Hot Drinks For Cold Whatcom Weather

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hot drinks bellingham — The egg nog latte from Pure Bliss Desserts is perfect for the season.

By Stacee Sledge

Earlier this year, WhatcomTalk supplied you with a lengthy list of spectacular spots to grab a cup o’ Joe in Bellingham. Those coffee shops – and many more – are happy to bring the buzz when you’re in need of a java jolt. They also bring the warmth, and right now in Whatcom County, that’s a must-have.

Now that colder weather has descended, sometimes one simply wants a hot drink (with or without alcohol) to warm one’s hands – and spirit. We’ve got you covered there, too. Following are just a few examples of delicious, steamy sips that can be had in Bellingham during the colder months.

Temple Bar

Downtown Bellingham’s Temple Bar brings you its Apple Ginger Toddy, a warm concoction of Cloud Mountain Farm cider, bourbon, ginger, and spice. Talk about everything nice.

“We wait for this every year,” says Temple Bar owner Chelsea Farmer.

Why? Because the Everson-based Cloud Mountain only produces its small-batch cider for a few months in the fall.

“It’s the best in our region,” says Farmer. “We love this cider for its deep, unfiltered apple flavor that holds up to a healthy pour of bourbon and the bite of fresh ginger.”

A few drops of Temple Bar’s homemade pimento dram – an allspice liqueur – takes the warmth of this drink a step further.

“We love it and can’t get enough before it’s gone,” Farmer continues. (And once the cider stops, the toddy does, too).

“An extra special year is when the cider production overlaps with the first snow day,” she says. “Fingers crossed!”

Pure Bliss Desserts

Frosty weather simply screams for eggnog, and Pure Bliss Desserts can do you one even better than that – combining the seasonal favorite with fantastic coffee.

“It is officially the best thing ever,” says Pure Bliss owner Andi Vann, with a laugh. “Every afternoon, I treat myself to an eggnog latte.”

Using Fresh Breeze Organic Eggnog from Lynden (“Because it’s the best!” says Andi) and organic, fair trade Moka Joe espresso, Pure Bliss blends two fantastic things into one cozy, cold-busting delight.

Pure Bliss also offers eggnog americanos and Lond Fogs through December. Pair one of them with their eggnog cheesecake, because you simply can’t have too much eggnog this time of year.

“Let’s just embrace this season for all that it is,” Vann says. “Delicious!”

The Redlight

Bubbling away in a crockpot behind the bar, the Autumn Sweater is the Redlight’s answer to warming up your insides on those chilly days. Whiskey and mulled cider – how could you possibly go wrong? Even better: It’s named after a Yo La Tengo song.

Fresh-pressed cider and hard cider are mixed with mulling spices and whiskey, and then served piping hot.

“It makes the place smell amazing,” says Redlight bartender Dan Vee. “I had one last night and it warmed the cockles.”

Uisce Irish Pub

When Uisce Irish Pub owner Molly McGarry was recently under the weather, she knew the secret to pushing through and staying productive – and it arrived in a tall Uisce glass, garnished with a slice of citrus and clove.

“I had a hot toddy and it helped,” McGarry says. “It always does.”

When you have the sniffles, have spent a day up on the mountain, or simply feel chilled and want to warm yourself from the inside out, the hot toddy is always McGarry’s recommended warm-up.

“I almost think it would fit under general ‘health tonic’ depending on who you asked,” she says with a laugh.

Hammerhead Coffee Roasters Hot Drink Round-Up

Hammerhead Coffee Roasters co-owner Mary Burwell knows hot drinks (especially the caffeinated kind).

She also knows Bellingham inside and out. Talk with nearly any small business owner around town and there’s a good chance they’re friends with Mary, a vocal supporter of the Bellingham Farmers Market, Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts, and really any business or organization that helps make Bellingham so unique.

She shared with us her list of favorite cold-weather sips – while enjoying a mug of Hammerhead’s new Holiday Brew, naturally:

Hot (or cold) BelleWood Acres Cider, offered by Supreme Bean in the fall and winter.
Mount Bakery makes a wonderful bittersweet mocha called a ‘Moliere,’ with Belgian chocolate ganache. So Good!
We enjoy lattes every Saturday from the Bellingham Farmers Market’s Festival Espresso. They use our Hammerhead Stout espresso with (steamed) local, organic Breckenridge Farm milk.
I also like Holy Basil tea, also found at the Bellingham Farmers Market.
The Black Drop makes a mean hot chocolate.
Sara Galactica is our favorite private bartender.
Post-holiday rush, we’ll also be hanging out at Aslan from time to time, enjoying their food and drinks, including our drip coffee

Start Sipping

Feeling a bit warmer already? Fantastic! Now pull on a coat and head out into the brisk air – ever so briefly – before ducking into any of these lovely establishments for some stave-off-the-cold deliciousness.

Holiday Happenings: WhatcomTalk’s List of Festivals, Parades, Lighting Ceremonies, One-of-a-Kind Gift Buying and More

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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HO-HO-HOW busy are we all at this time of the year?

