Dreaming of the Northwest Washington Fair

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Northwest Washington Fair Happy Family In Stands — The Northwest Washington Fair is the perfect summer outing for the whole family. Photo courtesy: Northwest Washington Fair.

One gray day this past winter, as the sun traveled low in the sky on its way to setting, my four-year-old daughter dreamed of one of her favorite parts of summer. We were driving along a country road, her sisters snoozing on either side of her, when she drowsily, wistfully said, “Mom, when is the fair?”

The Northwest Washington Fair will be held August 14-19. Photo courtesy: Northwest Washington Fair.

Just like me, my daughter is a fair girl. The rides and games, the animals, the food on sticks – pretty much everything the fair has to offer, she likes and, apparently, dreams about all year long.

Well, we are now rapidly approaching fair season. And for my family, that means a trip to Lynden for the Northwest Washington Fair. We all have our favorite aspects. My husband heads to the swine barn, looking to learn as much as possible about the prize pigs by chatting with the farmers who raise them. For my girls, it’s a three-way tie between the Small Animal Experience, the Ferris wheel and cotton candy. For me, it’s watching the 4-H kids. I love seeing the pride and concentration that comes through while they show their animals. I love their values and politeness. These kids seem like they are from a different time. A simpler time. And maybe that is what the fair is to me. A step into a simpler time.

The Northwest Washington Fair gives kids a chance to showcase their livestock-raising skills. Photo courtesy: Northwest Washington Fair.

For Jim Baron, manager of the Northwest Washington Fair, the best thing about the fair is, “the tremendous variety of events.” There are 35 departments, each offering different displays of knowledge and interests such as fine art and woodworking, photography and beekeeping, to name a few. Jim tells me that, for him, the fair is, “a place where friends gather and people come together to form a community.” Teenagers mill about on the midway. Grandparents show off their homegrown produce and homemade pies. Parents lead their kids on a fascinating field trip to learn about where their food comes from. And everyone sits down together in the grandstand to watch a show.

All-day stage entertainment is included with your admission to the NW WA Fair. Photo courtesy: Northwest Washington Fair.

There are certain things we expect from the fair. Things that keep us coming back, that we want to stay the same forever. And there are new additions every year that are destined to become favorites.

New to the Northwest Washington Fair this year is X-Treme AirDogs, which is a competitive Dock Diving national championship series that combines first-time competitors with elite “Rock Star” K-9 handler teams in five divisions and four sports. According to the X-Treme AirDogs website, “Anyone with a dog and a ball can compete from first timers to seasoned pros.” If you have a dog that loves toys and water, be sure to visit the X-Treme AirDogs training location at the Northwest Washington Fair. Here, one of the highly-trained staff will help you participate in the event.

The Small Animal Experience is a favorite exhibit at the Northwest Washington Fair. Photo courtesy: Northwest Washington Fair.

Back by very popular demand this year is the Wenatchee Youth Circus. Known as the, “Biggest Little Circus in the World,” WYC is a non-professional group performing professional-quality feats including high-wire, flying trapeze, fire acts and aerial acts. The WYC has traveled the Pacific Northwest for over 60 years, performing for crowds large and small. The members practice year round to perfect their craft in order to awe their audiences.

And there is a new aspect to a long-standing fair favorite. This year admission for kids under 10 is free for the Lynden PRCA Rodeo, a family event that has been a huge draw for over a decade. People pack the stands, captivated by both the roughstock events—bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding—and the timed events—steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping and barrel racing.

Ultimately, what keeps me returning to the NW WA Fair every year is a combination of new and old. I want to see the mainstays through the eyes of my ever-changing, growing children, for whom everything is new. And I also appreciate the vision of people like Jim Baron who work hard to keep things at the fair fresh and interesting and keep me and my daughter dreaming all winter long.

Northwest Washington Fair

1775 Front Street in Lynden
www.nwwafair.com

2017 Fair Hours, August 14-19

Gate Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Carnival Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Vendor Booths: open at 10:00 a.m.

Gate Admission Prices

Adult (13-61 years): $13.00
Senior (62+ years): $11.00
Youth (6-12 years): $8.00
Children 5 and Under: Free

Carnival Prices

Carnival Wristband: $33.00

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Bellingham’s Dale Serbousek Finds Community and Accomplishment in Running

By

Jennifer Dodge

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Dale Serbousek Running Marathon Race — Dale Serbousek completed his first marathon in 2016. Photo courtesy: Dale Serbousek.

