NW Way of Life News: Q&A with Janet Lightner

 

Brandon Nelson, of Brandon Nelson Partners, sat down with Boundary Bay’s General Manager, Janet Lightner, for NW Way of Life News.

Q: Janet, tell us about the launch of Boundary Bay Brewery.

A: Ed dreamed up Boundary Bay all on his own. He had graduated wine-making school in Davis, CA, and had taken some malting and brewing classes down there as well. He already had a CPA from the UW and a good solid business sense. He felt strongly that a Brewery or Brewpub rather would be a more secure business model than a winery and chose that route. He loved the NW and wanted to get back so the search was on! He explored Whidbey Island pretty seriously, but was smitten with beautiful Bellingham and the College vibe. So Bam!! Here we are 20+ years after. I consulted with Ed prior to opening on the restaurant side of the business but did not join him for 18 months.

Q: When you and Ed won the Lifetime Achievement Award by 

Sustainable Connections, they wrote, “They think local first, take care of their employees and live the principled life.” Can you explain those key principles that guide your life?

A: Think Local First is one of our Mantras.  I choose to shop locally as I truly believe that is what gives us personality and  longevity as a community.  More money stays in Bellingham this way and you get to know your neighbors! Boundary Bay is more than a business to us. It has become a lifestyle and taking care of people is part of that lifestyle. We love and care about our employees and are their supporters on and off the job! Many have gone off to open their own businesses and that is such a proud moment! Both Mount Bakery and Wake-n-Bakery were opened by former Boundary Bay employees.

Q: What has been the most challenging part of the growth and success of Boundary Bay? What are some unexpected lessons you’ve learned as the business has grown and flourished?

A: The most challenging is that Boundary  did not come with a book or a manual. Sometimes it feels like we are still writing it! When you love and care about your staff you take on more personal risk, at times I have felt like Mom to over 100 people (and as a Parent Brandon you know the intensity of those feelings)! When the staff thrives, you thrive too! When mistakes are made you feel the hurt as well. So yes, in a nutshell, the people have been the most challenging, but I would not do it any other way. Unexpected lessons!?? WOW!! The whole opportunity has given me so much!  My instincts about the good inside all of us has been reinforced! I have dug deep in myself and found strength that I did not know I had. Working hard, dreaming big, caring lots.

Q: Janet, tell us the story of the most meaningful experience you had during your trip to Nepal.

A: Having lost my son Zack early in 2014 I was searching for a trip that would provide me with a physical challenge coupled with Spiritual relief. Trekking along the “Hemline of Heaven” provided both. The people sharing Namaste around each bend, the colorful prayer flags and the majesty of the Himalayas assuaged my heart and built back my stamina and zest for living. I am forever grateful.

Q: Your Women’s Ski to Sea Team has an unmatched legacy of 16 straight victories! What’s it like to be the organizing force that brings these women together year after year?

A: Yes! This will be year 17 for our Women’s Ski to Sea Team and we have won the competitive Women’s division 16 years in a row. The only Team I see beating that record or coming close to that is the Whatcom County Women’s Team. The organizing of the Team has become more event/reunion focused over the years as many athletes return year after year. There have been years of high stress trying to fill a spot on the roster. Injuries occurring days before the race have turned my world upside down. I’ve sat glued to the computer, or back in the day the telephone, waiting for a reply, clicking refresh, refresh, refresh! It has always worked out, but the anticipation can be brutal. It has been an honor to see our women go on to the Olympics and Worlds and becoming role models in their communities for women and girls to get outside and have fun! Going to Vancouver Olympics and watching Dasha Gaiazova race was an experience I will never forget. You can see her jersey hanging in the Tap Room at Boundary Bay right beside our Ski to Sea plaques! Our Team has blessed me with friendships to last a lifetime and a glimpse into the world of elite athletes that few may get to see.

