A canopy of Evergreens, a babbling brook, an orange and purple sunset – these are just a few of the photographic images greeting Bellingham travelers at the TSA-lineup area in Bellingham International Airport starting May 16, the International Day of Light (IDL). The collection is sponsored by local nonprofit SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics, which has called Bellingham home since 1977.
The images are the work of SPIE staff members as well as Ian Bell’s 2015 winning photo from SPIE’s annual IDL photo competition. Each image captures different aspects of the beauty of the Pacific Northwest region, and is accompanied by captions describing its representation of the science of light.
The display also honors and marks the retirement of SPIE CEO Eugene Arthurs, who has held that position since 1999. Earlier this month, the incoming CEO, Kent Rochford stepped into this position.
“We would like to thank SPIE for this generous art donation,” said Port Commission President Ken Bell. “The display will improve the aesthetics of our airport’s security checkpoint. It will showcase the natural beauty of Whatcom County while educating travelers on how light interplays with the natural environment.”
As part of its efforts to raise awareness around the International Day of Light locally as well as globally, SPIE has produced free digital resources for those wishing to participate during this UNESCO-established effort. In the lead-up to this year’s IDL, SPIE recently sponsored educational Prismatic Magic laser shows at four regional schools. On May 16, SPIE will also launch its 2018 International Day of Light photo competition which is open to people of all ages, both amateur and professional. Discover ten ways to celebrate the IDL, and learn more about photonics at the SPIE blog.
“As early supporters of both the International Year of Light in 2015 and the now-annual International Day of Light on May 16, SPIE is proud to continue its support during this year’s event,” said new SPIE CEO Kent Rochford. “A critical part of the SPIE mission is to advance the science of light and light-based technologies, and the International Day of Light is an engaging and inclusive way of doing so with many different audiences. It is also appropriate that on May 16, we honor outgoing SPIE CEO Eugene Arthurs in his and SPIE’s hometown of Bellingham with this display featuring light-focused, Pacific Northwest images. During his 18 years leading SPIE, Eugene has been a strong proponent for the betterment of life through optics and photonics, always reminding us of the many ways in which light improves and enhances our lives on a daily basis.”
The International Day of Light is a global initiative that provides an annual focal point for the continued appreciation of light and the role it plays in science, culture and art, education, and sustainable development, and in fields as diverse as medicine, communications, and energy. The broad theme of light will allow many sectors of society worldwide to participate in activities that demonstrates how science, technology, art and culture can help achieve the goals of UNESCO – education, equality and peace.
About the Port of Bellingham
The Port of Bellingham is a Washington State special purpose municipal corporation serving all of Whatcom County. The Port of Bellingham’s mission is to fulfill the essential transportation and economic development needs of the region while providing leadership in maintaining greater Whatcom County’s overall economic vitality through the development of comprehensive facilities, programs and services. Throughout Whatcom County, the Port owns, operates and maintains approximately 1600 acres of property including a shipping terminal, a cruise terminal, two marinas, industrial development areas, commercial uplands, parklands, shoreline public access areas and an international airport.
About SPIE
SPIE is the international society for optics and photonics, an educational not-for-profit organization founded in 1955 to advance light-based science, engineering and technology. The Society serves nearly 264,000 constituents from approximately 166 countries, offering conferences and their published proceedings, continuing education, books, journals and the SPIE Digital Library. In 2017, SPIE provided more than $4 million in support of education and outreach programs. For more information visit www.spie.org.
To highlight the grand opening of the Fairhaven Farmers Market and the new market hours (Wednesdays, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.), Bellingham Farmers Market is collaborating with two iconic community partners to bring multiple activities to engage customers.
As part of Village Books’ VB Reads … book group series, Bellingham Farmers Market is co-hosting a new Regional Cookbook and Cooking Lit group! And the launch happens to take place at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 6, opening day of the Fairhaven Farmers Market. The first cookbook featured is By the Shore: Explore the Pacific Northwest Coast Like a Local written by Bainbridge Island author Nancy Blakey. As a bonus, Nancy will be participating in our inaugural cookbook club meeting. She will also kick things off with a cooking demonstration in the market from 3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. The Regional Cookbook and Cooking Lit group will meet the first Wednesday of each month from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (July 4 moved to July 11 to accommodate the holiday) with the goal of providing inspiration for customers looking to expand their cooking repertoire and use the best in local, seasonal produce.
Learn from Chef Matail Gillis at the Fairhaven Farmers Market. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Farmers Market.