Bellingham’s Dale Serbousek, a real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, Inc. recalls reading a book about the challenge of running a full marathon and being inspired to run a marathon himself. He purchased a book on how to train and plan for a marathon and set out to find the perfect event for him.

real estate agent — Dale Serbousek has a passion for helping people find options for their Whatcom County real estate needs. Photo courtesy: Dale Serbousek.

“My goal was just to finish,” Serbousek says of completing his first, the Vancouver Marathon, in 2016.

Having incorporated running into his overall wellness plan back in 2010, he knew that running was an effective form of exercise for him. Including the marathon was part of that challenge. “I have to have a purpose and a goal,” describes Serbousek of his training process. “I have to have a reason and a plan to follow.”

Since completing his first marathon, he has run the Bellingham Bay Half Marathon as well as signed up for the Lake Padden Triathlon, his first triathlon consisting of a swim portion, a bike portion and a run portion.

Along the way, Serbousek was supported and inspired by the many local runners and event participants he has come to know through his training. “I’ve gotten to know even more people in the community as a result of deciding to train for these events,” he says. “There is great value in meeting new people and learning new things.”

Dale Serbousek completed his first marathon in 2016. Photo courtesy: Dale Serbousek.

One such person is Mo Trainor, owner of Train-Or-Tri who was recommended to Serbousek for bike fitting. “You would think I was the only person she was working with,” he says of her dedication to supporting and helping him as he began training for his first triathlon.

He also described what he called a, “really cool device,” he got from a client and local podiatrist who is also an endurance runner to successfully stretch out his calves. The connections he has formed within the running community have given Serbousek knowledge and support that have proven to be very valuable to his success. Serbousek is considering even adding another triathlon to his calendar as he continues to set his own goals with the support of this wonderful community.

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Whatcom County Weekend Events for July 28—30

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Events Editor

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17-3 — In Whatcom County, we truly have amazing local food. Photo credit: Theresa Golden.

Just like that, July is almost gone. It’s crazy how quickly the summer months go by. But don’t worry, you still have one weekend left. So make the most of it! Start by checking out these fun Whatcom County weekend events, including our great local farmers’ markets. Don’t forget to check our full events calendar for all the great local happenings this weekend.

Check out Reader’s Theatre Shakespeare Camp
Rock and roll with Pigs on the Wing—a Tribute to Pink Floyd
Do your part and have some fun at Meals on Wheels Rocks the Farm
Take in WWU’s presentation of Graffiti Dance Theatre.
Get cultured at the Pickford Theatre’s presentation of Otello.
Forage for Fun.
Be delighted at The Lion King Jr.
Stock up on fresh, locally grown, healthy produce at the Ferndale Farmers Market, Bellingham Farmers Market and Twin Sisters Farmers Market.
Get in a good laugh at The Upfront Theatre’s An Improvised Musical.
Try some delicious Ethiopian Food.
Indulge in some classic summer activities.
Take the family out to eat at these delicious and affordable local restaurants.
Jump in the water and go for a swim.
Enjoy Fairhaven’s Fourth Friday Art Walk.
Set sail and celebrate Community Boating Center’s 10th Anniversary.
Hit the trails for some of the best mountain biking in the state.
Develop your relaxation and awareness skills at this Sun Salutation Workshop.
Hike the great outdoors.
Cook up something fresh.
Get up and dance at Mr. Feelgood & The Firm Believers’ concert in the park.

Up Next Weekend:

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.

Vote for Peoples Bank and Enfield Farms!

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LocalTalk Contributor

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Peoples Bank has worked with Enfield Farms to help them grow and prosper. Photo courtesy: Peoples Bank.

Submitted by: Peoples Bank

We are pleased to announce that Peoples Bank was named a finalist for the American Bankers Association (ABA) Bank Marketing Video Awards for its video featuring the bank’s 23-year long relationship with local Lynden customer Enfield Farms. During this time, Enfield Farms has grown from harvesting 80 acres of berries, to today growing, harvesting, processing and packing well over 1,000 acres and 14 million pounds of berries. Peoples Bank’s Bill Irving has worked with the Enfield family on all aspects of the business, including transferring the operation to the next generation. According to second generation owner Andy Enfield, “It’s super important to have a bank that understands the business and the community.”