Q: Janet, when I think of you the one word that comes to mind is “Giving.” And we see your endeavors become just so, so successful. Could every business, and the communities they serve, benefit from this “Janet Lightner Approach”? Or am I missing a secret sauce that can’t be replicated? 

A: Giving~ It’s good for us to help others! Part of Boundary’s mission is to give back so I guess it is in my job description and I love it! Bellingham is a special place and I truly believe that the Non-Profits in our community help to weave heart into the place we call home. Helping them succeed in helping others or protecting our natural resources is an honor! I am surrounded by wonderful people who make Boundary successful every day. I used to joke it takes a lot of brains to run mine but it’s true. We have a high retention rate at Boundary with many of our Tribe staying for 10 years and more. I am lucky to have landed here and appreciate the contributions from everyone over the years! I believe in seeing the good in people and situations, resolving conflict for Peace. As for the secret sauce… well that is probably the Beer!

Q: What’s on your bucket list??

A: Hmmmm. Today’s answer… visiting every one of our National Parks!

Buy Your Mom a Beer!

 

It’s a common myth that beer is a boy’s world.  But we know plenty of ladies who love their brews, too.  Which is why we think you should bring your mom here for brunch in our Beer Garden on Mother’s Day!  It’s been a tradition of ours for years and, trust us, the moms come out in full force…and not just because we offer each of them a free Mimosa.

Bring the whole family down to enjoy brunch between 10am and 2pm on Mother’s Day – Sunday, May 11th. Give us a call to make a reservation at 360-647-5593 or tell your server when you’re here having a beer after work and they’ll get you on the list.  Brunch is $25 per person, $17 for seniors, $12 for kids 6-12 years old and FREE for kids 5 years old and under.

On Sunday, May 11th, we’re serving up:

• Scrambled Eggs with Fontina (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
• Roasted Red Potato Home Fries with Paprika and Garlic (Vegan, Gluten Free)
• Assorted Quiches (both vegetarian and with meat)
• Bacon (Gluten Free)
• Sausage Links (Gluten Free)
• Ham Carving Station (Gluten Free)
• Fresh Fruits (Vegan, Gluten Free)
• Caprese Skewers (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
• Grilled and Chilled Marinated Vegetables (Vegan, Gluten Free)
• Spinach Salad with Chevre, Hazelnuts, Fresh Fruit, and White Balsamic-Champagne-Honey Reduction (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
• Fusilli Pasta Salad with Cherry and Sun Dried Tomatoes, Arugula, Pinenuts, Artichoke Hearts, and a white balsamic tomato vinaigrette (Vegetarian)
• Pineapple Coconut Bars (Vegetarian)
• Lemon Blueberry Scones (Vegetarian)
• 
Mini Chocolate Tarts (Vegetarian)
• Lemon Cream Tarts (Vegetarian)
• Bacon Cheddar Scones
• Banana Bread (Vegetarian)
• Shortbread Cookies (Vegetarian)
• Buttermilk Biscuits (Vegetarian)

 

 

Easter at the Brewery

Ok, yes, maybe a brewery isn’t the first place that pops into your mind when you think about what to do for Easter Brunch.  But we argue…why not give it a try?  We’ve got all the fixings of a traditional brunch…and BEER!

On Easter Sunday (4/20), we open up our brewery and beer garden extra early and invite the community to come celebrate with us.  We serve up an all you can eat feast and even have an easter egg hunt (11:15am) in our beer garden for the wee ones.

Those in the know, here in Bellingham, have made this a tradition, so be sure to make your reservations as space can fill up fast here on Easter morning!  We’re accepting reservations for 10am, 11:3oam and 1pm — just call us at (360) 647-5593!  $21 per person, $12 for kids 6 to 12 years, 5 years and under free.

