No cubicle walls pen in WhatcomTalk’s Community Manager, Stacee Sledge. WhatcomWorkflow wanted to know more about what Stacee’s home office looked like.
Stacee met WhatcomWorkflow’s Chris Powell at a recent event when she was a panel presenter about online branding. “Chris approached me after the event about interviewing me for his new project,” says Stacee.
“It was fun to really examine how I work best and which tools make me most productive and efficient,” she says. “WhatcomTalk approaches local media in a whole new way, so my work routine is unlike anything I’ve experienced before (meaning it’s far more flexible — and fulfilling). Talking with WhatcomWorkflow about how I get things done really put that into perspective.”
WhatcomTalk is a digital media company sharing positive stories about people, places and businesses in Whatcom County. WhatcomTalk offers content marketing and online options to advertise across our community social network in Bellingham, Lynden, Ferndale and beyond. Advertise with WhatcomTalk to reach your target market, grow your brand, and measure results.
Whether you’ve consumed cannabis in one of its many forms or not, there’s no doubt that this green-leafed drug has sparked the curiosity of consumers and non-consumers alike. As recreational cannabis sales continue to increase across the state, one Whatcom County retailer is leading the way, grossing more than $500,000 in sales for the month of May alone.
2020 Solutions was among the first recreational marijuana retailers in the state of Washington. With two locations — one in the Sunnyland neighborhood and the other in North Bellingham — 2020 Solutions is able to cater to a wide variety of customers at all levels of cannabis experience.
“The stereotypical cannabis consumer is far from the reality of who the actual consumer is,” explained 2020 Solutions’ Director of Actualization, Aaron Nelson. “They’re lawyers, teachers, small business owners, and soccer moms.” The typical cannabis consumer isn’t really typical at all, and 2020 Solutions is working hard to make sure that people from all backgrounds have a relaxed experience while shopping with them. Due to recent changes in Washington State laws, 2020 Solutions will also be serving medical marijuana customers as of July 1, 2016.
“Our number one goal when we opened the stores was to serve others,” added Nelson. “We make sure we serve our guests from a place of love.”
With sales increasing on a monthly basis, there’s no doubt 2020 Solutions has grabbed the attention of locals. “We’re Whatcom County’s favorite recreational marijuana store,” said Nelson. “Everything we do we ask: Is it good for the customer? If it’s not, we don’t do it.” This commitment goes beyond a simple transactional relationship. Because of their focus on the comfort of their guests, 2020 Solutions estimates that roughly 90% of their daily visitors are repeat customers.
“We make it a point to know our guests,” Nelson said. “If they got a new puppy or a new job, or if they got married or their grandkids are in town, we know because we care. We really form tight bonds with our regulars.”
So what should a new cannabis shopper expect when walking into 2020 Solutions? The first thing I noticed when I visited was that a knowledgeable, friendly person was there to guide me every step of the way. Because shoppers must be at least 21 years of age to enter the store, I just had to show my ID to a staff member at the reception podium before entering the retail area.
Once inside, I saw that the sales floor was clean and open, with cases dotting the perimeter and digital menus mounted on the walls. There isn’t much product out on display for one important reason: Overwhelm.
“We treat every guest like it’s their first visit every time,” said 2020 Solutions Budtender Tausha Nunley, who said she’s visited a few other recreational marijuana retail stores, but the atmosphere and care for customers at 2020 Solutions sealed the deal for her. “Once I came into 2020 Solutions, I never really wanted to go anywhere else.”
Backed by a knowledgeable staff that’s committed to helping each customer from the minute they step through the door to the time they walk out creates an inviting atmosphere for cannabis newcomers and returning guests alike.
“Rather than having 300 jars displayed, we ask how you want to feel when you’re using the product,” shared Nelson. Just like a good bartender will help steer you toward a cocktail based on your tastes, budtenders will guide you toward the right products based on the experience you want to have. Whether you plan on doing something active like hiking or gardening, or you’re interested in vegging out at home with a movie or video game, budtenders will help you navigate your options.