If you’re like me, it’s cheery chaos left and right, balancing everyday life with festive activities, such as baking for friends and loved ones, driving around with the little ones to see holiday lights, visiting Santa, shopping and wrapping gifts, decorating the house, and on and on. And on.

But here’s the thing: I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love the non-stop merriment; I just like to have a plan so I know what’s happening each day of the advent calendar.

To that end, WhatcomTalk has compiled all the holiday happenings around Bellingham and Whatcom County, from tree lighting ceremonies and festivals to parades and holiday shopping. Take a gander and choose the ones you’d like to include for your family’s holiday memory making.

Tree Lighting Ceremonies & Events

Fairhaven Tree Lighting Ceremony

Part of the 2014 Fairhaven Holiday Festival is the annual lighting of the trees at the Fairhaven Village Green on Friday, November 28 at 5:00 p.m. Bellingham High School’s Showstoppers will be on hand to provide entertainment.

Downtown Bellingham Tree Lighting Ceremony

Join the crowd gathered at Depot Market Square on Friday, December 5 at 5:30 p.m. for the downtown Bellingham tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy live music and refreshments, and take a stroll through a pop-up holiday market from the Bellingham Farmers Market.

Downtown Ferndale Holiday Tree Lighting

Downtown Ferndale kicks off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony in Centennial Park on Friday, December 5 at 5:00 p.m. Complimentary cookies and cocoa will be available, and Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by fire truck and pass out candy canes.

Blaine’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Harbor Lights

Blaine’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony is part of its larger Holiday Harbor Lights festivities. Over three days – December 5, 6 and 7 – folks can enjoy music, refreshments, caroling, and much more while ambling along downtown Blaine.

The tree lighting takes place on Saturday, December 6 at 4:30 p.m. at H Street and Peace Portal Drive. Santa arrives via fire truck at 5:00 p.m. and will visit with young ones at the Blaine Pizza Factory at 738 Peace Portal Drive. Free horse-drawn trolley rides are available between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Revelers can then take in the glittering wonder of decorated boats sailing through Drayton Harbor between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Holiday Tree Lighting at Hotel Bellwether

The community is invited to visit the Hotel Bellwether on Saturday, December 6 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to celebrate the holiday season waterside and vote for their favorite holiday tree. Decorated by local businesses, each tree can be voted upon as the best by anyone making a monetary or food donation to the Opportunity Council’s Dorothy Place. Those casting ballots also have a chance to win a one-night stay in the hotel’s stunning lighthouse suite. 1 Bellwether Way in Bellingham.

Deck the [Old City] Hall with Whatcom Museum

Take in two floors of festively decorated trees and enter to win a Greenhouse-designed tree of your very own at Deck the [Old City] Hall at Whatcom Museum on Saturday, November 29 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Greenhouse tree winner can choose from gift cards from local retailers or one of two metal sculptures by local artist Herb Ershig. 121 Prospect Street in downtown Bellingham.

Popular Light Displays

Whatcom Wonderland 2014

Whatcom Wonderland returns to the Bellingham home of Randi Punteney and Kauleen Shelton at 2334 Huron Street, offering a spectacular display of over 3,000 LED lights that will elicit oohs and aahs from the back seat. Tune your vehicle’s radio to 101.9FM and visit from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to see a spectacular synchronized show.

“I became fascinated by animated Christmas lights after seeing some videos online of other people’s houses,” says Randi.

The couple started out slowly in 2007, while living in Skagit County, and have grown the display year after year.

“We love putting on the show, as it brings so many people joy and happiness,” Randi says. “Seeing smiles on the their faces, especially the kids, makes it all worth it. Hopefully our neighbors don’t mind too much.”

James Street Estates

My family has been driving through James Street Estates at the holidays for more than a decade. Turn into the neighborhood of neatly groomed manufactured homes, turn off your car lights, and glide slowly through a glorious display of Christmas lights. 3802 James Street in Bellingham.

Festivals, Annual Polar Bear Events

Fairhaven Holiday Festival

This kick-off to this year’s Fairhaven Holiday Festival brings Santa and Mrs. Claus to the gazebo on the corner of Harris Avenue and 10th Street from 3:00 p.m. to 4:50 p.m. on Friday, November 28, where they will greet visitors and spread holiday cheer. The festival also includes the annual Lighting of the Trees at the Fairhaven Village Green, Fairhaven Holiday Art Walk, free carriage rides, and more.

Holiday Carriage Rides In Fairhaven

Cramer Classics will again offer holiday carriage rides throughout historic Fairhaven during this jolly season. Head to the front door of the Fairhaven Village Inn between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. every Saturday between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve, and you’ll soon be making your way through Fairhaven’s charming streets just as they did so long ago.

Holiday Port Festival and Gingerbread House Contest

It’s the annual event gingerbread fans look forward to, as the Holiday Port Festival brings its gingerbread house contest to the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, along with local bands, choral groups, dancers, children’s art activities, Santa and his Missus, and much more.

Enjoy complimentary cookies and hot apple cider, and then cast your vote for favorite gingerbread house in a variety of categories. Friday, December 5 from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visit the Port of Bellingham’s website for specific times for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, fire truck rides, and horse-drawn wagon rides.