Ciao Thyme is also helping us celebrate the Fairhaven Market opening in style with a first-ever “Market Mocktail Reception” from 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Chef Mataio Gillis, and his talented crew, will demonstrate and prepare appetizers and mocktails, using ingredients from our market vendors. After the demonstration, our volunteer “wait staff” will pass these drinks and nibbles for customers to enjoy while shopping the market.
Throughout the afternoon, folk trio The Moving Hats will be performing live music as part of our Fresh Local Music series.
“While we consistently shop both the Downtown and the Fairhaven farmers markets, the Wednesday market has always held a special place in our hearts,” shares Ciao Thyme owner-Matiao Gillis. “It provides a more intimate setting for us to really slow down and visit with our favorite farmers and producers. We wanted to help Bellingham Farmers Market kick off their new hours in style and to celebrate with the community that has supported this market for over 20 years.”
Wednesday, June 6, Grand Opening Schedule
(All Events on the Village Green unless otherwise noted)
3:00 p.m.—Market Opens
3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.—Food Demonstration with Cookbook Author-Nancy Blakey
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.—Regional Cookbook & Cookbook Lit Group (Mezzanine Level of Village Books)
4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.—Fresh Local Music with The Moving Hats
5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.—Food Demonstration with Ciao Thyme
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.—Market Mocktail Reception
7:00 p.m.—Market Closes
Wednesday Fairhaven Farmers Market
Fairhaven Village Green – 1017 Harris Avenue, Bellingham
Wednesdays, June 6 – August 29, 2018
3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (Market Closed July 4)
Drywall and framing company GK Knutson, in celebration of its 20 years in business in Bellingham, recently donated $20,000 to local nonprofit organizations that work hard to support families in Whatcom County.
GK Knutson pledged $15,000 to Habitat for Humanity in donations of drywall services and material to help families in need afford to build and own their own homes. Habitat works by helping families build houses and shepherding them on the path toward home ownership and financial independence.
Also as part of its anniversary giving, GK Knutson donated $5,000 to help sponsor the Agape Home for Women and Children’s upcoming Light in the Night Gala & Auction.
“Agape is a ministry that I personally feel connected to,” says GK Knutson vice president Kristi Knutson. “I’ve been volunteering at Agape and have been enjoying creating relationships with the women who are transitioning from being without a home to finding meaningful employment and a residence of their own.”
Agape Home is a program of the Lighthouse Mission, which works to end the cycle of homelessness for men, women and children in Bellingham.
GK Knutson, founded and owned by Greg and Kristi Knutson in 1997, is a Puget Sound-based metal framing and drywall company. They operate as a subcontractor on large commercial and government construction projects up and down the I-5 corridor, from Tacoma to Blaine.
The company has had a major impact on the Bellingham community, highlighted by their recent support of the remodel of the Carver facility at Western Washington University. This $4 million contract employed more than 45 workers for GK Knutson and generated an estimated $7.88 million in economic benefits to Bellingham and the surrounding communities.
GK Knutson is a business founded on and sustained by relationships, Kristi Knutson says. Great relationships with customers and vendors helped the company weather the economic downturn, and positive relationships with its 100-or-so employees continue to drive the company forward.
“We see this business as mainly about people,” Knutson says. “Strong relationships are one of our core values. Not only do we have great relationships with the general contractors, their project managers and employees, but also with all of our vendors and other tradesmen with whom we interact on a daily basis.”
Those relationships have enabled the company to thrive in the Puget Sound area for two decades, and that’s one reason the company has been so eager to give back by investing in the people of the community, Knutson says.
“It is our joy to be able to give back,” she says. “We have benefited from being part of the construction community these past 20 years, and this is one way we can offer our thanks and appreciation.”
About GK Knutson: GK Knutson is a family-run construction company founded in 1997 by Greg and Kristi Knutson. The company works primarily in metal stud framing, drywall, insulation and acoustical ceilings on commercial and government projects. GK Knutson’s family culture strives to promote from within and to invest in the growth of employees through leadership and technical training. It also is committed to family-wage compensation for its employees, who are members of Local Union 41 and participate in workplace safety and drug-testing programs. Business affiliations include the Association of General Contractors and the Northwest Wall & Ceiling Bureau.
From the summit of Rock Candy, take in views all around the South Puget Sound. Photo courtesy: The Outdoor Society.
At the base of the Puget Sound, where roads connect you to Portland, the Washington Coast, Olympic National Park and Highway 101, there is an overlooked and incredible forest waiting for you to explore. Known as Rock Candy Mountain, this destination offers a unique trail system that is a great spot for outdoor recreation enthusiasts who are looking for fantastic trails, stellar views and a dose of nature. Found just 15-minutes west of Olympia, Rock Candy – the 2,355-foot peak in Capitol State Forest – is quietly becoming a local favorite for all styles of outdoor recreation.
