A Guide to Whatcom County’s Farmers Markets

Bellingham Farmers Market is home to a wide range of vendors selling high-quality products. Photo credit: Camryn Jewell

As our summer finally begins and the weather warms up, local farmers markets are back in business. Throughout the county, customers and vendors gather to buy and sell locally grown produce, handcrafted arts, homemade goods, and more.

While these markets are a great opportunity to stock up on groceries and gifts, they also provide a chance for locals to connect with their communities.

For long-time county residents, it’s likely you’ll run into an old friend at these markets. For those new to the area, there’s no better place to get outside this summer and create new connections. Whatcom County is lucky to have a vast array of farmers market options, all of which support local farmers and help to promote the often-highlighted farm to table movement. Below is a list of all of the major markets taking place across the county for summer 2024.

Bellingham Farmers Market

Bellingham Farmers Market is the largest on this list, and hosts a wide variety of vendors. Located in the heart of downtown Bellingham, you’ll find folks selling produce, crafts, jewelry, and more. Don’t miss the assortment of ready-to-eat foods from a wide array of cuisines to can snack on as you explore.

Date and time: every Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Start and end dates: April through 3rd week of December
Location: 1100 Railroad Avenue in downtown Bellingham

For more information, visit the Bellingham Farmers Market website.

bellingham farmers market
Photo credit: Stacee Sledge

Lynden Farmers Market

The Lynden Farmers Market offers many unique programs to support its community. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment offered every Saturday while grabbing a bite from local food trucks. Support the ambitious kids in the Young Entrepreneurs Program, which gives local children the opportunity to try their hand at running a business. The Food Access Program allows for the use of WIC, SNAP/EBT, and Senior-FMNP to buy local produce.

Date and time: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Start and end dates: June 1 through September 28
Location: Corner of 4th & Grover in Lynden

For more information, visit the Lynden Farmers Market website.

With an inclusive Food Access Program, everyone is welcome to enjoy the products sold at the Lynden Farmers Market. Photo credit: Camryn Jewell

Barkley Farmers Market

The Barkley Farmers Market is a lovely way to spend your Thursday afternoons this summer.

Offering a kids’ storytime hosted by the Bellingham Public Library, live music, food trucks, and a wide variety of vendors, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Stop by and stay awhile to enjoy all that the Barkley Farmers Market — and Barkley Village itself — has to offer.

Date and time: Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Start and end dates: July 11 through August 29
Location: Barkley Village Green, 2215 Rimland Drive, Bellingham

For more information, visit the Barkley Farmers Market website.

Rome Grange Farmers Market

The Rome Grange Farmers Market is conveniently located right off the Mount Baker Highway and serves the Grange’s mission of promoting rural agricultural community connection. Vendors from around the county offer locally grown produce, hand-made crafts, and artisanal home and body products.

Date and time: Fridays, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Start and end dates: June 7 through September 27
Location: Rome Grange 226, 2821 Mount Baker Highway outside Bellingham

For more information, visit the Rome Grange Farmers Market website.

Stop by the Rome Grange Farmers Market to enjoy live music and fresh produce from local vendors. Photo credit: Camryn Jewell

Everson Farmers Market

With its unique weekly market schedule, the Everson Farmers Market is constantly offering new and exciting vendors. Each Sunday offers a theme to accompany its regular produce and craft vendors.

The weekly rotation is as follows: 1st Sunday of the month is a health and wellness market, 2nd Sunday is a young entrepreneurs market, 3rd Sunday is an art walk market, and the 4th Sunday is a music market. The Everson Farmers Market will close out its season on September 29th with a harvest market festival.

Its convenient location near downtown Everson provides access to basketball courts and a playground, making it the perfect place to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Date and time: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Start and end dates: May 5 through September 29
Location: Everson City Park at 201 Lincoln Street in Everson

For more information, visit the Everson Farmers Market website.

Everson Farmers Market offers a unique schedule to promote a variety of vendors. Photo Credit: Camryn Jewell Photo credit: Camryn Jewell

Blaine Farmers Market

Enjoy beautiful water views as you shop the Blaine Farmers Market. If you’re looking for handmade crafts and unique gifts, this is the place for you. You’ll also find a selection of local restaurants within walking distance, many with outdoor seating to enjoy after your stroll through the market.

Date and time: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Start and end dates: Now through October 14
Location: G Street Plaza & Peace Portal Drive in Blaine

For more information, visit the Blaine Farmers Market website.

All Dogs Go To Fairhaven — Best in Show at the Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema!

Photo courtesy Fairhaven Association

Submitted by Fairhaven Association

The Fairhaven Association kicks off week two of the Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema with the cult classic “Best in Show” A fun parody of dog shows that everyone will love!

The nonprofit Shadow’s Forever Friends will be our guest and hosting a pet food drive. We encourage you to bring your well-behaved pets and enjoy the show together, dress them up for a blue ribbon!

The Sweet Goodbyes will kick off the evening with live entertainment at 8 p.m., and the movie starts at dusk (about 9:35 p.m.).

The Village Green will be blocked off at 6 p.m. and will require stamped entry.