This year’s event also invites folks to tour the Alaska Ferry on Friday, December 5 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. You must have a photo ID to come board.

Olde Fashioned Christmas at Ferndale’s Pioneer Park

Experience the Christmas season as it was back in the pioneer days, as Ferndale Heritage Society members dress up in pioneer costumes and lead visitors back in time through a dozen decorated log homes. There will be hands-on crafts for children, old-fashioned games, music and a working general store where visitors can buy pioneer-style Christmas gifts. Families can also take their own photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Tickets are $4 for adults and $3 for children. 2004 Cherry Street in Ferndale. Friday, December 5 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Saturday, December 6 from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sunday, December 7 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Lynden Lighted Christmas Parade

Lynden’s 24th annual holiday celebration kicks off at 6:00 pm on Saturday, December 6 with the always popular Lighted Christmas Parade, a string of carolers and a dazzling display of lighted trucks, cars, floats, wagons, farm equipment, and more. The procession starts at Fairway Center and travels along Front Street through charming downtown Lynden.

Everson-Nooksack Winter Festival

Bring the whole family and join in the fun at the Everson-Nooksack Winter Festival on Friday, December 5 at 6:00 p.m. at Everson City Park. Santa and his elves will be there, along with free hot cocoa. The first 150 children to visit with Santa receive a goodie bag. 111 West Main Street in Everson.

Annual Ring of Fire and Hope, Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge

Birch Bay celebrates the transition of the New Year with two unique events: the Annual Ring of Fire and Hope, after dark on December 31, and the annual Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge on January 1, both sponsored by the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce.

The Ring of Fire and Hope brings together hundreds of participants along the shores of Birch Bay with lighted flares, turning the bay into a ring of fire, signifying hope for the coming year.

At noon the next day, hundreds of Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge participants leap into the bay’s frigid waters (and quickly leap back out) to welcome 2015 refreshed – and, no doubt, shivering. The event draws more than a thousand on-shore onlookers and cheerleaders. Prizes are given for best individual costume and best group costume.

Lake Padden Polar Dip & Resolution Run

Another option for an icy New Year’s Day dunking takes place each year at Lake Padden, with the Padden Polar Dip – preceded by the Resolution Run-Walk around the lake’s 2.6-mile loop. The run/walk begins at 11:00 a.m, followed at 12:00 p.m. by the dip. Those crazy enough to jump in can warm up afterward with coffee and hot cocoa.

Holiday Shopping

35th Annual Holiday Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts

The season’s longest-running holiday marketplace, Allied Arts’ Holiday Festival of the Arts is celebrating 35 years of bringing the work of local artisans and craftspeople to holiday shoppers. This year’s festival brings more than 100 vendors together to offer reasonably priced handmade products, which range from jewelry and repurposed art to paintings and specialty foods – and more. Each weekend is chock full of activities for all ages, including live music, artist demonstrations, and fun art projects.

The festival runs through December 24, open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with bonus days on Monday and Tuesday, December 22 and 23. Closed: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thanksgiving, and at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 24. 4145 Meridian Street in Bellingham.

Bellingham Farmers Market Pop Up Gift Market
In a collaboration with the Downtown Bellingham Partnership and the City of Bellingham, the Bellingham Farmers Market will offer a special Pop-Up Gift Market on Friday, December 5 at the Depot Market Square from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in conjunction with the Tree Lighting and Downtown Art Walk. More than 30 vendors will bring an assortment of wonderful, local gift options shoppers simply won’t find anywhere else.

Downtown Bellingham Art Walk

Art Walk takes place every first Friday of the month, but the Holiday Art Walk only happens once a year! Hit the downtown streets on Friday, December 5, right after the Tree Lighting Ceremony at Depot Market Square, and discover art, crafts, and much more – perfect for holiday gift-buying – from a slew of talented local and regional artists.

Fairhaven Holiday Art Walk

Stroll historic Fairhaven and shop its charming boutiques, bookstores, galleries, and more. Some 20 locations will have special exhibits and unique events. Friday, November 28 and Saturday, November 29 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Blaine Holiday Art and Gift Market

Sponsored by the Blaine Harbor Art Gallery, the Blaine Holiday Art and Gift Market takes place Saturday, December 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Goff Building at 674 Peace Portal Drive in Blaine.

Blaine Homemade Arts and Crafts Christmas Bazaar

Peruse homemade gifts at the Blaine Community Center on Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during the Homemade Arts & Crafts Christmas Bazaar. 763 G Street in Blaine.

Pacific Arts Holiday Market

This year marks the 18th annual Pacific Arts Market in Bellingham, taking place over three weekends in December. Find gifts created by dozens of well-known local artists and crafters: from jewelry and fine art to home décor and specialty foods. There will also be live music and artist demonstrations. December 5 through 7, 12 through 14 and 19 through 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Sunset Square, 1125 East Sunset Square Drive, Suite 115, in Bellingham.