Winners will be selected by online votes until July 31, combined with judges’ scores, so we hope you’ll check out the video and share your vote. It would be a tremendous honor to represent Lynden and Whatcom County community at the awards ceremony at the ABA Bank Marketing Conference in New Orleans in September.

Voting information is available at: http://ababankmarketing.com/conference/video-awards/.

Click “Vote Now” on the Enfield Farms & Trust video (located in the bank asset category $1 Billion – $5 Billion).

Thank you for your support!

About Peoples Bank

Peoples Bank is a locally owned and operated, independent community bank with almost $1.6 billion in assets. Headquartered in Bellingham, Washington, the Bank was founded in Lynden in 1921 and operates 25 branches throughout Washington. In its most recent rating, Bauer Financial, a leading independent bank rating firm, awarded Peoples Bank a superior rating of five stars. This rating recognizes Peoples Bank’s strong financial management practices, dedicated employees and long-standing customer relationships.

Experience the Exemplary Art of Edward Praczukowski at The Mount Bakery

By

Kenneth Clarkson

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Edward Praczukowski the mount bakery inside — Celebrate Mother's Day with a special brunch at Mount Bakery. Photo credit: Kenneth Clarkson.

It’s common to walk into one of The Mount Bakery’s two locations and be greeted with pleasant aromas that instantly induce mouth-watering hunger. It’s safe to say The Mount Bakery appeals to the sense of smell. But upon entering the new Fairhaven location, your sense of sight will join the same party your sense of smell is currently dancing at. Vivid and vibrant landscape paintings by Seattle artist Edward Praczukowski grace the walls at the restaurant in preparation of Fairhaven’s Fourth Friday Art Walk.

Edward Praczukowski’s plant paintings are beautiful and meaningful. Photo credit: Kenneth Clarkson.

Praczukowski, 87, is a former professor of painting and drawing at The University of Washington who hasn’t featured his art publically that often in recent years. But due to a special connection with The Mount Bakery owner Vince Lalonde, Praczukowski has allowed his plant painting series to be a part of Fairhaven’s new Fourth Friday Art Walk. Lalonde has known Praczukowski for 45 years dating back to his first day of third grade where he befriended Praczukowski’s son, Konrad.

Lalonde, an artist and avid painter himself, said Praczukowski and his wife Anne, a former metalsmith who taught at the Cornish College of the Arts, have been the greatest inspirations throughout his life due to their commitment to art, craftsmanship and approach to life. “My whole life I grew up in awe of them. They showed me you don’t have to make a million dollars from your craft in order to love it. They taught me that art is a way of life,” Lalonde says.

Lalonde remembers being a child and watching Praczukowski paint and work on art projects. He says he never thought that one day he would have his art hanging up in a restaurant he owns. Lalonde says it is a pleasure he gets to share these paintings and they are the kinds of works that could even be hung up in large well-respected art galleries. Currently, Lalonde and Praczukowski’s sons are working on getting him a bigger retrospective for his art.

The Mount Bakery’s Fairhaven location is where the work of Edward Praczukowski will be on display during Fairhaven’s Fourth Friday Art Walk on July 28. Photo credit: Vince Lalonde.

As if the delicious food at The Mount Bakery wasn’t reason enough to check out the new Fairhaven location, Lalonde says customers have been coming in just to see the artwork. “A whole number of people have said they will come back into the restaurant just to be surrounded and immersed in the paintings,” Lalonde says.

Praczukowski’s plant painting series was the result of going on a drive through clear-cut areas of the Skagit Valley in the 1990s. The valley was getting deforested at a remarkably fast pace during the decade, and Praczukowski says in a statement that he wanted his art to encourage people to protect the trees and plants around them. By painting the natural landscapes in vibrant and lush colors, Praczukowski looked to tie together the themes of plant growth and energy. Lalonde says Praczukowski, even at 87, remains an avid painter to this day.

Although the art walk will take place when The Mount Bakery is normally closed, Lalonde assures the Fairhaven location will be open for business during the events. These take place from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, July 28.