The trails at Rock Candy are multiuse, well maintained and fun for all. Photo courtesy: The Outdoor Society.
Rock Candy Mountain, which is the third tallest peak in the Capitol State Forest and the fifth highest named peak in Thurston County, has more than just a great view. On your way up and down, you’ll weave through stunning stands of trees, tall ferns and countless streams – the perfect combination of nature in the PNW. At the top of Rock Candy, you can see the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, making this a scenic spot to enjoy before retreating back down to the parking area. In the winter, visitors will find some snow, while the summer and fall months are warm and mostly dry. Like most trails in the region, the ground will be muddy and slick during the rainy months, but the mud and puddles are also part of the fun. While the remnants of logging can still be seen, the region is growing quickly, becoming wilder with every season.
Sections of the trails and roads weaving around the mountain are beautiful, standing as a testament to the wilds of the Pacific Northwest. If you haven’t hiked, run or biked the area, check it out. Locals love the region for multi-use recreation as it welcomes bike, foot and ATV users. No matter how you explore the area, you too will be saying how much Rock Candy rocks.
All the best adventures at Rock Candy start at this Yellow Gate. Photo courtesy: The Outdoor Society.
Capitol State Forest is a gem of public lands and while you more than likely haven’t explored it, it should be celebrated around the state, as it provides multi-use activities for hikers, mountain bikers and those who ride motorized vehicles. The state forest has nearly 100 miles of trails that are open to motorized use, including the Rock Candy region. Open from May 1 to November 30 for motorized vehicles, the roads and routes around Rock Candy are a blast and need to be ridden. Full of dirt trails, thick forests and logged-out regions, these hills easily offer a full day of fun for all ages. On a motorized vehicle, the entire forest is accessible from Rock Candy, making this the closest and best option for starting a day long ride. We highly recommend the Rock Candy-Waddel Basin West-Twin Peaks-Larch Mountain-North Rim Loop, as it takes you to some of the highest elevation, puts in serious miles and lets you explore some ridiculously rad roads.
Hikers have been coming to Rock Candy in recent years, helping fuel the transition to recreation and fixing the reputation of Capitol State Forest. The seemingly endless acres of forest land have now become a nature destination close to the growing regions of the South Puget Sound. As the area continues to grow, both in population and in age of forest, Rock Candy and Capitol State Forest will become even more beautiful, popular and fun for outdoor recreation for the entire family.
Year round, Thurston County’s Rock Candy trail system is great for outdoor enthusiasts. Photo courtesy: The Outdoor Society.
Mountain bikers love riding at Rock Candy, accessing it from the more bike-friendly routes that start at the Porter Creek entrance, located along Highway 12 and the Chehalis River in Grays Harbor. Thanks to its proximity to Olympia, Rock Candy is seeing an influx in bike riders and the reports coming out of the trails are stellar, full of great riding and fun days. Keep in mind that if you want to mountain bike Rock Candy, do so from the western side of Capitol Forest, starting from the previously mentioned areas, otherwise you will have to maneuver around motorbike traffic.
While exploring Rock Candy is fun on wheels, trail runners around the state are flocking to the area, running the great trails and getting some serious elevation on their legs. The area is quite popular with the local Strava running group with The Outdoor Society. Many members create routes and post pictures from their adventures on the group’s Strava App page. For some, the route was a training ground for running Rim to Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon. For others, it is a fun challenge and a place to enjoy time in nature.
From the summit of Rock Candy, take in views all around the South Puget Sound. Photo courtesy: The Outdoor Society.
For Brandon Barnes, a runner from West Olympia, Rock Candy is his go-to run because the climbing starts right out of the gate and doesn’t let up until you’re on the way back to the car. There is no warm up, just all work to the top of the mountain.
Barnes compares the run to a mullet hairstyle: “Rock Candy is business in the front and party in the rear, because you get right down to business as soon as you start,” Brandon laughs. “But, man, you can really cruise and have some fun on the way back down.”
To plan your trip and find inspiration on area restaurants and lodging, visit ExperienceOlympia.com.
When engaging in outdoor recreation, participants should take care to respect Whatcom wildlife. Photo credit: Justin Pedigo | FC Photography.
It’s going to be a wonderful weekend in Whatcom County! Don’t miss this opportunity to get out, explore and have fun. Maybe you’ll even make a new friend. Here are a few ideas of what to do in and around Bellingham May 18—20. And don’t forget to check out our full events calendar for all the fun happenings in Whatcom County.