2024 Schedule

July 20: Barbie / Pre-Movie Live Entertainment w. The Song Wranglers (Hum Yoga on the Green 6:30pm)

July 27: Raiders of the Lost Ark / Pre-Movie Live Entertainment w. Phil Paige

August 3: Super Mario Bros. The Movie / Pre-Movie Live Entertainment w. Triple Play

August 10: Twilight / Pre-Movie Live Entertainment w. Guitars & Gratitude

August 17: Pitch Perfect / Pre-Movie Live Entertainment w. The Brie Mueller Band (Hum Yoga on the Green 5:30pm)

August 24: The Princess Bride / Pre-Move Live Entertainment w. Kaith Carpenter & Lynne Givier

Keep track of all our summer happenings by going towww.enjoyfairhaven.com  or @EnjoyFairhaven on Facebook.

Price for movie entry is $7pp when paying cash / $8pp when paying by credit card. Concession will also be for sale.

Thank you to our event partners Epic Events and KAFE 104.1.

Event Sponsors; Village Books, First Fed, Keenan’s at The Chrysalis Inn & Spa, Fairhaven Post & Parcel, Bellingham Training & Tennis Club, Firehouse Arts & Events Center, Ben Kinney – Team Bellingham and Laura Sanderson – Insurance Broker.

Bells Kick off 2024 WCL All-Star Game Festivities With Community Champions Game

Photo credit: Andrew Forhan

Submitted by the Bellingham Bells

The Bellingham Bells are excited to announce the Community Champions game will kick off the 2024 West Coast League All-Star event, featuring a Tuesday, July 16th event with 2024 WCL All-Stars playing alongside athletes from the Max Higbee Center, a local nonprofit providing community-based recreation programs for youth and adults with developmental disabilities. Fifty percent of ticket sales will be donated to the Max Higbee Center, and all participants will have the opportunity to be introduced to the crowd pre-game, at which time they will be presented a jersey from a WCL alumni currently playing in Major League Baseball.

Fans can attend the game, which will feature special “Tuesdays are for the People” pricing presented by Peoples Bank. Tickets will be 50% off and there will be specials on food and beverage. Immediately following the game, there will be live music featuring local band Pure Halcyon.

2016/2017 Bellingham Bell and current Tampa Bay Rays infielder Austin Shenton is a long-standing supporter and fundraiser for the Max Higbee Center, and his brother Ian will participate in the game. Multiple other WCL alumni are expected to help support the event including 2018 Bellingham Bell and current Cincinnati Reds infielder Matt McLain and many others.

Photo credit: Andrew Forhan

“The Community Champions game is a wonderful way to kick off a very special event,” Bells general manager Stephanie Morrell said. “We are thankful to the Max Higbee Center for partnering with us and for the support of our WCL alumni to make this event extra memorable for our participants. We are so excited to have the opportunity to showcase our wonderful community over this two-day event and thought there was no better way to kick it off than highlighting some impressive athletes from the Max Higbee Center, while at the same time being able to help them fundraise. We can’t wait for this event!”

The All-Star game event is the league’s most pronounced community effort in a decade and will feature a broadcast of Wednesday’s All-Star Game on MLB network at 6:35 p.m. PST.

Bellingham Area Student-Athletes Commit to College Football

Bellingham is set to increase its presence in college athletics this coming fall. Three student-athletes from Bellingham and Squalicum High School are preparing to join university teams next year, and more are expected to commit soon.

Joshua Tolle, Wide Receiver, Chapman University Commit

Josh Tolle, a wide receiver from Bellingham High School (BHS) boasting a 3.85 GPA, will further his academic and athletic journey at Chapman University in Orange, California.

“I would do it all over again if I could,” Tolle says of his senior season at BHS. “My football season was more than stats; football impacted and changed my future.”

During his senior year, Tolle considered offers from the University of Montana Northern, the University of Puget Sound, and the University of Redlands. Ultimately, he chose Chapman University for its scenic Southern California campus and its potential impact on the football field.

“I’ve coached Josh since he was in 1st grade. His growth throughout high school has been tremendous,” says BHS High School Football Coach, Adam Leonard. “This past season, he set multiple receiving records. His football IQ and physical abilities will translate well to the collegiate level.”

Josh Tolle with his brother, Cody, after a BHS game at Civic Stadium in Bellingham. Photo courtesy Adam Leonard

Josh Leonard, Quarterback, University of Puget Sound Commit

After graduating from BHS with a 3.4 GPA, Josh Leonard will continue his football career this fall at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma.

Leonard had offers from California Lutheran University, Willamette University, University of Redlands, University of LaVerne, University of Montana Western, University of Montana Northern, Clarke University, McPherson College, and Culver-Stockton College.

Leonard selected the University of Puget Sound for its academic prestige, picturesque campus, and robust football program and coaching staff.

“Besides his physical attributes, Josh has an outstanding football IQ, especially at the QB position,” Coach Leonard says. After transferring from Squalicum High School, Josh broke 10 Bellingham High School passing records this past season.