This is a family friendly event and we love seeing families of multiple generations here that day enjoying our celebration.  We take extra care in our brunch menu, too, to have plenty of options for vegetarians and our gluten-free folks. Brunch is buffet style and will include the following menu items:

Scrambled Eggs (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
Devilled Eggs with Smoked Salmon (Gluten Free, Pescetarian)
Roasted Red Potato Home Fries with Paprika and Garlic (Vegan, Gluten Free)
Lamb Sausage Patties with Dill and Tarragon (Gluten Free)
Sausage Links (Gluten Free)
Ham Carving Station (Gluten Free)
Fresh Fruits (Vegan, Gluten Free)
Caprese Skewers (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
Grilled and Chilled Marinated Vegetables (Vegan, Gluten Free)
Spinach Salad with Chevre, Hazelnuts, Fresh Fruit, and White Balsamic-Champagne-Honey Reduction (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
Corned Beef Hash (Gluten Free)
Shortbread Cookies (Vegetarian)
Orange Cranberry Cream Scones (Vegetarian)
Biscuits and Gravy (Biscuits are vegetarian)
Peas and Mint Farfalle Salad (Vegetarian)
Sour Cream and Fresh Berry Coffee Cake (Vegetarian)

 

 

 

Bellingham Bay BREWS Cruises

Boundary Bay and San Juan Cruises are excited to announce the return of our summer BREWS Cruises. Every Wednesday evening, we invite you to hop aboard the Victoria Star and tour the Bay as we serve a variety of our award-winning beers. Boundary will be joined by two additional Northwest breweries who will also be serving up their finest ales. These tasty brews will be paired with plenty of savory snacks.  Spend a summer evening kicking back and enjoying the spectacular views Bellingham bay has to offer! 

Cruises are $35 per adult.  Fee includes the tastings of three beers, per brewery. Cruises will sell out quickly so reserve your spot ONLINE or by calling 1-800-443-4552 or (360) 738-8099. (This summer, season passes are available!)  The boat departs from the Alaska Ferry Terminal in Fairhaven at 6:30pm. Check in 30 minutes prior to pick up your tickets and board the Victoria Star.

CRUISE DATE & BREWERIES:

July 10 – Boundary, Kulshan Brewery, Chuckanut Brewery

July 17 –  Boundary, Flyers Brewery, Skagit River Brewery

July 24 – Boundary, Scuttlebutt Brewery, Birdsview Brewing Company

July 31–  Boundary, Dick’s Brewery, Island Hoppin’ Brewery

Aug 07 – Boundary, Pike Place Brewing, North Sound Brewery

Aug 14 – Boundary, Elysian Brewery, Georgetown Brewery 

Aug 21 – Boundary, Port Townsend Brewery, Lazy Boy Brewery

Aug 28 – Boundary, Diamond Knot, Schooner EXACT Brewing Co. 

Sept 04 –Boundary, Snoqualmie Falls Brewing Co., Ram Brewing at Northgate 

Sept 11 – Boundary, Hale’s Ales, Northfork Brewery 

***Pictures courtesty of San Juan Cruises***

Dueling DJ’s take the stage at Boundary

Yes, it is true…the eight-year tradition of Reggae Night in our Boundary beer garden has come to a close.  And while we’re all sad to see the DJ Yogoman Saga come to a close, we mustn’t lose Jordan Rain’s Wild Rumpus Spirit!

So fear not, Loyal Bounders, we bring to you an epically fresh FREE Wednesday Night series we’re calling DUELING DJ’s featuring spin masters DJ KitchenSink and DJ IDLHNDS.  So how is this going to work, you ask?

DJ KitchenSink

DJ IDLHNDS

Both DJ’s will be spinning “mini-sets” back and forth giving us as a feel for their individual sounds, while showcasing their ability to vibe off each other. Gabe (DJ IDLHNDS) and Craig (DJ KitchenSink) have vastly different styles, and both have gained a substantial following of fans in our area.  We can’t wait to hear the creative mish mash of music DJ IDLHANDS and DJ KitchenSink will produce as they take the stage in their first DUEL!