WhatcomTalk aims to be your source for positive information and events happening in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden and throughout Whatcom County. If you have a suggestion for a post, send us a note at submit@whatcomtalk.com. For more events and to learn what’s happening in Bellingham and the surrounding area, visit our events calendar. To submit an event of your own, visit our events calendar and click on the green “Post Your Event” button.
Did you know that every year in Whatcom County, 50,000 lbs of litter gets picked up from our sidewalks and roads? That’s a whole lot of trash! Even in a place famous for its tree-huggery, we’re still responsible for a good chunk of the 1.4 billion pounds of litter that ends up in the ocean every year. Just think of all the art you could make with that much garbage!
In an effort to combat this wasteful problem, Make.Shift wants you to bring your trash to the Commercial Street Night Market in Downtown Bellingham. Or better yet, help clean up on your way to the festivities by collecting litter on the streets. Throughout the summer, we’ll be setting up shop in the Night Market’s Interactive Land with a big ol’ color wheel that you can bring to life by gluing your trash to it. No artistic talent needed to participate! And we’ll provide the glue, too!
What’s a color wheel, you ask? It’s a helpful tool many artists use to understand the relationship between different colors. In order to encourage our community to learn more about making art and being creative, Make.Shift will have information about color wheels and color theory available for anyone who participates in the project.
Guess what? Best of all, you could own the finished product for only a dollar! Throughout the summer, we will be selling raffle tickets for some lucky patron of arts to take this beauty home after we display it in the gallery for the month of October.
And if that wasn’t enough, come visit us in August when Make.Shift Gallery will be hosting the Commercial Street Night Market Photo Booth. To keep this garbage festival going, our photo booth theme will be “Trash Panda Party.” That’s right, we’ll have costumes and trash for you to rummage through and do your best raccoon impression for a killer summer selfie!
The first Commercial Street Night Market will take place on Friday May 18 from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. We hope that you’ll help clean up the streets and create something beautiful by taking part in That’s SO Trashy! Let’s change the world together.
For more information about Make.Shift Gallery visit makeshiftproject.com or email the Gallery Director, Jessyca Murphy, at gallery@makeshiftproject.com. To learn more about the Commercial Street Night Market, check out downtwownbellingham.com. Or “like” it on Facebook at facebook.com/commercialstreetnightmarket.
MNW coaches practice their skills at the Civic Field dirt jump track in Bellingham. Photo courtesy: March Northwest.
Whatcom County is celebrated for our outdoor recreational opportunities. The trail systems lacing over Galbraith Mountain and the Chuckanut range are regional attractions, and their presence fosters a strong, local mountain bike culture. For those looking to take their riding to the next level, or simply introduce their children to the joys of trail riding, March Northwest offers mountain bike clinics for all ages and abilities.
Established in 2013 by professional athlete and pioneering mountain bike coach, Shaums March, MNW programs take riders around the county on trails to hone their skills or learn the basics.
The Rank Advancement trailhead on Galbraith Mountain, hosted by MNW, is a popular choice for trail riding practice. Photo courtesy: March Northwest.
“We want to make sure that everyone has an experience where they end on a high note,” says MNW coach and Director of Administration, Nicole Gerow. “We will often end a day with a few laps on Rank Advancement so our riders can test themselves and see how they’ve improved.”
Rank Advancement, a trail loop on Galbaraith Mountain, is sponsored by MNW and hosts a variety of features suitable for a spectrum of riding abilities. The trail is also used during MNW’s summer break camp to teach youth the fundamentals of trail building and maintenance. “It’s not all about the ride,” reminds Gerow. “We’ll take them for walks along the trails and check for debris. If the trails aren’t safe to ride, then there’s no point in going out on them.”
Many of MNW’s programs are built around the school year, allowing for children to become engaged with the sport, and the character building that comes with it. “Mountain biking necessarily builds confidence; it comes from this place of resilience in the face of risk, where you don’t quit because of inclement weather, and don’t give up if you’re stuck,” says Gerow. “It teaches kids to fall and get back up again.”
MNW clinics held at Trampoline Zone give riders an edge in learning aerial maneuvers and prepares them for learning to fall in control. Photo courtesy: March Northwest.
Falls on a mountain bike are often times unavoidable and can be dangerous. “We really stress to our team to respect the importance of an injury, that it could be them and it could be serious,” explains Gerow. “If someone gets hurt, the whole group walks to the bottom of the trail with them.” To help mitigate some of the risk, MNW hosts clinics at Trampoline Zone, where they use the foam pits and mats to teach riders how to fall. Using a hoop to jump though allows participants to practice the aerial movements needed to roll out of a fall in a more controlled and ultimately safer way.