The Guide Meridian location is warm and comfortable, feeling more like a coffee shop than recreational marijuana store. Photo courtesy: 2020 Solutions.
“We’re not selling a product,” said Nelson. “We’re providing an experience.” 2020 Solutions does a great job of creating a warm atmosphere — there’s nothing cold or sterile about their stores. The Guide Meridian location even has plushy chairs in the center of the sales floor, making it feel more like a coffee shop than what you might expect a cannabis store to be.
Whether you’re brand new to cannabis or not, there’s a good chance you’ll be introduced to new ways of consuming it when you head into their shop. 2020 Solutions carries everything from Washington-grown marijuana to infused cocktail mixers, honey, edibles, teas, and tinctures. They also have a great selection of vaporizers and locally blown glass to boot. They take great care in partnering with growers who are able to provide a consistent, high-quality product.
“We limit the number of growers we work with because, just like we maintain a great relationship with our guests, we strive to maintain great relationships with the people growing the cannabis,” said Nelson. On the off chance that there are any problems, the businesses are able to resolve issues quickly due to their shared goals.
And shoppers can visit even if they don’t have any intention of buying anything. 2020 Solutions extends an open invitation to anyone of legal age who is curious to see it for themselves.
“When we’re serving our guests, we’re not trying to make a sale,” Nelson said. “If you leave with gaining knowledge from our budtenders and don’t spend any money, we’re totally okay with that. We want our guests to be comfortable, so we’re happy to show you what cannabis looks like in all its different forms.”
You can take advantage of this open invitation at either of 2020 Solutions’ locations (just don’t forget to bring your ID!):
Iron Street 2018 Iron Street
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-734-2020
North Bellingham 5655 Guide Meridian
Bellingham, WA 98226
360-734-2020
Local actor, writer, producer, and comedian Glen Nelson Bristow performs at most of Bellinghams stand-up venues. Photo credit: Sue Mattson.
Stand-up is a unique kind of comedy. Unlike sketch, improvisational, tragic and musical comedy, stand-up relies on the insights and talents of a single individual. As the comic stands center-stage with the light shining into his or her face, the comedian’s voice, attitude, and timing defines their unique style. Their own creativity makes — or breaks — the experience of the audience.
Stand-up comedians have been entertaining us — and making us see the world in new ways — since the variety and burlesque shows that flourished in New York City’s turn-of-the-century vaudeville theater. That hilarious, occasionally gritty and unpredictable, stand-up tradition continues here in Whatcom County.
Local comedian Karianne Nelson gets into her performance. Photo credit: Lee Cox.
Below we’ve profiled a few of the Bellingham venues that regularly offer and support this beloved art form that continues to make us laugh until we cry.
Guffawingham at The Green Frog Acoustic Tavern
The free Monday night open mic, Guffawingham, at the Green Frog Acoustic Tavern — known around town as simply, The Frog — has provided both emerging and seasoned local and regional comedians an opportunity to try new bits in front of a willing audience.
Local actor, writer, producer and comedian Glen Nelson Bristow did his first stand-up set at a Guffawingham open mic when it was just getting started. “Since 2013, Monday nights at Guffawingham have been a fun chance to see new comedians learning the ropes,” notes Bristow. “My stand-up sets, like many comedians, are largely about relationships.”
The Frog is a Bellingham staple with an industrial vibe and quality sound. While listening to the numerous short sets, patrons can enjoy great local beers, a wide variety of whiskey, or their famous grilled cheese sandwiches. My favorite is the Michael Boston: cheddar, bacon, corn and barbeque sauce grilled on thick bread to perfection.
The Green Frog Acoustic Tavern
1015 N State Street
Bellingham, WA 98225 www.acoustictavern.com Mondays at 9:30 p.m.