Josh Leonard also had the unique experience of playing football at BHS for his father and coach, Adam, who took over as the Bayhawks’ head coach in 2022.

“I believe Josh has the complete package to compete at a high level in college,” says Coach Leonard.

“I enjoyed playing at Bellingham High School,” says Josh, “and I’m excited to take the next step by playing college football at the University of Puget Sound.”

The UPS coaching staff was impressed with Leonard’s arm strength and accuracy, and hope he can add a new dimension to the offense.

Josh Leonard gets instructions from his father and coach, Adam, during a BHS game. Photo courtesy Adam Leonard

Colby Lewis, Squalicum High School, Offensive Line, University of Puget Sound Commit

Squalicum High School graduate Colby Lewis will join Leonard at UPS. He was named to the 2024 First Team All-Conference, the 2024 Northwest Athletics Conference Sportsmanship Award Winner, and the 2022 Second Team All-Conference.

“There were a few things that led me to choose UPS,” Lewis says. “I loved the high level of education and the opportunities I would have after attending the school. The next was the opportunities in football. I have a strong chance to compete for a starting position next year.”

Longtime friends, Lewis and Leonard will be roommates at UPS.

A versatile player in high school on both sides of the ball, UPS expects Lewis to compete for all five positions on the offensive .ine.

“I’m looking forward to competing,” he says. “I want to challenge myself and my teammates to get better. I want to help change the program’s direction.”

While at SQHS, Lewis drew acclaim and admiration from his teammates and coaches.

“Colby Lewis is one of my favorite players on and off the field,” says Coach Brian Young, Lewis’ former coach at Squalicum before he went on to coach at Sehome High School. “Tough-as-nails competitor on the field, great energy for life off the field. I believe a player either helps or hurts your program. Colby is definitely in the ‘helps your program’ category.”

Colby Lewis playing Squalicum High School last season. Photo courtesy Colby Lewis

 Additional College Prospects

Several prospects in Bellingham have yet to finalize their commitments. Sehome High Schools’ Andre Watson and Coleby Chambers are among those who are anticipated to play college ball, as well.

The Future of Football in Whatcom County

This latest group of graduates and student-athletes committed to playing at the collegiate level represents a new generation of Bellingham football players, continuing to represent the city in college athletics. Local high school football programs hope the dedication of the 2024 class inspires future generations to pursue their dreams of playing at higher levels.

First Fed Photo Contest Celebrates the PNW

Winning 2023 photo by Rick Ross

Submitted by First Fed

First Fed is hosting their annual Proudly PNW photo contest to celebrate the stunning beauty of the region. The contest is open to both amateur and professional photographers who can win $101 if their photo is one of 25 winners. In addition to the monetary prize, the winners will also be featured on the First Fed website, annual report, branch screens, and other marketing materials. This year’s contest is now open through August 18, 2024.

“The contest is designed to celebrate our love for life in the Pacific Northwest,” said Abby Sill, Senior Creative Manager for First Fed. “Beauty can be found everywhere: at a backyard picnic, from the back of a kayak, or backpacking up a trail. We encourage entrants to think creatively about all the life found all around us.”

Contest Categories

From the rugged coastline to the peaks of the majestic mountain ranges, the Pacific Northwest offers a diverse array of picturesque scenes that captivate the imagination. Participants are encouraged to submit their best shots that fit into this year’s contest categories:

  • PNW Landscapes: Oregon, Washington, Idaho, British Columbia, and Alaska. Show off your favorite spots in your hometown!
  • Local Landmarks: Send in your best shots of your favorite Pacific Northwest landmarks! Bridges, interesting statues or buildings, natural landmarks are all welcome.
  • People in Nature: Do you have photos from your last PNW adventure? Enter your most inspiring photos of people hiking, surfing, kayaking, and other Pacific Northwest activities.

In keeping with the theme of celebrating the natural beauty of the region, photos without strong filters or editing are preferred.

First Fed will choose 24 of the winners and an additional “fan favorite” will be chosen by votes from the community. People can vote for multiple favorites, but only one vote per photo.

“While voting on your favorites, it’s fun to see and appreciate both the splendor of our area and talent of our local community,” said Sill.

Winning 2023 photo by Annette Jones was featured on the cover of the FNWB 2024 Proxy Statement.

Community Spirit

First Fed continues to demonstrate community commitment, whether through volunteerism, sponsorships, or grants to local nonprofits through the First Fed Foundation. This year First Fed closed their branches for half a day so our team members could volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and other local nonprofits for their inaugural Community Spirit Day.

The annual photo contest is another way First Fed celebrates our communities, bringing people together through the shared appreciation for the talent, natural beauty, and diversity of our region.

Winning 2023 photo by Sharon Beth which is now featured on the Personal Banking brochure.

First Fed team is excited to see what stunning new images this year brings. The contest ends on August 18 so there is still plenty of time to capture striking moments on your summer adventures! View contest details, current entries, or submit your own photo at ourfirstfed.com/pnw-photo-contest.

First Fed is a member FDIC and equal housing lender.