Recreational riders aren’t the only ones who need coaching in mountain bike safety skills. MNW partners with the International Police Mountain Bike Association, consulting with precincts nationwide and teaching their officers how to ride mountain bikes. In contrast to the amount of training police receive for most of their tools and tactics, bike skills often fall by the wayside. Cities have unique obstacles compared to rural trails and an officer needs to be prepared to maneuver through pedestrians and cars, or roll down stairs. “They know how to be a police officer, but they don’t know how to be a police officer on a bike,” says Gerow. “Our job is to teach them the safest maneuvers for their situation.”
MNW coaches practice their skills at the Civic Field dirt jump track in Bellingham. Photo courtesy: March Northwest.
MNW also supports their younger riders with opportunities to help foster responsibility and leadership skills. Youth who have perennially enrolled in clinics now have the chance for their first jobs to be with the MNW program. “I am especially excited for these kids, watching them mature and grow with us,” says Gerow proudly. “They’re no longer just taking our program, they are involved in our program by becoming ride leaders.”
As a junior ride leader, youth are expected to have completed 40 hours of volunteer service at an organization of their choice and have taken a series of courses through MNW for certification. “Requiring them to volunteer is important to us,” she says. “We want them to understand the value of their time and for them to demonstrate commitment and self-discipline.”
The Bellingham School District recently procured a handful of mountain bikes for some of their middle and high school P.E. curriculums. MNW has stepped in to consult with physical education teachers during this season’s teacher development days. “We teach teachers how to be ride leaders,” explains Gerow. “We don’t expect them to teach the students bike skills, but it’s important that they know how to make emergency action plans and lead rides. It’s about how to get kids out on a trail, have fun and be safe.”
The Hands on Children's Museum encourages learning for children of every age and aptitude. Each experience is family oriented, encouraging participation by adults and kids alike making it a local family favorite. Photo credit: Jessie Dunnam.
Olympia is a fun and fascinating destination located just a few hours to the south of Bellingham. There is so much to do, determining an itinerary can be a daunting and time-consuming task. Luckily, the team at Experience Olympia and Beyond has done much of the work for us. A quick visit to their website will take you to an extensive library of events, attractions, places to stay and amazing eats. With so many great choices you may still find yourself struggling to plan the day. Not to worry. The local community voted and compiled a list of the top 12, can’t-miss Thurston County Attractions. This is the perfect area guide for visitors and long-time residents alike.
The State Capitol is a top destination for visitors and locals alike. Photo credit: Jessie Dunnam.
The first place many people think of when planning a trip to Olympia is the State Capitol. The campus is open year-round and features numerous outdoor attractions, meaning you can plan your trip any day of the week. If you are looking for a more in-depth look at the campus and its buildings you can stop by the Visitor Center to inquire about self-guided tours or group tours through locals such as the Governor’s Mansion, the Legislative Building and the Temple of Justice, which houses the Washington State Supreme Court and the State Law Library. The Capitol Campus is also home to monuments and artwork and a jaunt down the hillside switchbacks will reward you with wonderful views and a close-up of Capitol Lake.
The Deschutes River begins in the Cascade Mountains, ending its run in Tumwater with an 82-foot fall into Capitol Lake. Visitors can enjoy this extraordinary site year-round at Tumwater Falls Park which offers 15 acres of public land around the falls. On your walk through the trails, you’ll see massive rocks, foot bridges, reflective pools and iconic Northwest foliage. Free guided tours are available for people interested in learning about topics such as Tumwater’s pioneer past, the history of the Olympia Brewing Company and the annual salmon migration. Tours usually run from July to mid-September. If you are lucky, and plan your tour near the end of August, you may even catch the salmon return.
The Olympia Farmers Market has been part of the Olympia community for over 41 years. They host over 400,000 visitors during the market season who come for their local organic produce, fresh cut flowers, breads, meats, cheeses, desserts and live entertainment. They strive to be the direct connection for consumers and producers and work tirelessly to promote small business and small-scale agriculture. The market is open for business year-round:
Every Mother’s Day weekend, the Wooden Boat Festival comes to town. While you will of course be able to explore and view wooden boats of every shape and size, from sailboats to dinghies to canoes, you will also find an array of activities and attractions. Percival Landing transforms into its own mini-city, complete with local artisan shops, an international food alley and live music performed by local musicians. The best part? Admission is free!