Edward Praczukowski’s plant painting series brightens up the interior of The Mount Bakery’s Fairhaven location. Photo credit: Kenneth Clarkson.

The Mount Bakery will be one of 18 participants in Fairhaven’s first Fourth Friday Art Walk. The art walk will continue to take place on the last Friday of every month from July to November. The first event will be on July 28 and the final art walk will be on Nov. 24. The art walk is meant to shed light on the artwork of both budding and veteran artists.

Lalonde says Praczukowski’s work will be featured in the July art walk and may even still be up during the event taking place in August. In addition to art demonstrations, there will be entertainment and beverages at many of the participating businesses.

Currently, paintings in Praczukowski’s plant painting series displayed in The Mount Bakery are not for sale, Lalonde says. “Ed is the perfect representative of what it means to be a craftsman. He truly has embraced art and craftsmanship as a way of life. I am so touched and honored to be able to help share these paintings with the Bellingham and Whatcom County community.”

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Building Trust through Community Involvement in Whatcom County

By

Sara Holodnick

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springhill-salesmanager — The staff at SpringHill and TownePlace Suites by Marriott are so involved in the community that Sales Manager, Carolyn Gill, received the MVP award from the Bellingham Chamber of Commerce in May 2017. Photo courtesy: Marriott Properties.

SpringHill Suites and TownePlace Suites by Marriott in Bellingham pride themselves on connecting with local businesses and individuals through community involvement in Whatcom County. From donating meeting space and gift certificates to local nonprofits, to offering complimentary overnight stays to cancer patients, staff at SpringHill and TownePlace Suites look for opportunities to build meaningful relationships with businesses and organizations of all sizes.

Business Built on Meaningful Relationships

The staff at SpringHill and TownePlace Suites looks for opportunities to build meaningful relationships with businesses and organizations of all sizes. Photo courtesy: Marriott Properties.

So much of the business that happens in Whatcom County occurs because of relationships. People here like to shop, eat and play where we feel a personal connection. Because locals like to support people they know, Director of Sales, Elisa George and her team seek opportunities to build authentic connections.

“I’m responsible for the revenue generated at SpringHill Suites and TownePlace Suites,” shared George. “Of course I don’t control 100 percent of that. Probably about 40 percent of our traffic flows in naturally because of the Marriott loyalty. Myself and the two people on my sales team are focused on the local corporations here, building relationships with people who book travel for their organization.”

“I used to work in Bellevue and Seattle before I moved up here and everything was so transactional,” she explained. “It’s so much different here in Bellingham because we don’t have those large tech companies up here. It’s not me picking up the phone and telemarketing. Instead it’s me showing up at a Chamber breakfast or going to a networking event and meeting that person. It slows down the process and it is so much more rewarding.”

Building community relationships is engrained in the culture of SpringHill and TownePlace Suites and that begins at the top with the properties’ General Manager, Keith Coleman.

SpringHill Suites donates use of their meeting facilities for a local nonprofit’s board meetings. “We’re not going to just let a space sit empty when there’s a need in Bellingham,” said Sales Director, Elisa George. Photo courtesy: Marriott Properties.

“I feel like he’s on every board,” shared George. That’s not surprising since Coleman sits on the Bellingham/Whatcom County Tourism Board, Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce Board, Tourism Commission, Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, Whatcom Community College Hospitality Advisory Board and he serves as the Washington Hospitality Association Ambassador to the 40^th and 42^nd Districts.

“He really understands that it’s not just running the hotel but that this business is about building relationships in the community,” said George.

In addition to serving in leadership roles on boards, the team members at SpringHill and TownePlace Suites look for ways to support local nonprofits by offering their unique resources. “We’ve been able to partner with local nonprofits, like Blue Skies for Children, to sponsor their monthly board meetings by providing a meeting space for them,” shared George. “We’re not going to just let a space sit empty when there’s a need in Bellingham … Offering a complimentary room night doesn’t bring in revenue, but yet the relationship defined from offering that has brought in so many more contacts,” said George. “It’s about building trust.”

Helping Businesses of All Sizes

The staff at SpringHill and TownePlace Suites by Marriott are so involved in the community that Sales Manager, Carolyn Gill, received the MVP award from the Bellingham Chamber of Commerce in May 2017. Photo courtesy: Marriott Properties.