The Gift of Art: Jansen Art Center Holiday Fair

Jansen Art Center in Lynden presents its Holiday Fair on Saturday, December 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., showcasing unique handmade jewelry, pottery, and more – all created by local artists. There will also be a variety of hands-on art activities, so bring the kids along, too. 321 Front Street in Lynden.

Make.Shift’s 4th annual Make Sale

From hand-forged kitchen knives to handcrafted jewelry, there’s something uniquely awesome for everyone on your list at the Make.Shift Make Sale on Saturday, December 13 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bringing together more than 20 local artists and crafters, this one-day craft-fair will showcase the work of Sown Designs, Schwarzenncrahft stihlworks, NOMAD, Red Boots Design, Fringe & Feather, Normiehead, Rubycat Designs, Jess Flegel Handmade, Lyanna’s PLTs, Localmotive Jewelry Creations, Osteal Jewelry, Bomber Audio, You Did A Thing, and many more. Delicious soups, hot cider, adult holiday beverages, and amazing acapella holiday singers will add to the festive feel. 306 Flora Street in downtown Bellingham.

Shop Small Saturday

The Downtown Bellingham Partnership helps mark Small Business Saturday with its own spin on the event, Shop Small Saturday. Visit downtown on Saturday, November 29, and support small businesses while enjoying a wide array of goodies amid festively decorated streets, sidewalks, and shops.

Shop Dine Celebrate in Downtown Bellingham

The Downtown Bellingham Partnership also invites folks to Shop Dine Celebrate all over downtown on December 12, 13 and 14. Shorten your to-do list by hitting downtown stores for unique gifts, and then take a break to grab a bite at any of downtown’s delicious eateries. Take a picture of check-in using the hashtag #bhamSDC, and you’ll be entered into a raffle. Carolers, buskers, and other live entertainment will add to the festive feel of downtown on all three days.

Bellingham Public Library and Local Retailers Demonstrate Tech Gifts

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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Submitted by Bellingham Public Library

Thinking of giving or getting a new tablet or eReader? Stop by the Bellingham Public Library from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, for our Tech Gifts demonstration to see and try out the latest devices.

Staff from Village Books, Best Buy, TD Curran and Fred Meyer will bring and demonstrate how to use various tablets and eReaders. Brands available will include Kobo, iPad, Nook, Kindle, Samsung and more. Library staff and volunteer technology helpers also will be on hand to demonstrate how to download library eBooks, eAudiobooks, and magazines.

“This gathering is a fun way to see and try out the latest devices that will be popular in the upcoming gift season,” said public services librarian Deborah Brewer. “Participants will have a chance to talk with area retailers about individual products and compare their features and services.”

Brewer said this event also is a chance to find out more about the wide selection of free downloadable eBooks and audiobooks available through your local libraries.

The Bellingham Public Library also offers free weekly one-on-one Tech Coaching sessions to help patrons with basic computer, Internet and downloading skills using their tablets or eReaders. Check the library calendar for the Tech Coaching schedule.

“Whether you are taking a first leap into mobile technology or upgrading your existing device, we can help you make the most of your technology resources,” Brewer said.

Tech Gifts: Tablets and eReaders is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, on the main floor of the Central Library. For information, contact the Bellingham Public Library at 360-778-7323.

Keepin’ the Holidays Local: Sustainable Connections Announces Tools, Materials and Events to Help You Celebrate Locally

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Submitted by Sustainable Connections

With the holiday season here, Sustainable Connections’ begins their 12th annual holiday “buy local” campaign in Bellingham and Whatcom County, reminding shoppers to visit local and independently owned businesses for their holiday shopping.

“This is the time of year when most of us spend the bulk of our shopping budget, and it can make an immense difference for our community if the bulk of that spending is done with local, independently owned businesses,” Michelle Grandy, Think Local First program manager at Sustainable Connections says. “Keeping our money recirculating here equals jobs and diversity of choices. It also feels good to support our friends and neighbors.”

Sustainable Connections reports that for every $100 spent at a local business approximately $68 stays recirculating in our community supporting local jobs and reinvestment in our community. When $100 is spent with a non-local business, only approximately $43 stays here. They’ve compiled the following tools, materials and events to help make this holiday season a local one:

Local Online Auction: The Bid Local First! online auction runs from November 21 – December 1. Goods and services from over 70 unique local businesses in Whatcom County are up for bid including a wine and cheese party from Masquerade Wine, a 12 week yoga session from Yoga Northwest, a photograph package from Phil Rose Photography and much more.

Guide: A local guide and business directory will be available in the Bellingham Herald and Cascadia Weekly the first week of December. The guide details the benefits of buying local, gift giving ideas, a directory of local businesses, a wish list contest and energy saving tips for the holidays.

Eat Local Pledge and Photo Contest: The Eat Local First pledge asks participants to add at least one local food item to their holiday celebrations with the satisfaction of knowing it benefits local farmer’s markets and the sustainable agriculture practiced by many local farmers. A gift card to the Community Food Co-op will be awarded to one lucky winner who takes the pledge. In addition, participants are encouraged to submit a photo of a homemade holiday dish made with local ingredients to the Eat Local First Facebook page for a chance to win Market Bucks to the Bellingham Farmers Market!