Western Washington University alumni Justin Shepherd performed stand-up in Bellingham before moving to Los Angeles to pursue a comedy acting career. Photo courtesy: The Upfront Theatre.
Stand-Up at The Upfront Theatre
The 100-seat cabaret-style Upfront Theatre, owned by famed “Whose Line is it Anyway?” comedian Ryan Stiles, offers stand-up on the first Thursday of each month. Stand-up is hosted by Mainstage Ensemble member Cecilee Beck and costs only $5. The stand-up show follows the long-time improv show The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly, where Stiles himself will occasionally surprise the audience with his own clever, and sometimes devious, improv performance. Many patrons enjoy a full evening of laughs by taking in both shows at this all-ages venue that also offers wine, beer and snacks.
The Upfront Theatre
1208 Bay Street
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-733-8855 www.theupfront.com All ages, first Thursday of each month at 10:00 p.m.
Comedy Nite at Poppe’s 360 and Four Points by Sheraton
“For stand-up, Poppe’s is the big one. Jay Benton brings in great acts from all over the country,” notes local comedian, producer and filmmaker Sue Mattson.
“Once a month at Comedy Nite, local folks can see professional comedians who’ve been honing their craft for decades,” adds Bristow. “The larger events are held in the Grand Ballroom.”
Voted by The Best of the Northwest for Best Cocktails and Best Bar and Lounge, Comedy Nite is held often on Friday or Saturday nights and includes a variable cover charge from $10 to $25. You can arrive early to get a good seat and enjoy appetizers or dinner there too if you like.
Local producer, filmmaker, and comedian Sue Mattson’s unique sense of humor engages audiences. Photo credit: Lee Cox.
“The Shakedown is offering a pretty popular showcase, currently produced by Joel O’Connor. Like I did when I produced it, Joel tries to bring new talent to Bellingham, booking people that have never played here before, so there’s regularly new performances along with our favorite locals,” explains Mattson. Affordable drink prices and a cover around $6 makes this place a favorite with local comedians and patrons alike.
You can make an evening of it by arriving early to play on the 18 pinball tables next door at the Racket Bar and Pinball Lounge.
Cosmic Comedy is a newer, free show hosted by local stand-up comedians inside the comic book store Cosmic Comics. If you secretly idolize a superhero, this may be the perfect venue for you. “I’m extremely happy Cosmic Comics is working out. I think that room has a lot of potential,” notes local comedian, Lee Cox.
Local actor, writer, producer, and comedian Glen Nelson Bristow performs at most of Bellinghams stand-up venues. Photo credit: Sue Mattson.
Cosmic Comics — Disc Golf, Magic, and Games
1905 Cornwall Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-34-8058 www.cosmiccomicsonline.com All ages on some Sundays
These venues support a historic art form, bring big-name comedians to town, and help talented locals develop their best material, all to bring belly laughs to their patrons. Take advantage and get out in Bellingham for some irreverent, and affordable, stand-up soon.
Bellingham attorney Emily Rose Mowrey of Limitless Law PLLC is making it easier for local businesses to seek legal advice. Photo courtesy: Emily Rose Mowrey.
Bellingham attorney Emily Rose Mowrey of Limitless Law PLLC is debuting a new online concierge legal service called Business Bouncer.
Mowrey developed the Business Bouncer concept after she noticed that many of her business clients wanted regular legal help with affordable, predictable costs.
“Instead of waiting for a small legal issue to become a costly emergency, I want my clients to feel comfortable coming to me before things get out of hand,” Mowrey said.
Business Bouncer offers subscription packages with unlimited phone and email contact with the member’s own business attorney, to address legal questions at a flat monthly rate. Additional services, including document drafting and review and representation in court cases, are also available with Business Bouncer’s service plans.
“Business owners appreciate knowing they can budget for their legal needs, instead of getting a large, unexpected bill,” Mowrey said.