If you’re a small business owner, you might not realize that you can reach out to George and her team to chat about discounts if you travel throughout the year. “You don’t need a ton of travel,” she explained. “There’s a handful of big businesses we work with but 75 percent of the businesses we work with are small businesses. We work with a ton of accounts who bring in maybe 50 room nights a year and offer a discount for that partnership. There are opportunities to save money on hotel stays by partnering with us.”

Developing a rapport with smaller businesses can be a bit more work to start with but George and her team find that the resulting relationships are well worth the investment. “While it takes more time and energy to make connections with all the different small companies, it equals what you would see from a large company,” said George. And while this approach has made her goal of bringing revenue into the hotels easier to achieve, it’s the relationships she’s built that are most valuable to her. “I really feel like most of my clients are my friends,” she said.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott
4040 Northwest Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-714-9600
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/blish-springhill-suites-bellingham

TownePlace Suites by Marriott
4050 Northwest Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-714-9700
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/blits-towneplace-suites-bellingham

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Jennifer Leigh Couture Veils—Made in Bellingham

By

Taylor Lisa Bailey

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One of Jennifer Leigh's lace veils, with her label on the comb. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

When you enter the office of Jennifer Leigh Couture Veils and Accessories, you immediately know you are not in a typical business office. Hanging plants, large flowers and succulents fill the space. Big open windows flood in natural light. Two parakeets sing songs in the corner. The walls are painted cream, pink and black and are lined with framed magazine covers and articles. You spot quirky items like a giant ball of yarn for sitting and a massive golden-framed mirror. And hanging all around this beautiful art studio are bridal veils made right here in Bellingham.

Jennifer Leigh began designing and making these head pieces for a few close friends and family members who were getting married. It’s come a long way, with an expanding inventory of designs, since then. Cascading veils with ribbon, lace, gems and pearls and beads, a material called “horse hair” that causes a beautiful ripple, applications from gingerly placed lace – each veil is unique.

Jennifer (holding the veil) with employee Maggie (serving as the model) work on a new design. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

Jenny and her husband, Jeff, have been able to partner together since the very beginning, turning this from a fun way to be involved in loved ones’ weddings, to a thriving business helping brides feel special and beautiful. It was 1998 when they decided to pack up and move back to Bellingham, where they both had attended Western Washington University and where Jeff was born.

“We decided to pick somewhere to really grow our business and start our family,” Jenny told me. And that they did. They now organize orders from as far abroad as Japan, make business trips around the U.S. for fashion weeks or trunk shows (where Jenny brings or sends a “trunk” of her veils to a shop or boutique for a special viewing) and have expanded to eight extra people helping them produce their veils. They also have two wonderful children, Lily and Julien, who are 14 and 12.

The giant ball of yarn serves as a chair while a veil is being sewn. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

“This business comes with a lot of travel and before I had Lily and Julien I would go either alone or with Jeff on most of our trips,” Jenny said. “Trunk shows or our twice-a-year expositions in Chicago and New York City became a little too hard for me leaving the kids, so Jeff kept it up. Both Lily and Julien have had the opportunity to travel with Jeff and me throughout the years on these great adventures.”

The magazine covers and articles framed on her walls all feature Jenny’s veils. “We send samples out to magazines for photo shoots,” she told me when I first started sewing for her. “They’ll send them back after a bit, most of the time without notice of if it’ll be in the magazine. Once, when I was sent an issue that I had given some veils, I tore it open and went through every single page – nothing! I was disappointed, holding the magazine, when Jeff smiled and said, ‘Hey, you’re on the cover!'”

This collection of veils is ready to be sent to New York City for a show. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

Now there are many covers and magazine spreads with Jenny’s veils, even though it is still a small, local operation.

Jenny still sews veils for friends and family getting married. When I got married in July of 2016, Jenny had me bring in my wedding dress and she helped me pick a veil to match it. Funnily enough, it was one that had been named after me!

Working with Jenny and Jeff really does feel more like a family than a business. There was one day when I was working late and Jenny brought me a sandwich from her home. The kids come in and hang out or bring odd things in like that giant ball of yarn. Jeff buys lunch for all the people sewing each Tuesday, just to be kind. We name the veils after our sisters, mothers, aunts, cousins and friends. And they always keep the kitchen stocked with little goodies like energy bars, fruit or chocolate candies.