“Wild At Home” New Work from Libby Chenault

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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Submitted by Honey Salon

This holiday season Honey Salon is proud to present Wild At Home, a new collection of paintings and mixed media fiber art by the crafty and coveted moth and squirrel proprietor Libby Chenault. Wild At Home blurs the lines of reality, folklore and fantasy with expertly depicted scenes and characters drawn from the edges of the wild woods. Chenault’s Wild At Home showcase debuts December 5 from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. during the Downtown Bellingham Art Walk. Opening night festivities include music mix-master PhDJ, hand-crafted warm winter beverages, sweet noshes and a seasonal surprise Honey Salon Wild At Home pop-up shop featuring ornaments, wreaths, stockings and stuffed animals ready to take home to your own wild nest.

Wild At Home is a new collection inspired by long winter nights on the edge of the woods. Paintings and mixed media fiber art tell stories of sophisticated wildness and the return home. Layers of yarn, thread and paint depict vivid scenes inspired from fairytales, classic children’s literature, natural history and interior design – weaving something new out of fragments familiar but forgotten.

Chenault is best known in and around Bellingham for her quirky stuffed animals and hats made from reclaimed materials, sold under the name moth and squirrel. Her unique sewing style includes work featuring embroidered faces full of personality, portrait pillows drawn with her sewing machine and wall hangings blending paint and her stitched line. Her seemingly effortless interpretations showcase her unique ability to blur the line between fine art and craft.

Whatcom Student Receives Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship

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Submitted by Whatcom Community College

Whatcom Community College student Wilson Kain has received a $1,000 scholarship from Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society as a 2014 Coca-Cola Leader of Promise Scholar. Kain is enrolled in Whatcom’s cybersecurity transfer degree program. When he graduates this spring, he intends to continue his education at Western Washington University to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer and information systems security.

Chosen from more than 900 applications worldwide, the 207 Coca-Cola Leader of Promise scholars receive scholarships of $1,000 each to further their associate degree studies. Independent judges evaluate the applications based on scholastic achievement, community service and leadership potential. Kain, who is also the recipient of a 2014 Technology Alliance Group of Northwest Washington scholarship, is an outstanding student at Whatcom. Technology Department Chair Corrinne Sande lauds his academic record and his communication skills. She recruited him for Whatcom’s cyberdefense team that participates in collegiate competitions. An excellent writer and communicator, Kain created the team’s incident reports. He is also the vice president of communications for WCC’s IT Pros club.

“We are extremely proud of Wilson,” says Dr. Kathi Hiyane-Brown, WCC president. “With his strong academic performance and service to campus, he is an outstanding example of the caliber of student scholars and leaders at Whatcom.”

The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program provides new Phi Theta Kappa members with financial resources to help defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are also encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in Society programs.

Small Business Saturday: Take ‘Black Friday’ Off This Year & Recapture the Charm (& Relaxation) of Shopping Locally

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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Be honest: Who doesn’t dread “Black Friday” at least a little – or, for many, a whole lot – when it rolls around each year?

Crawling out of your warm bed well before dawn, fighting the crowds, stressing about whether or not you’ll find that in-short-supply, deep-discount item – and if you do, wondering if you’ll be able to wrest it out of the hands of the others who are there for the exact same (mass-produced) item?

Bah, humbug.

What if you could put the charm back in holiday gift buying? Stroll from quaint shop to quaint shop, pop in and have a relaxed conversation with the business owner who may live right in your neighborhood or know you by name?

American Express launched Small Business Saturday in 2010 as a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Rather than only spending shopping dollars at big-box stores and e-commerce sites, shoppers are encouraged to support their local, independently owned brick-and-mortar businesses.

Bellingham Baby Company – 2925 Newmarket Street in Bellingham’s Barkley Village

Shelly and Jeremy Allen launched Bellingham Baby Company as an online store in 2005, followed by a retail space in Barkley Village in 2008.

Bellingham Baby Company works with more than 70 local moms who consign their high-quality handmade items through the store.

Think distinctive, well-made, gorgeous items, from hats and blankets to clothing and toys. Imagine a pop-up Etsy store.

“This makes it easy to find something unique, while at the same time helps support a local mom,” says Shelly Allen. “The other non-handmade items that we carry are products that were invented by moms, or come from mom-run companies.”

Allen loves owning and operating a small local business. “It’s truly a joy,” she says, “particularly because it’s in Bellingham – where the people so strongly support local.”

Buying local, Allen believes, is important not only because it helps strengthen the local economy, but also the community.

“It brings people together who may not otherwise meet,” she says. “For example, we’ve participated in several local charity events that we learned about from our customers. And some of our consignors have met each other through the store and have partnered in various projects together.”

She also points out that one-of-a-kind businesses, as opposed to big box stores, help keep our community unique and offer something special to shoppers.

“We support Small Business Saturday more than Black Friday because we’ve found that our customers really make an effort to shop the small businesses on that day,” Allen says. “We offer a special deal on our personalized bodysuits and tees that day, and hand out a coupon that customers can bring back during the holiday season to redeem.”