Business Bouncer is currently available to businesses throughout Washington state.
In addition to business law, Limitless Law PLLC also assists clients with bankruptcy and debt settlement, estate planning, LGBT/Polyamory law, probate and real estate law.
Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) is seeking input on its proposed plan for new service.
There are three main ways people can provide input: by attending a community meeting, by reviewing the plan and taking an online survey, or by reviewing the plan and contacting WTA via phone or email.
WTA is hosting four drop-in community meetings:
Wednesday, July 6, 2016, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Bellingham Central Library’s Lecture Room.
Thursday, July 7, 2016, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lynden Public Library Meeting Room.
Monday, July 11, 2016, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Deming Public Library Meeting Room.
Wednesday, July 13, 2016, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Ferndale Senior Center.
Those who would like to review the plan, then comment via phone or email, can pick up printed information at WTA’s Bellingham Station in downtown Bellingham, or at Cordata Station, near Whatcom Community College. They can also download a pdf at http://bit.ly/28Qu0J9. They can provide input by calling 360-715-4500 or by emailing comment@ridewta.com.
WTA developed the proposed plan with significant community input, as part of a strategic planning process. Community input has come through multiple sources, including interviews with community leaders, surveys, stakeholder committees, presentations to community groups, targeted outreach and an online “Planning Game.”
Highlights of the proposed plan include earlier Saturday service on most routes, later evening service on several rural routes, and new Sunday service to Lynden, Ferndale, Lummi Nation/Gooseberry Point and Sudden Valley. The plan also proposes reducing service to some areas.
Input on the proposed plan must be received by July 15, 2016.
Sustainable Connections energy program manager doesn’t just talk the talk, he walks the walk. Jeff Aslan and his wife Annie recently received a Net-Zero Energy Certification for their home from the International Living Future Institute — the only home in Whatcom County to have done so, and they are one of only 33 certified in the world!
Jeff and his wife bought their Birchwood home two years ago, it was originally designed by Greg Robinson and built by Cascade Joinery for the Kulshan Community Land Trust. It came with energy efficient construction and a solar system installed by Ecotech Solar. With the onset of the Bellingham Energy Prize, Jeff wanted to do even more to help reduce Bellingham’s overall energy usage. His goal was to supply 100% of the home’s electricity use with solar over the course of one year and receive a Net Zero Energy Certification from International Living Future Institute. The idea of net-zero buildings is to allow for a future free of fossil fuels with distributed energy systems and net-zero buildings — buildings that generate at least as much energy as they consume over the course of a year.
Jeff and Annie Aslan made substantial changes to their home to make it energy efficient. Photo courtesy: Sustainable Connections.
Getting to net zero by adding more solar panels wasn’t an option for Jeff and Annie as the roof was already full. Instead, they ended up making substantial changes both to the efficiency of the building and to their lifestyle. They started with an assessment from the Community Energy Challenge, giving them some good ideas on how to reduce their usage, then started with small projects such as changing out all the lighting to LED and installing thermal blinds on all of the windows. They then tackled bigger projects like putting in a heat recovery ventilator, a heat pump water heater, and topping off attic insulation. All of these projects had additional benefits like making their house more comfortable, and giving them better air quality and lighting.
They finished their first year in 2015, and as a result of the retrofits and change in personal energy use habits, they ended up producing twice as much energy as they consumed! It was so much energy savings they actually put more energy back into the grid than they consumed a total of nine months out of the year. The stellar energy performance continued into the second year, which confirmed consistent and permanent energy saving for the foreseeable future.
Jeff and Annie’s house is one of thirty-three in the world to recieve this certification. Photo credit: David Johnston.