A busy work station where lace is cut for future veils. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

If you are in the market for a wedding veil or hair piece, ask your bridal stores if they carry Jennifer Leigh Veils. They are handmade, local and lovingly made. Of course, if you aren’t looking to buy bridal accessories in the near future, you can still smile knowing that we have such a special item being made here in Whatcom County.

Celebrate the End of Summer at the Ferndale Street Festival

By

Kali Klotz-Brooks

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rsz_ferndale_street_festival_music — Listen to music from the main stage and relax in the beer tent, sponsored by Phillips 66. Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re a local, you know there is no better place to be than in Whatcom County during the summer months. With the warm weather comes fun events like the Saturday and Wednesday Farmers’ Markets, Flicks in the Park, Downtown Sounds and, to wrap up the season, the Ferndale Street Festival. This will mark the Festival’s 14^th year and the Ferndale Chamber of Commerce has been busy planning everything you know and love, plus a bit extra. On Friday, August 25, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. and Saturday, August 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., come celebrate summer before school starts back up!

The Ferndale Street Festival will be fun for the whole family. Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.

Audrey Audette, the Chamber’s Event and Program Coordinator says, “We shut down Main, 1st, 2nd and 3rd and it branches out from those streets. There are about 10,000 people that visit over those two days.”

You know a town means business when entire streets are blocked off to anything other than dancing, eating and shopping. There will be live music all day on the main stage, featuring everything from blue grass to classic rock. You’ll even be able to listen to local bands such as Blind Fate and Marlin James from the beer tent, which is sponsored by Phillips 66. Stay tuned to find out what fun theme the tent will be this year, as it is yet to be decided.

Listen to music from the main stage and relax in the beer tent, sponsored by Phillips 66. Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to music, the main stage will also be hosting something new and exciting – a pie-eating contest sponsored by Haggen Northwest Fresh. There will be three separate age brackets that include ages 10 and younger, an 11 – 18 bracket and an 18 and up bracket. Contact Audrey to sign up before the festival weekend so you don’t miss out on a chance to compete against your significant other or watch your little ones stuff their faces.

However, if pie isn’t necessarily your chow of choice, there will be plenty of other meal options. All down Main Street there are going to be local Bellingham and Ferndale food trucks available. “We have more signed up than last year so far, so lots to choose from,” says Audrey. And while the beer tent is sure to be a hit, there will also be some outdoor venues for the over 21 crowd at local restaurants.

What is a street festival without delicious street eats? Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.

This year the festival is partnering with Sustainable Connections and participating in the Toward Zero Waste program. Audrey explains, “We are doing it on the food street, which is where most of our waste is produced.” The program helps businesses and events, like the Ferndale Street Festival, to reduce their waste by promoting the implementation of recycling and the use of compostable products. Volunteers dedicated to reducing waste will be around during the festival to help out with this specific program and make a noticeable difference.

If you are interested in being involved with the Toward Zero Waste program, or just helping out with the festival in general, volunteers are still needed and would be much appreciated. Please contact Audrey if you are interested in helping out for a couple of hours.

Apply to be a part of the Festival of Fenders Car Show! It is already shaping up to be bigger than ever. Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.

The Festival of Fenders Car Show is also happening at the Street Festival again this year. In fact, it has become so popular that it is going to fill up an entire block of its own! If you have a classic or antique car you want to show off, apply online and join all the other car owners and lovers. Maybe you’ll even win a trophy!

The car show will be happening from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, followed by a duck race put on by the Rotary Club of Whatcom County North.

Kids attending the Ferndale Street Festival will be well taken care of, as they have an entire street dedicated to them with their own attractions and stage. Reptile Isle, a show done by a zoologist who specializes in exotic animals, will make an appearance on the kids’ stage. “He brings reptiles the kids can play with,” Audrey explains. “They love him.” There will also be a bouncy house, a petting zoo, kid’s zumba and music, just to name a few of the happenings. “We are putting together the whole nine yards,” she says.

The Whatcom County North Rotary Club will be hosting their annual Ducky Derby at the Ferndale Street Festival again this year. Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.

Your furry friend is welcome as well. This event is pet friendly and there will even be two-hour pet sitting available at the local groomer. Don’t leave anyone at home!