‘The Respect We Forgot We Deserved’: A Local Health Care Worker is Recognized for Her Outstanding Support

Submitted by Unity Care NW

In May of last year, Unity Care NW staff jumped into action. The COVID-19 public health emergency came to an end, reviving annual enrollment requirements for Americans on Medicaid.  The community health center provides whole person care, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay, and this change in policy put tens of thousands of local residents at risk of losing their health care.

Unity Care NW’s Outreach & Enrollment team spent much of the next 12 months calling, texting, and meeting with as many local Medicaid enrollees as possible to help them keep or find new health insurance plans. Their Enrollment Specialists are certified in-person assistors to help patients navigate Washington State’s Health Benefit Exchange. They can help anyone apply for or renew their health insurance coverage for free.

In July, the following letter was sent [1] from the niece of a patient who received services from one of Unity Care NW’s Enrollment Specialists, Neyda Gonzalez, highlighting the compassion that these essential health care workers bring to each interaction.

“I recently had the pleasure of meeting Neyda Gonzalez at the Unity Care NW insurance enrollment office. 

Neyda provided outstanding support for my elderly disabled uncle. His situation is complicated to say the least, it has been difficult understanding the different layers of DSHS and impossible to get anywhere with the urgency of his needs. We felt fortunate to find that such a place as this enrollment office even existed.

For the past couple of months his care has been in my hands, every day is a doctor appointment, emergency room visit, or a phone call about medications, or tour of an assisted living facility. It’s hard to keep trying with a positive attitude.

Through our battle when we leave somewhere we went to for help, only more tasks are put on our plate. More running around. More confusion. More voicemails.  No answers. ‘Go there, call this number, here’s a pamphlet’ are often all that we leave with after hours waiting on hold or in lobbies…

Until we met Neyda.

Neyda lifted our spirits and patiently LISTENED to us without interrupting. She DID NOT cut us off because she assumed she knew what we needed…

If we didn’t provide bank statements, receipts, a signed letter on how his money was spent, a copy of the tax form he filled out, a copy of the check… all to be turned in with less than a week he could lose his medical coverage. 

Neyda went out of her way to explain some crucial information. Then, without even being asked, printed out copies for us to use towards resolving his circumstances before it was too late! Neyda whizzed through my uncle’s application with ease and provided us a phone number to call.

Neyda boosted our morale and treated us with the respect we forgot we deserved.

Thank you so much, Neyda. You’re literally the best at what you do.

Thank you for the hope and the help.”

Unity Care NW staff helped 1,165 patients keep their Medicaid coverage and 215 find health plans on the state exchange since Medicaid revived annual enrollment requirements in May of 2023.

For more insights into Unity Care NW’s work and impact, please refer to their recently released Annual Report.


[1] Some information has been removed to protect patient confidentiality.

Sylvia Briggs-Bauer Brings a Youthful Perspective to Environmental Activism

Sylvia Briggs-Bauer brings an obvious love of the natural world to her activism. Photo credit: Steven Arbuckle

Without any fuss or fanfare, 15-year-old Bellingham native Sylvia Briggs-Bauer describes herself as a youth activist with a passion for environmental action. Her interest started simply: with the hikes she goes on with her mother and watching the bird feeder in the back yard.

She also enjoys the documentaries of legendary British broadcaster and natural historian David Attenborough. His 2020 film A Life on Our Planet had a particular impact on her. Attenborough uses the film to share his personal concerns from studying, filming, and teaching about the natural world. It moved Briggs-Bauer to share her own thoughts and findings. Columbia Nature News — named after her own neighborhood — was initially produced and distributed as a way to share the story of Sylvia’s garden, which is comprised entirely of plants native to the local area.

Later she would focus on a single issue for each newsletter, explaining an environmental concern, how it affects us, and how we can affect it. She continued for a couple of years until life, school, and sports caused her to take a short hiatus. But new issues are already in the works, and this latest incarnation adds information about local environmental events and volunteer opportunities she’d like her neighbors to know about.

The name of Sylvia’s effort, “Project Sparrow Hawk,” has been burned into the bottom of the side panel. Photo credit: Steven Arbuckle

A Neighborly Influence

One of those neighbors happens to be Lisa Citron, the founder and director of From A Child’s Point Of View, a nonprofit that blends art, education, and advocacy for young ones.

“Lisa has been like my adoptive grandma for a long time,” Syvlia says. “We’ve had a family connection, [and] we trade cookies and other neighborly things.” When Sylvia was in 4th grade, Lisa taught drama in Sylvia’s class and did art installations with the elementary school students. “We make a little art, and then we go put it out in the world and tell people our ideas from the children’s point of view.”

She remembers going to Lisa’s house one day and having a conversation about water – how it’s part of so many things, how we depend on it so much – and they agreed they should use that idea to create a project. She invited her friend Lilly, who invited her friend Raya, and they all decided to paint a mural together. But COVID came along and brought the supply chain problems that made paint harder to come by.