We simply couldn’t leave you hanging at the end of the summer with nothing to do on Wednesdays! You’re half way through the week, and here at Boundary, that’s something to celebrate. So Head down to our Garden, have some beer, and check out what’s spinning from the stage…

Wendesday, September 12th
8pm in the Boundary Beer Garden
No Cover, All ages until 10pm

Spina Bifida Benifit

August 19th, 8:00pm-10:00pm. Boundary Bay is honored to hold a fundraiser to help a family from Bellingham raise money for the Spina Bifida Association. The event is in honor of a little boy named Sammy. Live music will be played by The Popoffs, $5 cover. There will be raffle drawings at 9:00pm with prizes donated by local businesses and members of the community. One raffle ticket is included with cover, and additional tickets for $3 each, or 5 for $10. We encourage members of the community to come and join us for this inspiring and significant occasion.

  

Sammy was born in Haiti just over four years ago. When an unexplained bump arose on his face, villagers advised that his parents to let him starve to death, unable to treat his ailment. Sammy’s birth parents courageously decided to do otherwise and brought their son to a United States-run clinic where medical staff could help him. His condition was serious. Sammy had a form of Spina Bifida, a birth defect in which the backbone and spinal canal do not close before birth. His was a rare form, where the opening was between his eyes. The results of this birth defect are life changing, strenuous, and often tragic. Thankfully, Sammy was able to obtain donated care and received two surgeries by an outstanding medical team in Sacramento, CA. He was hosted by Jeremiah and Kimberly, and Kimberly accompanied Sammy during his stays in California. Later he was adopted by them and became the youngest of five children. Sammy B. is now a patient at renowned Seattle Children’s Hospital where he is scheduled for another surgery on September 18th, 2012.

Christella

Six years ago, Jeremiah and Kimberly became more aware of how Spina Bifida can effect children.  When they met two young Haitian girls with Spina Bifida, Christella and Helande, their lives were forever changed. They have met several other local families with children born with Spina Bifida. Kimberly and Jeremiah have actively chosen to help raise money to help others with this debilitating condition.  Now you can help them out too, by educating yourself about Spinda Bifida, by spreading awareness, and attending Team Sammy B’s fundraiser.

Helande

Spoken in the words of Kimberly herself: “So that brings me to running. Why? I am pushing myself. I have been focusing on getting into shape, and setting challenging goals for myself. I want to raise awareness and support for something dear to my heart. I also want to help others with Spina Bifida. I want every time I feel my foot hit the pavement to feel gratitude that I can walk and run without the help of a walker or wheelchair. I want to be an inspiration to my children, family and friends.  So here I am, pushing myself farther than I ever thought I would go. Signing up to run a half marathon. In Miami. And my husband is joining in and training with me!”

In order to run in this race, Kimberly and Jeremiah have committed to raise $6500 for the Spina Bifida Association. They kindly ask for your support and donations. Here is the link to their page:

Jeremiah and Kimberly

Spina Bifida is the most commonly occurring, permanently disabling birth defect in the United States. It affects over 166,000 men, women, adolescents, and children across the nation. Spina Bifida occurs when the spine of a baby fails to close properly in the first month of pregnancy resulting in an opening in the spinal column. Those who are born with Spina Bifida live with the challenges of conditions like hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain), full or partial paralysis, bladder and bowel complications, learning disabilities, depression, deadly latex allergy, and social issues. There are 65 million women of childbearing age in this country, and all are at risk of a Spina Bifida pregnancy. It is imperative that all of them know that by taking 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, before they become pregnant, they can reduce the risk of having a baby with Spina Bifida by up to 70%.

Twilight Concert Series

A bustling hang out spot for all ages, the Boundary Bay Beer Garden is pleased to bring yet another series of free concerts intended for all Bellinghamsters alike! Every Thursday, we’re enticing you to stay out later with our free twilight concerts in our Beer Garden.