The Ferndale Street Festival claimed the titles of 2011, 2012 and 2016’s “Ferndale’s Best Community Event,” and with all that is in store for this year, you wouldn’t want to miss out. Downtown Ferndale is only a 15-minute drive from Bellingham. You don’t have to travel far to celebrate the last bit of summer with everyone else in the area.

For directions, more information and contacts, visit the Ferndale Street Festival’s website.

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Creating Great Summer Eats from Joe’s Gardens

By

LocalTalk Contributor

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Submitted by: Joe’s Gardens, written by Kevin Coleman

Food really is an extension of happiness, and I love creating happiness with those around me. Cooking is a passion for me. I’m always looking for new things and recipes that my family will enjoy eating, while still being healthy. Because eating healthy is important for me, as well as buying local as much as possible, there are a few places that are staples for my kitchen and cooking needs. If you are looking to find great local produce then you need to head to Joe’s Gardens. I love my weekly visits there in the late spring and summer. Many times, you can find great inspiration in the produce they have. Not to mention the local flowers, eggs, honey and the odd and end things you can get at Joe’s Gardens all the time.

This dish is delicious and easy to make. Photo courtesy: Kevin Coleman.

This week, I found a number of things that I just had to have to create a great lettuce wrap with curry and yogurt chicken, and a mild peanut sauce. Not only is this meal fairly easy to prepare, but it’s also refreshing, colorful and can be served hot or cold. I prefer hot but to each their own. Plus, my two teenage boys like it. So that’s a parenting win anytime!

First, you want to get the produce. The produce is the key to overall freshness and taste. I found a great crispy romaine and a beautiful, purple variegated butter lettuce for my wraps. This is delicious combined in a huge garden salad as well on the side if you wish. It was also important to get some green onion, cilantro (optional for those non-cilantro folks), garlic, ginger, jalapeno (just in case I wanted to add to the peanut sauce) and a tomato for the chicken part of the dish.

I love this dish because of the various options you can create with it, as well as the easy prep and clean up. So, let’s get started!

You’ll find the perfect ingredients for great summer eats at Joe’s Gardens. Photo courtesy: Kevin Coleman.

Marinade:

Combine the yogurt, ginger, garlic and curry powder in a shallow mixing bowl. Stir to combine. Add salt and pepper for taste. Chop chicken up in bite size pieces and add to the bowl. Let the chicken and ingredients marinate for an hour or two in the refrigerator.

Cooking:

Take a sauté pan and add a little sesame oil and olive oil and get the pan really hot. Place the chicken mixture into the pan and start to cook. Add green onions and cilantro half way through the cooking to add more flavor. I personally like to add it to my yogurt and curry mixture and cook it all together. Some may prefer more crispness in their green onion and cilantro. Right before the chicken is completely done, add one chopped tomato and sprinkle a little feta on top. Cover and prep the lettuce leafs for the wraps.

Peanut Sauce:

Simply saute ingredients to perfection. Photo courtesy: Kevin Coleman.

Combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, red chili paste, brown sugar, finely diced jalapeno and lime juice in a food processor or blender. Puree to combine. While the motor is running, drizzle in the hot water to thin out the sauce – you may not need all of it. Pour the sauce into a nice serving bowl and garnish with the chopped peanuts. (This is optional as well.)

Prep:

Take the lettuce leaves off one by one from the head and wash them. Then dry them with a paper towel. Put them into the refrigerator to crisp up. The larger lettuce leaves do great for that perfect burrito wrap style and feel. Put two spoonsful of chicken mixture onto the lettuce leaves and then drizzle the peanut sauce on it. (You can also have the peanut sauce to the side for dipping if you prefer.)

This dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. Photo courtesy: Kevin Coleman.

Ingredients Needed

1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 diced tomato
½ cup feta cheese
Olive and sesame oil for sautéing
Fresh butter or romaine lettuce leaves
½ cup diced fresh green onions
Fresh cilantro leaves

Marinade

1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt adds a little more tang if you want that taste.)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons curry powder

The key to this recipe is in the fresh produce. Photo courtesy: Kevin Coleman.