Sylvia has been hands-on with all aspects of the project, including researching how to build a box that will attract kestrels. Photo credit: Steven Arbuckle

A Team of Activists

Scaling down a bit, the girls decided to make a series of signs, instead, that spelled out a message like the old Burma Shave roadside advertisements. They first appeared in yards along their street, calming the traffic as people slowed to read them, and have also been spotted at events at Wayside Park and along Cornwall Avenue.

As the world opened up and paint was again easily obtained, the three young ladies created their design, and painted it on a tablet so they could share and enlarge it. With the help of some mural artists, they laid out a grid at the intersection of Lynn and W. North Streets where they crafted their depiction of the world, its waters, and local aquatic wildlife. They explain the graphic with the legend, “What goes down storm drains flows to wildlife in Bellingham Bay.”

Sylvia and her mother cross the lawn of Bow Sanctuary, who have agreed to host the box and the wi-fi feed. Photo credit: Steven Arbuckle

A Mission of Her Own

All the while, Sylvia kept her eyes on the skies. Along with her mother — naturopath, midwife, and professor Kim Bauer — she took an online course with Sue Cotrell through Raptor Studies Northwest. Like many beginning birders, Sylvia quickly fell for the American kestrel. Also known as the sparrow hawk, it’s technically a falcon but also described as a “really cute, little fluffy tiny hawk.”

Then, as an eighth grader, Sylvia started an environmental club at her school. The teacher who served as a mentor for the club spoke to her about a grant program called GripTape. It allows 14- to 19-year-olds to apply for funds that allow them to study their interests and direct their own education.

Sylivia’s years of interest and study met with an instant of inspiration, and a plan was conceived. On a drive into the Skagit Valley, she and her mother emerged from the wooded twists and turns of Chuckanut Drive onto the wide open straightaway of Highway 11. There, perched on a wire across the road from Bow Sanctuary, was an American kestrel. This was the kestrel’s habitat, with the fields its natural hunting grounds, and Sylvia saw the chance to watch her favorite raptor up close.

Built to the specifications preferred by American kestrels, the nesting box’s antenna can be seen just behind the side window. Photo credit: Steven Arbuckle

She applied for the grant to buy a tiny, wi-fi enabled camera to mount inside a nesting box she would build with her father’s help. She could watch and learn as kestrels moved in, and made a home and family, and then share the experience via the internet. After some location scouting, the owners of the sanctuary agreed she could mount her nesting box on their grounds.

The box was built and installed at the sanctuary, with camera and power in place, and the first residents moved in. Unfortunately, those residents turned out to be starlings, an invasive species that were keeping the local kestrel from settling in. Sylvia has evicted them, and now must wait until the next nesting season to go live with her video feed.

She keeps an eye on the nesting box and promises to let us know as soon as kestrels move in — and how we can watch along with her.

Find Barbecue in Thurston County This Summer

The South Sound BBQ Festival takes place at Lacey's Huntamer Park on July 13. Two weeks later visit the Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally at Yelm Community Park on July 26. Photo courtesy South Sound BBQ Festival

Whether you daydream of being a pitmaster or are just a fan of brines, rubs, smoke rings and burnt ends, Thurston County has plenty of tasty options. From festivals to food trucks, there’s barbecue waiting just around the corner.

Barbecue is the sight, sound, and smell of summer. Thanks to community festivals, food trucks, restaurants and catering, you can enjoy this tasty treat anytime you want. Photo courtesy South Sound BBQ Festival

Free Family Fun at Two Thurston County Barbecue Festivals this July

Wallow in all things ‘cue at the South Sound BBQ Festival on July 13 or Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally on July 26. Both events are free, all ages, family-friendly fun and celebrate community, summer and the joys of gathering around a grill.

Sponsored by the Lacey South Sound Chamber, the South Sound BBQ Festival is held at Lacey’s Huntamer Park from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., with the beer garden open from noon until 8 p.m. There will be entertainment on stage, kids’ activities, a chicken wing eating contest, vendors and voting for your favorite grill-master. Follow the BBQ Festival on Facebook for the latest additions, updates and information about how to sign up as a participant.

Two weeks later, the Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally sets up at Yelm City Park. Courtesy of the Yelm Chamber of Commerce, organizers expect more than 10,000 attendees hungry for food and fun. The Rally runs from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. with the beer garden open from 5 to 9 p.m. Sign up to compete in the Amateur Andy or Youth Burger Challenge competitions or enroll your kiddos in the youth music talent show.

Email events@laceysschamber.com with questions about the South Sound BBQ Festival or info@bbqrally.com with questions about the Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally.

Can’t wait for the festivals? Support your local pitmaster at one of Thurston County’s many barbecue spots for dine-in, to-go, catering and delivery options. Photo courtesy Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally

Eat Globally, Dine Locally Thanks to Thurston County’s Dine In, Take-Out or Barbecue Delivery

Can’t wait for the festivals to kick off? No problem! Thurston County has some great takes on barbecue that can be enjoyed any time. This list is by no means comprehensive but here are a few fun spins on this timeless classic.

South Bay BBQ
619 Legion Way SE, Olympia

Family-owned in downtown Olympia, South Bay BBQ offers everything from Taco Tuesday to a Prime Rib dinner, all with their signature barbecue flair. They have outdoor seating, to-go options and are open Tuesday through Saturday.