“We realized we had a lot of control over our spending habits – ultimately how efficient our home is and how conservative we were with energy usage. In terms of our lifestyle, there were certain things that we weren’t willing to compromise on to get to net zero. We wanted to have a warm house in winter, take normal length showers, and still cook all the time. However, we did stay very mindful about our usage – checking our energy usage daily and looking for ways to save. For example, we put all of our electronics on switchable strips and turned them off overnight and while away, and checked the weather forecast before doing laundry so we could dry our clothes outside” says Jeff. “To me, there is no better way to make homeownership affordable than having a home that doesn’t have a power bill.”
This project was accomplished with the help of funding from the Kulshan Community Land Trust, Greg Robinson, EcoTech, Cascade Joinery, and Sustainable Connections. To see more about 2938 Madrona St and other Net-Zero Energy certified buildings visit living-future.org/net-zero/certified-projects.
Editor’s Note: You have reached the 2016 4th of July article. The 2017 version will be available shortly.
Summer is officially here, and just like every year, the season will start with a dazzling display of entertainment, food and fireworks as people gather to celebrate our country’s independence.
From the splendor of fireworks bursting overhead to day-long festivals of music, food, drinks and more, there are a variety of ways to celebrate the 4th of July in Whatcom County.
Whether you want to ring in Independence Day with a literal bang or prefer to gather in the daylight hours over good food with your friends and neighbors, there’s a 4th of July activity with your name on it. And remember — the 4th of July falls on a Monday this year, so plan your partying accordingly.
The annual Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration attracts crowds near and far. Photo courtesy: Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration/Facebook.
Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration
Every year, families from across Bellingham and Whatcom County flock to Zuanich Point Park to celebrate America’s independence day. Now in its nearly 20th years, the Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration is a Bellingham tradition.
In addition to playing host to Whatcom County’s biggest 4th of July fireworks display, the Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration also offers a variety of daytime activities. The fun starts at 11:00 a.m. with the annual Hoop It Up Basketball Tournament, craft and food vendors, and a variety of Olde Time Games.
Once the afternoon rolls around, the 21+ crowd can quench their thirst at the Squalicum Boathouse Beer Garden. Thirsty patrons can sip suds from 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Throughout the afternoon — and well into the evening — attendees can also enjoy live entertainment (2:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.) from the Bellingham Youth Jazz Band, the Chris Eger Band, and the SpaceBand. The music only stops once the anticipated fireworks show starts at 10:30 p.m.
The fireworks show over Sualicum Harbor starts promptly at 10:30 p.m. Photo courtesy: Port of Bellingham/Facebook.
Parking for this family-friendly event is available, but limited. Attendees are encouraged to walk, bike or hop aboard one of the free passenger shuttles that will be running from 1:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Shuttle pick-up will be at Bellingham Technical College with drop off at the TD Curran parking lot inside Squalicum Harbor.
For more information about this show stopping event, visit Haggen’s website.
Blaine Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration
Like the Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration, Blaine’s Old Fashioned 4th has been delighting visitors for more than a decade. Organized by the Blaine Chamber of Commerce, this annual tradition kicks off bright and early with an 8:00 a.m. Pancake Breakfast at the Blaine Community Center and the Show-N-Shine Car Show in downtown.
From 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., families can enjoy perusing the many arts and craft booths situated at Peace Portal Drive and H Street. At noon, however, event-goers will want to divert their attention from handcrafted wares to the big 4th of July parade as it makes its way down Peace Portal Drive.
Later in the afternoon, after a day enjoying live music, arts and crafts, and even catching a ride on the historic Plover Ferry (ride available from noon – 8:00 p.m.), event-goers can fill up on tasty fare at Semiahmoo Resort’s Backyard Barbecue (4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m).
Enjoy day-long festivities throughout Blaine during the city’s annual Old Fashioned 4th. Photo courtesy: Blaine Chamber of Commerce/Facebook.
With so much to see and do, it’s easy to get distracted. Just make sure you’re planted firmly in a grass seat or lawn chair at Blaine Marine Park by 10:15 p.m. for the big fireworks finale.