12th Street Shoes – 1204 Harris Avenue in Fairhaven

bellingham shoe store — 12th Street Shoes proprietress, Jody Finnegan, is celebrating her 15th year as a retail shop owner.

12th Street Shoes, the women’s-only boutique shoe store at the busy Fairhaven intersection of Harris Avenue and 12th Street, celebrated its 15th anniversary this year.

“We pride ourselves on carrying very stylish but also very comfortable shoes,” says owner Jody Finnegan. “You can have both!”

Finnegan has owned the store for 11 years, after leaving a corporate career in engineering. “It’s great to be a small business owner in Fairhaven,” she says. “The businesses here really try to support one another.”

Being a smaller, local business means Finnegan and her team can provide a level of customer service that isn’t always found at the big chain stores. “We know many of our customers by first name,” she says. “We’ll go above and beyond to help them and also try to provide products they won’t find at the big box stores. We want to keep it unique.”

It isn’t always easy, but it is always rewarding.

“There are pros and cons to being your own boss,” she says. “I think about my business 24/7. But, I always feel like there is something I can do each day, to make a difference, something I rarely felt while working for a large company.”

Finnegan also feels good about being able to make a difference in her community – from donating to auctions to putting on events that support people here in Whatcom County.

It’s something one hears over and over again when talking to business owners and shoppers – local businesses are the heart of a community. And they certainly put more money back into our community when compared to big box stores and online businesses.

“Also, the owners of these stores are your neighbors; their kids are in your kid’s classrooms,” Finnegan continue. “They are a part of your community and they give back to this community.”

Chances are you’ll be sitting next to a local business owner at the next community fundraiser – not the owner of the online business operated out of some other state. “They care about what happens here,” Finnegan says.

Ideal – 1227 Cornwall Avenue in downtown Bellingham

ideal shop bellingham — Kathleen Iwersen and Lisa Van Doren formed their shop based on a mutual passion for good, authentic design. Photo courtesy of Ideal, by Kaity Teer

Ideal is a downtown Bellingham design shop that embraces functional and unique objects for the home, self and gift-giving. It opened in 2008.

Co-owners Lisa Van Doren and Kathleen Iwersen share backgrounds in the art museum field as well as a mutual passion for good, authentic design.

“We formed Ideal trusting that there were other like minds in Bellingham who would appreciate a shop like ours,” says Iwersen. “We chose a downtown location, not only because we appreciate the surrounding iconic architecture, but it’s also our families’ neighborhood – and a nice to walk to work!”

Owning Ideal has been both a creative and challenging undertaking for the duo.

“We opened our doors during the recession – not an ‘ideal’ time,” Iwersen says. “But we’ve weathered it in big thanks to our loyal customers, established and emerging designers, and Bellingham’s ‘buy local’ community.”

Iwersen – like any local business owner you talk to – stresses the importance of shopping local.

“We believe in providing customers a memorable experience that transcends what’s typically found in a big box store,” she says. “We respect the objects we sell and our customers who take a moment out of their day to visit Ideal. The relationships formed over the years at Ideal are meaningful to us, and we look forward to that familiar face coming through our doors.”

When a shopper buys from Ideal – and other local businesses – they can feel good, knowing they’re investing back into our community and ultimately benefiting public parks, schools and services.

“Small Business Saturday is a chance for individuals to show support of independent businesses,” Iwersen says. “By shopping local – especially on November 29th – customers create a collective voice through purchases made that day on how important small businesses are to the economic health and vitality of their communities and neighborhoods.”

Downtown Bellingham Partnership – 1310 Commercial Street in downtown Bellingham

“Holiday shopping is more than what you buy – it’s the experience you have,” says Kyle Fuller of the Downtown Bellingham Partnership.

“The experience of shopping downtown is like none other, with our quirky charm, unique shops, and inviting atmosphere,” she continues. “Small Business Saturday is our chance to show the world why you should do all of your shopping – not just for the holidays – in downtown Bellingham.”

The Downtown Bellingham Partnership will host its own retail-focused event titled Shop Small Saturday on November 29th.

The idea is the same as Small Business Saturday, in its efforts to bring shoppers downtown for their holiday shopping.

Participating downtown businesses will festively decorate their storefronts and provide refreshments. The Partnership is also organizing carolers, buskers, and other street performers to line the downtown lanes and help fashion a festive feel.

Shop locally anywhere in Whatcom County on Small Business Saturday and every day of the year – from downtown Bellingham to Barkley Village, Lynden to Ferndale – and your shopping dollars will make a difference throughout our community

Nuu-Muu: Bellingham Business Creates Seriously Cute Exercise Dresses For Working Out – And For Play

By

Stacee Sledge

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Ashley Fullenwider and Christine Nienstedt met in Seattle in 1997 and became fast friends. They rode bikes together and went on biking trips – usually while donning dresses.

“That was always our thing,” says Fullenwider who, with Nienstedt, now runs Nuu-Muu – a Bellingham business crafting fun, functional and truly flattering exercise-and-everything-else dresses. “We’d always go out to dinner afterwards, or go have a beer or a glass of wine, and we wanted to be cute.”