Ranch House BBQ
10841 Kennedy Creek Road SW, Olympia

With nearly 45 years on the competition barbecue circuit under their belts, Ranch House BBQ Pitmaster Amy Anderson has taken home Grand Championship titles in Washington, California, Arizona and Nevada State BBQ Championships. She also earned a Grand Championship at the Canadian International and the world championship in Ireland in 2000. Dine in, take some home or have their team cater your next get-together.

OG’s Smokehouse BBQ
Mobile

OG’s Smokehouse BBQ sets up shop around Olympia so follow your nose (or find their schedule on Facebook) to some tasty grub. Fan favorites sell out quickly so show up early and hungry. Why cook in this heat? Let the OG take care of family dinner tonight.

Flaming Pig BBQ
111 Tumwater Boulevard SE, B-102, Tumwater

If reading all this makes you hungry, you’re in luck. Flaming Pig BBQ will let you order online and for pickup and delivery. Otherwise swing by for Happy Hour from 2 to 4 p.m., Taco Thursday or just a heaping portion of yummy food. You can even pick up sauces to enjoy at home later.

Hops on the Hill
1870 Barnes Boulevard SW, Tumwater

Few pairings are better than beer and barbecue. Open seven days a week, Hops on the Hill will cure your Texas style barbecue cravings from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. You can even add barbecued meat to other items because why not? Mac and cheese with brisket, BBQ sliders or a full pan of nachos topped with smoked turkey…yes, please.

Jerk Juicy BBQ & Catering
202 Yelm Avenue W, Yelm

Another Texas style barbecue stop, Jerk Juicy BBQ & Catering uses real wood-smoked meat to wow customers. They cater, sell by the pound, and offer dine-in and to go. You can also order online to skip the wait or sign up for their newsletter to follow upcoming appearances. Check out the deceptively named burrito which comes filled with the meat of your choice, mac and cheese and topped with house made Jerk Juicy Sauce.

Steele Barrel BBQ
1506 W Yelm Ave, Yelm

With a motto of “explore, devour, repeat,” Steele Barrel BBQ is Yelm’s flavor fiesta. Offering everything from a pulled pork breakfast burrito to Angus sirloin cheeseburgers, brisket fries to street corn salad, they fulfill their motto every day and have the five-star reviews to prove it.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
1350 Marvin Road NE, Ste. H, Lacey
5312 Littlerock Road SW, Ste. 101, Tumwater

We tend to associate barbecue with the South, Southwest and Texas but Hawaiian barbecue is not to be missed. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in Lacey and Tumwater brings the classic plate lunch to diners stateside. A plate lunch typically includes rice, macaroni salad, fish, chicken and a third deliciously prepared protein. Taste the aloha and broaden your barbecue horizons without leaving home.

There are even globally-influenced barbecue restaurants in Olympia, like Hawaiian plate lunch flavors or Korean barbecue with its international flair. Photo courtesy Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally

New Gangnam Korean BBQ
7131 Martin Way E, Olympia

Whether you choose the spicy pork or chicken BBQ box for lunch or one of their 14 different types of Korean BBQ, New Gangnam is a global spin on the genre with so many options that choosing just one is almost impossible.

Summertime’s open windows bring in the fresh scent of blooming flowers, newly mowed grass and your neighbor’s barbecue grill. There’s nothing better than the smell of meat, veggies and even fruit caramelized, charred, seared, sautéed or shish-ka-bobbed over an open flame…with plenty of s’mores for dessert. Head to one of these scrumptious events or restaurants in Thurston County for your fill of barbecue.

Looking for more? Check the Lacey South Sound Chamber website for more local summer happenings.

How Whatcom County Enjoyed Cherries in the Early Twentieth Century

Cherry pie, like this sour cherry example, remains an American favorite. Photo from Wikimedia Commons, Timothy Vollmer/Flickr

Cherries are one of America’s most popular fruits. During the early half of the twentieth century, they were also an important industry in Whatcom County and folks found many different ways to enjoy them.

Settlers in the region grew fruit trees as quickly as they could and cherry farming developed into one of the county’s largest fruit industries. Cherries, local boosters promised, would flourish in Whatcom County, even claiming that it was cheaper to grow cherries here than anywhere else in America. Chicken and cherries, farmer George H. Griffith, told the Bellingham Herald, were the best paying crops in the region. And this “poultry magnate of Wiser Lake” should know — he had a large orchard and 1,000 chickens in 1906.

C.E. Fitzgerald of Ferndale was a particularly prosperous cherry farmer. He won awards for his cherries at the 1905 Lewis and Clark Exposition in Portland and the 1909 Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition in Seattle. “Fitzgerald’s prize cherries of Ferndale,” the Bellingham Public Market declared in a 1917 ad, “are the best for eating or canning.” The market sold them for 90 cents per box. Fitzgerald also shipped cherries to British Columbia, the Midwest, and the East Coast.