The loyal faces we see weekly know our beer garden offers a unique family-friendly atmosphere brimming with tasty beer and BBQ treats. Every Thursday (Wednesday and Friday too!) we offer happy hour prices from 4pm-6pm in the garden which means dinner for just $5 and a dollar off your pint! The aroma of delicious burgers, salmon fillet, onion rings among other summer delights never ceases to allure locals back for more. But rather than end the night early, why not continue the excitement well into dusk?

Kick off your weekend early and check out Boundary’s newest weekly addition; Thursday Twilight Concert Series. From 8:30-11PM, all ages until 10PM.

Sep 13: Chivalry Timbers

Sep 20: Hot Damn Scandal & Chivalry Timbers

Sep 27: Hot Damn Scandal & Chivalry Timbers

The Ames: This trio of talented musicians have certainly made a name for themselves in Bellingham area. The energy and uniqueness of The Ames never ceases to captivate their audience. Members of the band include Sam Carlton on piano, banjo, guitar, harmonica, kazoo, and vocals, Mike Lanz on drums and percussion, and Dan Swan on bass and vocals. Their music can be described as a combination of ragtime, rhythm, folk and soul. Fans characterize The Ames as the perfect concoction of all genres synthesized into a flowing and crisp instrumental performance group.

Skitnik: Described by the band themselves as “Electic Balkin inspired music,” you will surely be awed by the nonpareil and lively sound of this seven member ensemble. Names of the talent include Carrie Crockett, Alex Larson, Jeff Lefferts, Amiel Martin, R.J. Rex, Ellie Rogers and Stefan Freelan. “Skitnik” is actually Bulargian for the word “wanderer”…which may shed light on the uncategorized and eclectic sound this band prides itself on. No words will accurately convey the sound Skitnik brings to the stage, so it is best you come and check them out for yourselves!

 

Hot Damn Scandal: With an always evolving list of band members, it is evident that Hot Damn Scandal is genuinely passionate about experimenting with their dynamic sound. Whichever instruments and members they might show up with, you surely will not be disappointed with the liveliness Hot Damn Scandal will bring! Describing their genre of style as “Tipsy Americana Blues,” Hot Damn Scandal continually brings an incomparable uproar to the stage.

Chivalry Timbers: “We’re a group of schwashbucklin’ hoo hawin’ Northwestern folk in love with the songs of old, with a fresh new twist.” And this they are. An acoustic, folk, and instrumental group, Chivalry Timbers is encompassed by three talented musicians: Warren Allen (violin, fiddle) Michael Raper (stand up bass) and Kris Staples-Weyrauch (guitar) and Joe (percussion). A tight sounding, animated knee slapping kind of band, everyone enjoys listening to these polished guys over a pint!

Drinking Beer and Doing Good

If you know us at all, you know that here at Boundary Bay Brewery, we care just as much about giving back to the community as we do about making really, really good beer.  Luckily, those two pursuits go hand in hand pretty often.  This weekend’s Brewers by the Bay beer festival is a perfect example!

This Sunday (July 22nd), from 1-5pm, representative from 30 regional breweries will gather at the Depot Market Square (at the corner of Railroad Avenue and Maple Street) to bring you over 60 different micro brews to sample.  In it’s sixth year, this Bellingham beer festival gathers together craft beer lovers who enjoy great beer, good food and live music while helping to raise money for local non profit organizations.  This year, the music will be provided by The Playlists, Lost at Last and the Lost Highway Band.

Tickets ($25 advance / $30 at the door) include entrance to the event, a commemorative tasting glass, your first five tastes and live music. Best of all, the proceeds from this event go directly to organizations such as Northwest Youth Services, Whatcom Hospice House, Bellingham Boys & Girls Club as well as many other youth and family focused charities throughout Whatcom County.  You can get your tickets in advance here at our brewery or at one of these other locations: Applied Digital Imaging, Natural Way Chiropractic, Chuckanut Brewery and Elizabeth Station.