If you want to watch the fireworks but don’t feel like cozying up with a crowd, you’re in luck. San Juan Cruises is offering an intimate way to watch the sparks fly this year.
For $89 per person, cruise-goers can snag a front row seat for this year’s fireworks show over Squalicum Harbor. Tickets include a crab dinner and pre-fireworks cruise around Bellingham and Chuckanut Bays.
Get a front row seat for this year’s fireworks show over Squalicum Harbor by booking a ticket for San Juan Cruises’ 4th of July Cruise. Photo courtesy: San Juan Cruises/Facebook.
The deluxe 100′ tour vessel offers guests everything they need to enjoy the 4th of July on the water, including indoor and outdoor seating on two levels, an on-board snack bar, and a full beverage bar stocked with a variety of Northwest beers, wines and cocktails.
This cruise is perfect for a romantic date night or quiet family outing away from the crowds.
While, statistically, mobile users are more in a browsing mood when they thumb through stories — often still preferring to wait to make purchases when in front of their desktops — mobile users do use their phones to research products, compare prices, locate a store, read reviews, or get community recommendations.
This means getting your business in front of viewers while they’re in a browsing — and deciding — state of mind is a key component of an overall marketing strategy.
Mobile users also frequently use their phones to browse social media. Having your business promoted in a user’s Facebook newsfeed through featured business articles and key logo placements on WhatcomTalk places your brand in front of viewers and gives your business an advantage.
This is why WhatcomTalk is optimized for the mobile browsing experience as part of its Community Social Network platform.
Sixty-seven percent of WhatcomTalk viewers access the site from mobile devices, compared to 38% on desktops.
Place your brand in front of viewers while they are browsing, deciding and reviewing recommendations from friends and community members. Advertise with WhatcomTalk to reach your target market, grow your brand, and measure results.
WhatcomTalk is a digital media company sharing positive stories about people, places and businesses in Whatcom County. WhatcomTalk offers content marketing and online options to advertise across our community social network in Bellingham, Lynden, Ferndale and beyond. Advertise with WhatcomTalk to reach your target market, grow your brand, and measure results.
Content marketing is another way WhatcomTalk helps tell a customer's story. Photo courtesy: Amy Blackwood.
Half Price Books in Bellevue was a hopping place back in the late 90’s. In the middle of a store packed with both new and well-loved books, vinyl record sleeves hanging from the ceiling, and the crash of dishes echoing from the adjacent food court sat the used book counter where a man stood watch over the store. He would often step down from behind the counter and visit with shoppers, recalling details from previous conversations with ease, making connections with all kinds of people.
That bookstore suffered quite a loss when that man turned in his Half Price Books nametag for a Village Books badge 19 years ago. That man is Robert Gruen.
Texas-born Robert is full of interesting stories about his early days. Before joining the staff at Village Books — and prior to his gig with Half Price Books — he worked at the Strand in New York City. Before that, he was a chef at one of the first natural food restaurants in Soho.
Robert Gruen poses with a copy of ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’ during Banned Book Week. Photo courtesy: Amy Blackwood.
During his restaurant days, Robert met some colorful characters. He remembers catering dinners for Yoko Ono and the founder of Shakespeare in the Park, Joseph Papp. During this time he would also enjoy regular breakfasts with Chris Frantz, the drummer for the Talking Heads. When Robert ate with Frantz, he says he had no idea who Frantz was. “I thought he was in some sort of garage band,” Robert says, laughing.
Life has taken Robert all around the country — and world, from Texas to New York all the way to the Pacific Northwest where, for nearly two decades, he’s been a familiar face at Fairhaven’s beloved Village Books. But with a fast-approaching retirement on the horizon, he’s preparing for the next chapter of his life.
At Village Books, Robert has worn many hats. He’s sold books, bought books, and has organized ticket sales for non-profits at the bookstore. A number of years ago, Village Books also operated a bookmobile, and Robert was, on occasion, responsible for a few of the vehicle’s trips into the county.