July brings in one of the most anticipated festivals of the year: Lakefair. Whether you are into delicious food, fireworks, fun runs, parades, exploring the seemingly endless alleyways of artisans and local craftsman, or getting your thrill on with heart-stopping rides there is something for every age and interest. It built for the community and organized by the community drawing in over 250,000 people each year.
Tumwater has a history rich in brewing traditions, so it is only appropriate for them to take some time each summer to celebrate. Tumwater’s Artesian Brewfest features over 50 Northwest craft breweries, in addition to wine, cider and spirits. With live music and larger than life games, such as human foosball, the Brewfest is the perfect day for grown-up kids to play.
Perhaps best known for being the home of Tugboat Annie’s Restaurant and Bar, West Bay Marina has been dubbed the friendliest marina in Olympia. From the panoramic windows in Annie’s, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable meal with views of sailboats and wildlife. And for those days when you are tired of watching and itching to explore, they also offer convenient kayak and paddleboard rentals.
Fiddlehead Marina is located downtown, just steps from Bud Bay Café, the viewing tower (seen in the distance) and the Olympia Farmers Market. Photo credit: Jessie Dunnam.
Fiddlehead Marina is centrally located on Olympia’s boardwalk and is proud to boast being the first established downtown marina. This family owned, and operated marina offers some of the best mooring in town due to its prime location, close to delicious restaurants like Anthony’s and the Budd Bay Café, and just a short walk to the observation tower and Farmers Market.
Boston Harbor is one of area’s only public-access marinas. While they are open year-round, you may want to check out their calendar of events to make the most out of your visit. For example, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Boston Harbor Marina hosts Friday Night at the Harbor where they bring you local breweries, delicious food and live music. Boston Harbor is a favorite because it has so many things to offer: a shop, kayak rentals, a public beach and fresh, seasonal seafood – and that’s just the beginning.
Nisqually Wildlife Refuge is a protected estuary habitat for migratory birds established in 1974 at the intersection of the Nisqually River and Puget Sound. During the year, over 200 species of birds visit the refuge, though other wildlife is prevalent as well, such as mammals, fish and amphibians, just to name a few. No matter the season, there is activity in the refuge making it a great location to visit year-round.
Due to its 1,100 feet of easy to access saltwater beach, system of nature trails, picnic day shelters and 50 acres of parkland and playground for the kids, Burfoot is a must stop for romantics, nature lovers and families alike. You will find lush greenery all year, blooming rhododendrons in the spring and unforgettable views of the State Capitol and Olympic Mountains.
Watershed Park was once home to a system of wells that supplied the city’s water up to the 1950s. During that time, the city considered logging and selling the land, but the community fought back to preserve it. Today you can walk the trails, sometimes steep and stepped, that meander underneath Watershed’s towering rainforest canopy while enjoying the gurgles of the creek and native fauna.
Located on Nisqually Beach, Tolmie State Park offers some of the best wildlife viewing around. There are owls and osprey, clams and crabs, seals and shellfish. The park spans nearly 105 acres and offers walking trails, a saltwater marsh and easy beach access. You can come at high tide and put in your kayak or come at low tide and explore the water’s bottom.
Thurston County’s paved bike paths are great for walking, riding or running any time of year. Since the three major trails, (Chehalis Western, Yelm-Tenino and Woodland) are all connected, traveling between your destinations is both easy and safe. Photo credit: Jessie Dunnam.
The Thurston County Trail System offers smooth, paved, off-road paths for walking, biking, running and more. With nearly 45 miles running from Olympia to Lacey to Tumwater, Tenino and Yelm, you will be sure to enjoy the scenery as you pass by wetlands, rivers, farmland and small towns and neighborhoods.
Even if you have walked it a hundred times, the natural northwest beauty of Priest Point Park is still to be enjoyed. In addition to miles of hiking trails, you will be captivated by steep ravines, cliffs and streams which all lead you to the nearly two miles of shoreline. The famous Elis Cove trail offers even deeper exploring of the 314-acre park with views of Downtown Olympia.
The Hands on Children’s Museum encourages learning for children of every age and aptitude. Each experience is family oriented, encouraging participation by adults and kids alike making it a local family favorite. Photo credit: Jessie Dunnam.
The Hands on Children’s Museum is learning at its best. Adults and kids interact together, engaging their curiosity and creativity through inquiry and exploration. The museum is geared toward young learners and their families, birth to 10 years old. They offer exhibits ranging from the environment and art to construction and design. While there is never a bad time to visit the museum, remember weekdays in spring can be particulary busy with school field trips, so you may want to consider weekends or other days throughout the year depending on your family’s tolerance for large volumes of laughter and happy chatter.