Nuu-Muu officially kicked off in January 2008. Each dress is designed right here in Whatcom County, and then printed, sewn and finished in California.

“Christine is the brainchild,” says Fullenwider. “She got a bee in her bonnet, came up with the name, and put the website together.”

Fullenwider jokes that it was an amazing time to start a business. “Right when everything was closing!”

But Nuu-Muu’s sales have doubled every year, and with nearly 100 accounts across the United States and a couple overseas, it seems that trend will continue.

Locally, dresses can be purchased at Jazzercise Bellingham Fitness Center, Bikesport, Paper Dreams, and Blue Horizon Clothing. Nuu-Muu headquarters, at 1715 Ellis, near Bellingham High School, also opens its doors to the retail public every Friday, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

In some ways, it’s been a slow, steady growth for the company, which now has a team of nearly a dozen, with job titles that include “social butterfly,” “matchmaker,” “shipping fairy,” and “explorer.”

“There were all these people who wanted us to go big or go home,” Fullenwider says of Nuu-Muu’s early days. They purposely kept things small and relatively simple, as both have other full-time jobs they enjoy.

Fullenwider balances working for Nuu-Muu and a job with the Department of Energy’s National Labs, which keeps her busy with international travel.

“It satisfies a whole other part of who I am,” says Fullenwider, who has a degree in international affairs and speaks Russian. “Nuu-Muu is my fun job and my heart job. I love it and the people who are drawn to it.”

Nienstedt, who works as a paralegal in Boise, takes care of all Nuu-Muu website design and updates, and handles all press and promotional materials.

“She writes a lot of content for us, and she’s really good at it,” says Fullenwider. “The cute language on the website, the email blasts – that’s all Christine.”

“We both had families and we like to exercise,” Fullenwider says of their original plan for running Nuu-Muu. “We weren’t really willing to compromise on any of that. So we hired Enid, the mastermind behind a lot of the design work and the day-to-day.”

Enid Wilson, Nuu-Muu designer and production manager, handles patterns, colors, graphics, photo shoots – “Anything that involves aesthetics,” says Fullenwider. Wilson has also become an important voice for Nuu-Muu on the company’s Facebook page, where she regularly interacts with customers.

“Enid has a background in apparel, fine arts – she’s done it all,” says Fullenwider. “She came up with the pocket design in two seconds.”

A pocketed version of the classic dress, dubbed the “Ruu-Muu,” features two compartments on the lower back with a no-fuss fabric closure. It allows empty-hands exercise while keeping the wearer’s keys, wallet and phone safely close by.

Nuu-Muu releases about seven new patterns every year. Step into their center of operations and a sea of dresses in vibrant colors lining a long wall welcomes you – each packaged in biodegradable bags, ready to be shipped.

The secondary market for Nuu-Muu dresses is hot. “It’s amazing,” Fullenwider says. “You find them selling on eBay for $60, when they bought it for $70.”

An extremely supportive Nuu-Muu online community has cropped up around the company. Team Nuu-Muu is a closed Facebook group (available for any Nuu-Muu fan to easily join) where devotees connect, swap stories and sell or trade dresses.

“There were two women [on Team Nuu-Muu] who knew they were going to run the same half-marathon and got in touch,” Fullenwider explains. “The page now has a photo-finish of them holding hands, both in their Nuu-Muus. New best friends!”

Fullenwider’s favorite part about this compassionate group of Nuu-Muu followers? “It happens without us. It’s humans talking to humans, being nice to each other, building community together.”

Again and again, things have fallen into place right when they needed to at Nuu-Muu. Fullenwider thinks she knows why.

“I think it’s about not wanting too much,” she says. “Being open to the things that are happening.”

Having said that, she also stresses that Nuu-Muu pushes new employees to work hard when they want “to join the club.”

“It’s about you bringing their vision, energy, and passion,” Fullenwider says. “And if they can fit that into what we’re doing and figure out how to make themselves money, it works out.”

Aside from crafting and selling their popular products, Nuu-Muu has also launched initiatives intended to benefit their customers, fans and followers.

Offered for the first time last year, A Nuu You In 42, guided people through six weeks of intentional living.

Nuu-Muu also pulled together My Very First Bike Tour, a four-day/three-night San Juan Islands biking trip, with participants traveling from as far away as California to take part. A yoga and Nordic ski weekend in the North Cascades Methow Valley is currently in the works.

For more information about these and other experiences built around connecting and empowering community, visit Nuu-Muu’s website.

Still a work in progress, Nuu-Muu is also playing with the concept of finding ways to get women outside in a safe, fun, supportive way.

Calling the initiative “Athena,” Nuu-Muu’s first local event took place last July and brought together folks from the YMCA, Wild Whatcom, Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures, and local bike shops.

Fullenwider is excited about the possibilities of growing Athena. “2015 is going to be interesting!” she says.

“We still don’t have a big plan,” Fullenwider says when asked about the future of Nuu-Muu. She stops and rethinks that statement: “Our big plan is to keep having fun.”