Picking cherries was hard work. In 1925 Lettie Warner, age 67, was celebrated as top picker at Cherry Hill Fruit Farm in Everson. She picked 2.5 tons in three weeks, including 463 pounds in one day to celebrate the birth of her first great-grandchild.

By 1931, there were 33,985 cherry trees in Whatcom County.

Cherry Canning

Whatcom County canneries handled cherries from Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan and Island Counties. Some were even shipped from east of the Cascades for processing. Everson and Ferndale were centers of cherry farming, with their own canneries. Other growers brought their fruit by train or ship to Bellingham.

Many cannery workers were women and girls. The pay was low. In 1905, a number of women at the Nooksack Valley Canning Company at Sehome Creek in Bellingham went on strike when their pay went down from a dollar to four and half a cents per crate of stemmed and canned cherries. Because a worker could only produce about 15 crates a day, that plummeted their wages to roughly 63 cents. That same year the company shipped a third of its seasonal output — 547 cases — to San Francisco. Each case held 24 quarts of canned cherries.

C.E. Fitzgerald’s cherry farm near Ferndale, seen here in an image from the July 31, 1910 issue of the Bellingham Herald, was one of Whatcom County’s most prosperous. Photo: Washington State Library

Buying Cherries

Cherries were popular ingredients at Bellingham bakeries. Fisher’s Bakery and Coffee Shop, 110 East Magnolia, made a two-layer cherry filled Valentine’s Day cake in 1937 for 39 cents. In 1937, Mannings at 1327 Cornwall Avenue offered cherry pie with “fresh frozen pie cherries and a golden brown crust, flaky and tender” for President George Washington’s birthday. The pie cost 33 cents. Frozen fruit was an exciting new commodity at the time.

And of course, the classic sundae was not complete without a maraschino cherry on top. In 1932, the Smalley Drug Company at 1401 Commercial Street offered the “Powder Puff Sundae” for 15 cents, “a delicious sundae of peanut brittle ice cream with marshmallow covering, topped with whipped cream and red cherry.” It came with a free “genuine Gainsborough” makeup powder puff. Local dairy companies also sold cherry ice cream.

This pineapple icebox cake from the September 5, 1940 issue of the Bellingham Herald included ladyfingers, eggs, pineapple and gelatin. It was chilled in the refrigerator and topped with maraschino cherries. Photo: Washington State Library

Eating Cherries

Recipes for cherries were popular in the Bellingham Herald newspaper. Cherries could be added to baked puddings, brown betty, cake, cobbler, cookies, fritters, rolls, roly-polys, souffles, tortes, and of course pies and tarts. They were also used to top roasts, cakes, and custards or to stuff “surprise muffin.” Maraschino cherries and lime wedges garnished punch like in a 1939 recipe for “Frost Bite” punch with raspberry, lemon and orange juice, sugar, cinnamon and cloves.

Cherry pie was by far the favorite use of the fruit. “Cherry season is juicy pie time,” the Herald wrote in 1938. “When the men in the family rave about the matchless cherry pies of their boyhood, change those fond memories into compliments for yourself by making a cherry pie with this simple, tested recipe,” which included cherry juice along with the fruit. Other recipes called for cherry gelatin.  

Cherries could be preserved as jam, jelly, sauce, or pickled. Industrial canning helped make cherries an all-year rather than primarily seasonal food. And as “mechanical” refrigerators replaced iceboxes in the 1920s and 1930s, chilled salads and desserts with cherries became more popular. Cherries were combined with other fruits and vegetables, cottage cheese, mayo, or gelatin and chilled to make salads. Cherry whips, icebox cakes, and ice cream desserts also became favorites.

During this time, sample menus were frequently printed in the Bellingham Herald. These showed how cherries were enjoyed alongside the rest of the meal. For example, experts in 1941 recommended steamed cherry pudding to go with a dinner of oyster fritters. Cherry sherbet could top off a meal of creamed shrimps with peas in pastry shells in 1941. A dinner of ham and eggs with cherry pie was “fit for a king” in 1939. Cherry butter, according to a 1937 recipe, was made by boiling red cherries, lemon, orange juice, and sugar until thick, and was enjoyed with hot rolls, biscuits, and bread. Cherry conserve and jam could also work.

Legacy

Cherries continue to be more than just a good thing to grow and eat. They are a symbol of carefree days and warm weather. The people of the past would agree. As June Burn wrote in the Bellingham Herald’s “Puget Soundings” column on October 15, 1929, about Mountain View Road outside Ferndale: “Cherries and apple orchards — oh, to come by here when the trees bloom!”

E-Biking in Olympia? Check out Capitol State Forest North Slope’s Designated Bike Trails

The Capitol State Forest outside of Olympia offers e-bike trails on the North Slope. Check the trail map to learn more about traversing this spectacular area. Photo courtesy: Friends of Capitol Forest

The e-bike boom offers more than just the newest way to explore the outdoors. Electric-assisted bikes also let riders experience the Capitol State Forest North Slope’s designated e-bike trails while boosting fitness and discovering local hospitality.

