers: Ani Banani (banjolele/banjo ukulele) and Banjo Youngblood (banjo). Photo credit: Jonathan Williams Photography.

“The biggest benefit is that I have a weekly place to work out new material and songs when I’m in town,” he shared. The close interaction with friendly crowds gives him and other performers the opportunity to see how audiences might react before taking a show on the road.

But no matter where he’s performing, Strangely’s goal is to restore a sense of awe and curiosity to audiences.

“A large part of my performing is inspired by the change I want to see in the world,” he said. “I feel like one of the things people have lost in this increasingly digital age is a sense of wonder — that childlike awe at the sheer majesty and magic that is all around us. One of the reasons I like touring mainly on a bicycle is that when I arrive somewhere I’ve rolled in as a kind of thing from another time. If I can, even for a moment, make an audience feel that profound little tickle of whimsy, I’ve done my job.”

If he’s in town, you’ll likely catch Strangely performing at the Saturday Bellingham Farmers Market in Downtown Bellingham. You can keep up with Strangely’s performances on his website (strangelyandfriends.com) and on Facebook at (facebook.com/Strangely). You can also connect with him on Instagram and Twitter (@IAmStrangely).

Decisions Were Based on Helping ALICE and those in Poverty

Parent Support Program – Lydia Place

Service-Enriched Farm Worker Housing through Mercy Housing Northwest

Rebound Roots through Rebound of Whatcom County

30+ Long-Time Program Partners

Local Donations to United Way of Whatcom County Made all of this Possible

Getting There

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Biggers is Better

Leave Fido at Home

Handle with Care

Cook Seasonally

Bruises = Bargains

Prime Time

Attend a Demo

Consider the Length

Target a Specific Audience

Provide Engaging Photos

Format Before Submitting

Write Shareable Stories

Take a Swim

Bloedel Donovan Park

Whatcom Falls Park

Lake Padden Park

Float the River

Mountain Lakes

Paddle the Bay and Lakes

Bellingham Bay

Lakewood

Paddle Sport at Lake Padden

North Cascades Highway

Historic Building Provides Access to All

Tremendous Volunteer and Donor Support

90th Birthday Celebration Planned

2016-17 Season Launch Open House and On-Sale

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