The Olympia Little Theater has been in the community since 1939 and is one of the oldest live theaters in the state. Their mission is to provide quality shows at prices we all can afford. While each season does vary, you can usually expect around eight shows throughout the year. Ticket information and showtimes can be found on their website.
The Washington Center offers the greatest variety of entertainment and cultural activities in the area. In addition to seasonal, touring artists, they also are the home stage to over 20 local performance groups. What sets them apart is their ability to interest an extensive range of people by offering performances that span genres and styles.
Harlequin Productions offers live theater that will open your mind and tantalize your senses, giving you a taste of the charmingly eccentric. Photo credit: Jessie Dunnam.
Harlequin Productions aims to explore the human adventure in their work. They strive, with every show, to expand our perspectives and help us discover the magic behind the music and the stories. They offer seven shows a year, including eclectic new works, summer musicals, the classics with unconventional twists and their famous Holiday Show.
Wolf Haven International is unique because it is a hands-off facility. That means there is no socialization between humans and the wolves. They are founded on the idea that animals, like humans, deserve to be appreciated for who and what they are. The sanctuary assures they will be treated with dignity and compassion from the moment they arrive to the end of their days, no matter how their lives began. The public can take tours of the facility, learn more about wolves and meet some of the residents, but Wolf Haven requires you schedule in advance. Tours run for about 50 minutes and are recommend for ages six and older.
Visit Thurston County and make happy memories that will last a lifetime.
Four out of the five Shimmertraps members share a house in Bellingham. Photo courtesy: Shimmertraps.
Our brains’ susceptibility to sensory overload creates experiences both wonderful and destructive. Every day our noses are bombarded by bakeries and perfumes, eyes are burnt by neon lights and thirty second ads, and taste buds are flooded by the sweet and fatty foods our bodies crave. Each of these experiences creates a spark of pleasure within us that builds until joy or need takes hold entirely.
Our ancestry that left us with single-column spinal support and vestigial organs also imparted a satisfaction-seeking brain. Within our evolved society, every sense has its own dedicated champion of satisfaction. Sight has physical beauty, taste has intricately prepared food, touch has physical companionship, smell has perfume and hearing has music.
Shimmertraps has found a home in the Bellingham house-show scene. Photo courtesy: Shimmertraps.
The slow evolution of music through history has brought us hundreds of thousands of musical acts and a twisting mass of genres and subgenres. Despite endless attempts to categorize every new wave of music, there are still genre-bending acts like Shimmertraps that deliver hard-hitting melodies packaged with dream-state synths and soothing bass.
The first time I saw Shimmertraps perform live, I sat on the wooden floor of the Alternative Library as they assembled their miniature mass of synths and effect pedals. I spotted an OP-1, one of the synths of my dreams, and quickly grew excited for what lay in store. The final touch was the addition of a few colorful mood lights. Suddenly I was sure that Shimmertraps were going to be unlike any local band I had seen.
Musical performances enliven all senses. You feel the bass, you smell the sweat, you watch the band and you hear the music. Every performer, once comfortable with their piece, expands their focus beyond musical expertise and attempts to overload every sense. As an artist, performance is usually, hopefully, fueled by an internal passion driven by a love for the art and music; something clearly present in Shimmertraps’ performances. The goal of mastering the art of performance is to transfer this passion and energy to the audience – so when they leave the show, they leave with what they can only describe as a “feeling,” an intense emotional response to the stimulation their mind and body just received.
Their music can be found for streaming or purchase on Bandcamp, Spotify and iTunes. Photo courtesy: Shimmertraps.
Every band aims for this, but it’s a lofty goal and often folly to try to master. With Shimmertraps, smells bleed through into taste, touch bleeds into auditory sensations, all the senses combine and a sonic soundscape is created where each aspect of human feeling can be absorbed by turning the entire act of performing their music into one large art piece.
Shimmertraps’ humble origins as a two piece with Zack on drums and Kyle Menne on bass, required them to record their songs as they wrote them. Since their complex synth/orchestral dreams weren’t achievable by just two, the majority of the pieces written by Zack and Kyle were written with the hope that in the future they would figure out how to perform them live. This helped them craft the music they wanted from day one.
Four out of the five Shimmertraps members share a house in Bellingham. Photo courtesy: Shimmertraps.
After a lengthy process of testing out new band members, Zack and Kyle were joined by Ian MacPhee, Brodie Cole and Justin Klipping. Together the five band members have perfected and elaborated on the groups’ original sound and bring that sound to the stage.