Reflecting on Robert’s nearly 20 years with the bookstore, Village Books Co-Owner Chuck Robinson shared a memory of Robert and the bookmobile. Robert was returning from a trip out to Everson, coming up to where Sunset intersects with James, when the brakes on the bookmobile gave out. When Robert informed Chuck of the malfunction, Chuck was understandably concerned for Robert’s safety and inquired where Robert had to park the bookmobile.
“Up a block, at the laundromat on 12th,” was Robert’s reply.
Robert used the emergency brake and manual transmission to slow the vehicle, and the bookmobile’s $12,000 worth of inventory sat in the parking lot for the weekend.
“I knew Chuck would tell you that story,” Robert said when I spoke with him days later.
Though, like a bookstore, his life is an arsenal of interesting stories, Robert generally likes to keep to himself.
When I asked Robert’s colleagues at Village Books if they would like to share a story about Robert, all of them smiled and laughed quietly.
Joan has worked with Robert for the majority of his tenure at the store. When I sat with her at her desk and pressed a bit for an anecdote about Robert, she smiled and looked out over the bookshelves. “He’s a bit uncomfortable with all the attention surrounding his retirement,” she shared.
But, as easy to talk to and beloved as he is, it’s hard to avoid the attention.
One of Robert’s customers enjoyed his company so much that she invited him to accompany her on a three-month cruise through South America. Robert took a sabbatical from the bookstore to make that international journey, and then again when he took another trip with the same woman a few years later to Asia and the coast of Africa. Vacation was saved up annually and spent for skiing time.
Robert will step out of his role at Village Books later this month. His last day in the store is June 29.
Upon his retirement, Robert plans to do more traveling, mentioning Sicily and the south of France as desired destinations.
The Village Books staff is sad to say farewell to their longtime co-worker and friend, Robert Gruen. Photo courtesy: Village Books.
Want to learn more about Robert? The staff at Village Books recommends reading the following books to get a glimpse into the life of their fascinating employee, co-worker and friend.
“Where’s Waldo: Travel Edition” — Chuck
Chuck laughed and explained Robert sometimes wanders away from his station in his zeal to connect with customers, often making it hard to find him. (Note: Robert was responsible for a number of years for hiding Waldo and harbors a dislike for the striped-shirted.)
Anything by Tom Robbins — Sam
“Robert is a multi-faceted, multi-layered man,” says co-worker Sam. “His recommendations shelf showcases a lot of very complex, esoteric novels about people in situations you would believe impossible.” Sam says any of Tom Robbins’ books would remind him of Robert
“Poetry as Insurgent Art” — Joan
“He likes more literary and academic titles,” co-worker Joan explains. “Beat poets are definitely right up his alley.”
“What to Listen for in Music” — Kelly E
“Robert and I have one thing in common I don’t have with anyone else around here, and that’s we are both classical pianists. I can communicate about music with him unlike anyone else.”
If a customer wants to put their brand in front of active men and women living in Whatcom County, we can place their logo on an article about local trails to hike. Photo credit: Brandon Fralic.
Have you ever slept under the stars — miles from your car and the nearest road — with nothing but the contents of your backpack? Car camping is an excellent way to recreate in the great outdoors. But to really get away from it all, you may just have to spend a night (or a few) on the trail.
Backpacking season begins with the arrival of summer in Whatcom County. While a few of our backpacking destinations are accessible year-round, the most extraordinary high country campsites are only available between July and October. Early summer is the perfect time to start planning. Whether it’s your first backpacking trip or your 51st, we have ideas for beginners and experienced backpackers alike.
Tent pads and Mount Baker views are included in your camping experience at Baker Lake. Photo credit: Brandon Fralic.