To learn more about Nuu-Muu, visit its business page and Nuu-Muu Team page for the ins and outs, the scoop, and the skinny on this ever-growing Bellingham business that looks to empower women and girls to get outside, get active, get empowered, all while feeling comfortable and fashionable.

Nuu-Muu
1715 Ellis, Suite 102 in Bellingham
www.nuu-muu.com

“Shop for the Cause” to Raise Awareness and Funds for Haitian Women and Children

By

WhatcomTalk Editor

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Submitted by Shop for the Cause

On Sunday, Nov. 23, the first annual Shop for the Cause: Women’s Fall Market & Expo will be held at the Best Western PLUS Lakeway Inn and Conference Center at 714 Lakeway Drive.

“Fall is a time for shopping, but it’s also a time for giving. We wanted to do something that brings together those two ideas,” says Sommer Cronck, Event Planning Chair. “Espwa Berlancia is an organization in Haiti that supports women through the prenatal, birth and post-natal stages. They offer medical care, HIV testing, meals, support, and services to women and babies who otherwise have no options. The reason we chose Espwa Berlancia is not simply because it is a wonderful organization, but because it has a local connection.”

Rhyan Buettner, the Founder and Executive Director of Espwa Berlancia, is the daughter of Bellingham residents John and Jana Buettner. Rhyan traveled to Haiti on a mission trip in 2008 and immediately felt a connection to the country, culture and babies, leading her to return to Haiti in 2010 and make it her home. She has spent the past four years caring for and supporting impoverished women as they go through pregnancy, childbirth and learning to care for their new babies. She is currently training to be a midwife.

Buettner will be at the event with items handmade by Haitian artisans and as well as more information about her organization. All funds raised through event vendor fees, admission and raffles will go directly to Espwa Berlancia.

The event will also feature over twenty-five local exhibitors representing national brands including Jamberry Nails, Younique, Mary Kay, AdvoCare, Stella & Dot, 31 Gifts, Keep-Collective, LuLaRoe, doTerra, Miche Bag, Ava Anderson Non-Toxic, It Works! Global, Paparazzi Jewelry & Accessories, Wildtree, Grace Adele, Pampered Chef, Partylite, Plexus Worldwide, Origami Owl, Tupperware and Nerium AD. There will be live music and a raffle with over $500 in prizes to be won. The first twenty-five (25) attendees will receive gift bags, and all attendees will be given a complimentary entry into the raffle.

“Whether you are looking to get started on your holiday shopping, are interested in trying new products, want to support local small business owners or Espwa Berlancia, this event truly has something for everyone,” says Cronck.

Shop for the Cause: Women’s Fall Market & Expo will be from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Best Western PLUS Lakeway Inn and Conference Center and is open to the public. Admission is $5 for adults, with discounts for seniors and children. Exhibitor information, tickets and more event details can be found online at shopforthecause.org.

To learn more about Espwa Berlancia, please visit espwaberlancia.org.

Free Holiday Meals and Baskets in Bellingham, Ferndale, and Lynden

By

WhatcomTalk Editor

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It’s that time of year again, when we gather together with family and friends and give thanks. But for many in our communities, it’s not always possible to put a Thanksgiving feast on their table.

The following organizations generously help bring delicious meals to all, on and around Thanksgiving Day. Please remember to support them, if you can – by volunteering or through donations – as they support so many who need their help.

bellingham best breakfast — Old Town Cafe will be serving up its 42nd annual free Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 27, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

United Church of Ferndale
2034 Washington St, Ferndale
Saturday, November 22
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
360-714-9029

Ferndale Food Bank
1671 Main Street in Ferndale
An addition of turkey and a bag of holiday fixings to regular distribution prior to Thanksgiving on November 19, 22, 24, and 26.

Five Columns Restaurant
Thanksgiving dinner for seniors (age 65 and older). It’s recommended that you make a reservation a week ahead of the holiday.
1301 East Maple St, Bellingham
Thursday, November 27
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
360-676-9900

Lighthouse Mission
Bellingham’s Lighthouse Mission supplies a traditional Thanksgiving meal and clothes giveaway in the Assumption Church Gym.
2116 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham
Friday, November 28
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
360-733-5120

Lynden Project Hope Food Bank
Thanksgiving gift baskets provided for regular Project Hope clients.
205 South B.C. Avenue #105, Lynden
Monday, November 24, and Wednesday, November 26
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
360-354-HOPE (4673)

The changing colors of the leaves remind us that it's that time of year to give back to those in need. — The changing colors of the leaves remind us that it’s that time of year to give back to those in need.

Maple Alley Inn
Maple Alley Inn will provide a Thanksgiving meal the week before the Thursday holiday at Faith Lutheran Church.
2750 McLeod Rd, Bellingham
Thursday, November 20
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
360-739-7335

Old Town Café
Old Town Café serves up its 42nd annual free Thanksgiving dinner.
1316 West Holly Street in Bellingham
Thursday, November 27
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
360-671-4431

Salvation Army
Free Thanksgiving dinner – all are welcome.
2912 Northwest Ave, Bellingham
Wednesday, November 26
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
360-733-1410

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