Very few bands can combine five independent artistic talents cohesively, but Shimmertraps have been able to take a collection of skills and assemble them into audio-visual masterpieces that grab listeners slowly and persuasively. Each inter-song transition at the Alternative Library show felt smooth and gentle because they had created a performance that transcended each individual song and left the air humming with residual good vibes. They approach music holistically and after watching them you will see all of the Bellingham music scene in a different light.
The band’s artistic ability transcends their music. Photo courtesy: Shimmertraps.
Shimmertraps’ excellence is thanks to individual dedication. Each member brings a unique skillset to the table. Playing off this allows them to evolve each new song into something great. Four of the five members all live under one roof where they are allowed a permanent music set up, allowing them to make waves while being one of the newer bands on the scene.
Their Facebook page and album covers are adorned by art the band created themselves. This extension of their artistic ability is a perfect example of their versatility as artists. It adds to their aura of talent and refined professionalism. Check their Facebook for upcoming shows and their Bandcamp for the awesome music they’ve put out thus far.
The trailer is loaded up after a sold out farmers market. Photo courtesy: Raven Breads.
Bellingham’s Sophie Williams is the founder of Raven Breads, which she runs completely solo. Sophie is conscientious, highly principled and fueled with passionate ideals. She also makes some really great bread.
Sophie’s organic, whole grain sourdough bread is made from ingredients sourced as locally as she can possibly find them. Sophie works very hard, sometimes putting in sixteen-hour days. But her efforts have paid off; after baking 7,200 loaves of bread last year, Raven Breads saw a 50 percent increase in business.
Sophie Williams provides organic wheat bread wholesale for Bellingham Cider Company. Photo courtesy: Raven Breads.
Sophie is originally from Seattle. She studied geology and ecology at Carleton College In Minnesota. She moved out to the islands after graduation and patched together a resume of ecology fieldwork, farmwork and construction, before moving to Skagit and then Bellingham to work for Viva Farms and Growing Washington.
After college, Sophie took three years to decide if her life’s work could be in farming. When she determined this path wasn’t for her, she began to bake bread. Making bread became her passion project. She loves working with her hands – she mixes and kneads every single batch of bread by hand!
Baker Sophie Williams mixes all of her bread dough by hand. Photo courtesy: Raven Breads.
Having her own company allows Sophie to work according to her own ideals, including bike-only transport. Her bike commute for all of 2017 was a whopping 1,200 miles. She also refuses to use even an ounce of white flour. “I want to be part of bread as food,” Sophie says, “to bake the kind of bread you want to eat.”
Her company is called Raven Breads because Sophie wanted a name that felt connected to this place. “I was intrigued by corvids (birds in the crow family) as a child,” she says. “I loved watching them, reading books on their natural history and reading Northwest native stories about Raven. So when I was searching for a name that felt tied to the Pacific Northwest, Raven Breads felt like a good fit.” The whimsical Raven logo was designed by fellow farmers market vendor and commercial artist Claudia Bernal.
A loaf of “wild and seedy” bread from the winter subscription menu. Photo courtesy: Raven Breads.
Raven Breads’ specialty is organic whole grain sourdough. Made in the tradition of heavy Scandinavian style bread, Sophie’s top-selling Mountain rye is pithy and absolutely vibrant with flavor. She comments on her website, “I love making flavor dense, ingredient-inspired bread and pastry.” She has the market cornered on this kind of bread.
Sophie and I met for a cup of coffee on a rainy morning. She arrived towing her bike trailer. If you’ve ever seen her riding the bicycle with the trailer piled high, you understand why “sometimes the commute with a trailer takes longer.”
Raven Breads on display at the Bellingham Farmers Market. Photo courtesy: Raven Breads.
As Sophie’s business evolved, she felt compelled to purchase a truck. Borrowing a friend’s car to pick up 50 pounds of flour was one thing; but when it became necessary to pick up hundreds of pounds of flour, having a vehicle seemed prudent.
The Raven Breads website features a delightful newsletter, which is inclusive, detailed and endearing. As Sophie describes her adventures and her passion for her work, readers really get a feel for her dynamic character and her terrific sense of humor. It’s a unique and authentic strategy to be vulnerable and open. The postings really work for her.
The trailer is loaded up after a sold out farmers market. Photo courtesy: Raven Breads.
Sophie dreams of having her very own brick-and-mortar store some day. This would allow her to expand her product line, delegate some of her to day-to-day tasks to employees and to mentor others who love to bake as much as she does. Until that store becomes reality, visit Sophie at the Farmers Market and give Raven Breads Mountain Rye a try!
Kevin Wiebe is a Ferndale native. Although he graduated from Ferndale High School, he admits he wasn't a model student. His teachers and administrators...