Always be prepared when hiking and backpacking. For starters, bring the Ten Essentials and practice Leave No Trace ethics. Only camp in designated sites, and respect all rules related to campfires, food storage, etc. Check out the Washington Trails Association (WTA) website for a wealth of information on backpacking in our state. And always remember before you leave to tell a friend or family member when and where you’re going.
Ready to hit the trail? Here are six backpacking destinations in Whatcom County.
A great introduction to backpacking, Lily and Lizard are two small lakes atop Blanchard Mountain in the Chuckanuts. Their close proximity to Oyster Dome and North Butte — coupled with year-round accessibility — makes them quite attractive for an overnight stay. It’s about 8 miles round trip, but only gains 1,000 feet. You’ll reach Lily Lake first, where a horse camp and backpacker’s camp await. Or continue along the Lily-Lizard connector trail to stay at Lizard Lake. If you’re looking for solitude, Lizard is generally the quieter of the two destinations.
Chuckanut Mountain’s Pine and Cedar Lakes are accessible by a relatively short but steep trail. From the Pine and Cedar Lakes trailhead parking lot, it’s about 5 miles roundtrip. You’ll tackle the steepest section right at the beginning, before the trail levels out at a high point of 1,600 feet. There are a few campsites at Cedar Lake, and a trail circumnavigating it. Pine Lake offers a scenic little peninsula campsite, accessible by a narrow boardwalk. If you can make it up on a weeknight or during the cooler months, you’ll likely have it all to yourself.
At the end of Mount Baker Highway, Chain Lakes Loop is one of the most spectacular hiking and backpacking destinations in Whatcom County. It’s also one of the most popular. This non-repeating loop leads through talus fields and heather meadows, along lakeshores and trickling streams to mountain vistas of Baker and Shuksan. With all that in just 7 trail miles, Chain Lakes is packed on summer weekends. Plan accordingly! Lakeview campsites are available at Mazama and Hayes Lakes.
A hiker looks up at Winchester Mountain from the trailhead at Twin Lakes. Photo credit: Brandon Fralic.
Winchester Mountain offers a different kind of backpacking experience. Here, you can stay in a former fire lookout. Getting to the trailhead is half the battle, as Twin Lakes road is subject to washouts and often in a state of disrepair. Take a high clearance vehicle, or hike up the road from the Yellow Aster Butte trailhead. If your vehicle can make it up the single-lane road, Twin Lakes is open to car camping (check WTA for current road conditions). You’ll find several nice campsites complete with picnic tables and tent pads at the lakes. From here it’s just a 3.4-mile roundtrip hike up Winchester Mountain to the 1930’s lookout. Available on a first come, first served basis, this lookout offers incredible views of nearby mounts Baker, Shuksan, Larrabee and more.
Another historic 1930’s fire lookout awaits at Park Butte. This trail offers the most variety for overnighters, from car camping at the trailhead to backcountry sites and the lookout itself. At 7.5 miles round trip, Park Butte can be done in a day but is far more enjoyable as a backpacking trip. The trail crosses cool glacier-fed creeks. It meanders through wildflower meadows and climbs to 5,450 feet, with in-your-face Mount Baker views. Consider a side trip up Railroad Grade to get even closer to the mountain’s Easton Glacier. But be careful — the aptly named Railroad Grade trail becomes a steep climber’s path, not meant for casual hiking.
Experience in-your-face views of Mount Baker from the historic 1930’s fire lookout at Park Butte. Photo credit: Brandon Fralic.
Take the rolling Baker Lake trail year-round to camp alongside manmade Baker Lake. This 14-mile (one way) trail offers several places to camp, with the first option at just 2 miles from the trailhead. Elevation gain varies depending on your destination. Stay overnight at Anderson Point (2 miles) or Maple Grove (4 miles). Both camps offer fire pits, backcountry toilets, tent pads, bear-proof food storage boxes, and peek-a-boo views of Mount Baker across the lake. Like Lily and Lizard or Pine and Cedar, Baker Lake is a great place to break into backpacking.
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