Peanut Sauce

1 cup smooth peanut butter
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons red chili paste, such as sambal
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 jalapeno pepper
2 limes, juiced
1/2 cup hot water
1/4 cup chopped peanuts for garnish

This is one of many meals that are easy to make and create enough. You can get the whole family involved in the cooking. You also have the option to switch out the protein – beef for land lovers, jumbo prawns for those seafood lovers or a bean combination for those who are vegan. You can even create an entire platter of wraps for a summer outdoor gathering or a fun get together with friends and family. The options really are up to you and your creativity. So be sure to find the ingredients for your favorite summer eats at Joe’s Gardens—your local source for inspirational cuisine. Have fun in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

Marilynn Huffman Makes a Difference for Heart Patients

By

Tessa Kilcline - Intern from Bellingham High School

-

Marilynn Huffman with Jessica — "I was privileged to introduce Jessica Rogers, prior to her recent heart transplant, as the winner of the Mended Hearts national award for her video telling about her experience with an LVAD (left ventricular assistance device) and how it had effected her and her life," Huffman says. Photo courtesy: Marilynn Huffman.

In December 2010, Marilynn Huffman was told that she needed heart surgery. Now, over six years later, she devotes herself to helping others who are going through the same experience.

Huffman advocates for heart patients and represents Mended Hearts at a Cardiac Nurses conference. Photo courtesy: Marilynn Huffman.

Mended Hearts is a, “peer to peer support group for heart patients and their caregivers.” Huffman is the president of Chapter 382 in Bellingham. It is a volunteer position and Huffman was elected for the first time in 2015 and for the second time in 2017. Prior to that, she held positions as secretary and vice president.

Huffman is present at meetings for the board of directors and at meetings for the members. The meetings are held monthly. Besides attending meetings, Huffman has a variety of jobs which she does in the hopes of carrying out the Mended Hearts mission to help patients. Often she seeks out opportunities to give presentations to hospital staff, service organizations and community members. Other parts of her job include interacting with Mended Hearts members, answering their questions and helping calm their fears.

In April 2017, Young Mended Hearts of Northwest Washington celebrated two years of making a difference in the lives of young heart patients in the northwest. Photo courtesy: Marilynn Huffman.

“After my own open heart surgery I found I could relate to the fears and anxiety people feel when they learn they have a serious heart issue,” Huffman explains. “I also realized that by helping others, I was helping myself.” Huffman devotes much of her time to helping others and she does it because she wants to, not for pay. Not only does she take time out of her schedule to visit members in the hospital after their surgeries, but she encourages others to make a difference in the lives of fellow heart patients.

In 2014, Mended Hearts had 50 volunteers through PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. These volunteers work with both heart patients and their families and caregivers. Many make a difference through Young Mended Hearts, which is a Mended Hearts group aimed specifically at younger people, from their teens to their forties. Younger heart patients often have different concerns than older heart patients because they are in a different phase of life. Young Mended Hearts recognizes these differences and needs and makes sure to give people of all ages the support that they need. In order to help people in a variety of circumstances and phases of life, former heart patients and caregivers volunteer through both Mended Hearts and Young Mended Hearts. For Huffman, it is inspiring to see these former heart patients and caregivers help others after their own experiences.

“I was privileged to introduce Jessica Rogers, prior to her recent heart transplant, as the winner of the Mended Hearts national award for her video telling about her experience with an LVAD (left ventricular assistance device) and how it had affected her and her life,” Huffman says. Photo courtesy: Marilynn Huffman.

“Our members make Mended Hearts and Young Mended Hearts special,” Huffman says. “They are people who have faced challenges either as patients or their caregivers, risen to that challenge and now want to make a difference in the lives of others.” Mended Hearts members come together to express concerns, share ideas and encourage one another. It is a special group, where people come to support one another and feel supported in return.

Members also receive another form of support through guest speakers who come to meetings. Cardiologists and other doctors share their knowledge, answer questions and clear up misconceptions. These sessions are free of charge and open to all.

Huffman draws extreme satisfaction from helping people. Through her position at Mended Hearts, she is able to extend her helping hand to a large group of people. Huffman reflects, “When I leave a patient’s hospital room, answer a call from a frightened patient, leave a meeting with hospital staff and most especially leave a Young Mended Hearts meeting, I know that I am doing exactly what I am meant to do.”

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