“With e-biking you can get in a lot of riding, especially at this time of the year,” says Ryan McCord,  Friends of Capitol Forest president. Friends of Capitol Forest is a nonprofit that supports the forest.

Retiree Jay Barney of Tumwater says traditional bike riders should try an e-bike, especially if they want to stay healthy. And spouse Lori Barney, also retired, says e-bikes keep the “older generation” going when otherwise they may be considering giving up biking due to physical or stamina challenges. “We can do longer rides than on a regular bike,” she explains.

Trails like “Slick Jimmy” and “Livin’ the Dream” offer e-bike riders options to visit the Capitol State Forest on designated e-bike trails. Photo courtesy: Friends of Capitol Forest

Ride Capitol State Forest’s North Slope ‘Slick Jimmy’ and ‘Livin’ the Dream’ E-Bike Trails

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages the 110,000-acre forest located southwest of Olympia in the Black Hills. The Friends of Capitol Forest website explains that the North Slope’s directional mountain bike-only trails in the forest are one of the few DNR-managed non-motorized trail systems that allow e-bikes. E-bikes are also authorized on motorized (dirt bike and ATV) Capitol State Forest trails. However, Friends of Capitol Forest explains that, “Per DNR policy, e-bikes are not allowed on the non-motorized shared use trails, which includes all the trails in the Fall Creek area, unless you have a disabled placard in your vehicle.”

Ryan recommends using the Trailforks North Slope’s e-biking trails map. One newer trail is named “Slick Jimmy.” Ryan says this difficult trail with steep turns is designed for e-bike experts. The trail’s steeper upper half is followed by a clear-cut section and then a less steep and wider lower half. Cam Sloan is one of the volunteers who built that trail. Cam, who is opening Big Stump Bikes in West Olympia in July 2024, says Slick Jimmy descends 1,800 feet. “It was early in the pandemic when we got approval for DNR to install a double black level trail on the North Slope,” he says. “Having a place where you can go to ride e-bikes legally without consequences takes the stress out.”

Load your e-bikes onto your car and head out to e-bike trails like the Capitol State Forest North Slope’s authorized paths. Check the Trailforks map for details of the North Slope trails located not far from Olympia. Photo courtesy: Jay and Lori Barney

If you are not yet an e-bike expert, Ryan says embark on the “Livin’ the Dream” trail. It is a wider flow trail with berms that you can jump or just roll over. “ Livin’ the Dream is the most accessible trail,” says Ryan. “If you are a new rider, start on the Livin’ the Dream and see how that goes.”

Alan Paxton, Trek Bicycle Olympia West manager, says the North Slope is popular in Thurston County and the region. The North Slope is about half an hour from Olympia. Take I-5 to Highway 101, head west and exit at Highway 8. Continue for about 10 miles to the new parking lot at the A-Line/A-500 Road.

Riders Use E-Bikes’ ‘Energy Assist’ to Expand Outdoor Fitness Opportunities

E-biking lets you enjoy outdoor bicycling even if you need help with hills or long distances. E-bikes are classified into 1, 2 and 3 depending upon their motor assistance and speed levels. Older riders or those with physical challenges often find the e-bike battery’s energy assistance to supplement pedaling expands their fitness opportunities. Cam says e-bikes let people stay active. “It allows you to put in as much effort as you want, and augments your efforts,” he explains.

Tumwater retirees Jay and Lori Barney (pictured) encourage bicyclists who may have physical or stamina challenges to try e-bikes, which provide an energy assist option that give a boost to pedaling. Photo courtesy: Jay and Lori Barney

Jay and Lori began e-biking a couple of years ago while on vacation in France. They bought e-bikes when they returned. Regular bikes had become challenging given Lori’s back and Jay’s hip issues, but e-bikes let them comfortably continue riding. “We love our e-bikes,” says Lori. “Jay and I can do 30 miles, easy.”

“They are so nice,” adds Jay. “They are a really good workout. You can turn the dial to zero and not use the assist, but it’s a comfort knowing it’s there.”

West Olympia Hospitality Serves North Slope and Olympia Area E-Bikers

Food and lodging choices abound if you want to explore the Olympia area during your North Slope and local e-bike treks. The Highway 101 exits to West Olympia lead e-bikers to convenient spots to eat, drink and relax. Cam says West Olympia locations are particularly popular with bicyclists, who are frequent patrons of Vic’s Pizzeria and the Headless Mumby Brewing Company. Ryan says the Skep and Skein Tavern is another westside location well-liked by bicyclists. The tavern offers meads, ales and microbrews, and you can bring your own food. Visit this Experience Olympia webpage for more area restaurant and pub choices.

If you are staying overnight during your North Slope e-biking trip, consider the forest’s Fall Creek Campground and Trailhead or Margaret McKenny Campground and Trailhead. If you prefer sleeping on a bed, The Marie Bed & Breakfast on Olympia’s westside, the Swantown Inn (bonus: it rents e-bikes), and other area hotels offer accommodations.

E-bikes like this one pictured here have a battery to give riders an energy assist when needed, such as when they are climbing hills or going longer distances. Photo credit: Nancy Krier

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