So, come spend an afternoon with us in downtown Bellingham – drinking beer and doing good!

Not only will you help support many of our local non profits, but you’ll get to enjoy delicious beers from Alameda Brewing Company, Alaskan Brewing, American Brewing Company, Anderson Valley Brewing Company, Big Sky Brewing Company, Boundary Bay Brewery, Chuckanut Brewery, Diamond Knot Brewing, Dick’s Brewing Company, Elysian Brewing Company, Emerald City Brewing, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Fish Brewing Company, Fremont Brewing Company, Georgetown Brewing Company, Harmon Brewing Company, Kulshan Brewery, Lost Coast Brewing Company, Mac & Jack’s Brewing Company, Ninkasi Brewing Company, Oakshire Brewing, Odin Brewing Company, Pike Brewing Company, Skagit River Brewery, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Stone Brewing Company, 21st Amendment Brewery and Two Beers Brewing Company.

Cheers, Graduates!

Another school year is winding down and for some the end of this quarter brings about the end of their college years.  We’re here to say Congrats, Graduates from all of us here at Boundary Bay Brewery!  We know how much hard work has gotten you to where you are and we know that NOW it’s time to celebrate!!

If you’re looking for a place to hang out with your whole family on graduation day, why not bring ’em here for our Graduation Brunch on Saturday, June 9th?

We’ll have all kinds of delicious eats out in the Beer Garden and plenty of room for you, the parents and THEIR parents, your unruly siblings and even crazy uncle Joe!  We’re taking reservations from 10am – 2pm.  For $20 per person ($12 for kids 6-12 years, 5 years and under eat free) enjoy all you can eat:

• scrambled eggs (vegetarian, gluten free)
• boiled eggs (vegetarian, gluten free)
• quiches (some vegetarian)
• sausage
• bacon (gluten free)
• baked corn tortilla egg cups with sour creme and salsa (vegetarian, gluten free)
• granola and yogurt (vegetarian)
• biscuits and gravy
• fruits (vegan, gluten free)
• banana bread (vegetarian)
• spinach salad with champagne-honey-white balsamic reduction, chevre, fruits, hazelnuts (vegetarian, gluten free)
• cucumber tea sandwiches (vegetarian)
• turkey pesto finger sandwiches
• roasted red potato home fries (vegan, gluten free)
• caprese skewers (vegetarian, gluten free)
• tortellini pesto pasta salad (vegetarian)
• chocolate dipped macaroons (vegetarian, gluten free)

We’ll also have the BBQ’s up and running from 2-8pm if you’d rather come for a good ole’ backyard BBQ instead of a big, fancy brunch.  Live music too!  We do suggest making reservations for brunch, though, as it can fill up quick.  Call us here at the brewpub anytime to make your reservations (360-647-5593) or let your server know next time you’re here for a meal or a beer and we’ll get your name on the list!

Ski to Sea Weekend with BEER!

For many years, a big part of Bellingham’s Memorial Day tradition has been the Ski to Sea race and accompanying festivities.  The race itself is a 93.5 relay race from MT. Baker to Bellingham Bay encompassing seven different sports:  Cross Country Ski; Downhill Ski/Snowboard; Running; Road Bike; Canoe; Mountain Bike and Kayak.

The weekend of fun also includes a community block party with music and food (and a Boundary Bay Brewery beer garden!), a junior Ski to Sea Race for the little ones, a hometown parade and special events all around town – including plenty of ones right here at Boundary Bay Brewery.

Starting Friday, May 25th, we’ll have all kinds of family friendly entertainment to keep everybody busy.  This Friday kicks off the Official Ski to Sea Block Party in our Beer Garden!  There’ll be music, dancing, food and fun.  It’s a costume party too (NOT required!), so wear your Ski to Sea themed attire for a chance to win a fabulous prize! Dress as an original 1911 racer or a modern day racer…be as creative as you want.  AND, the first 800 racers who show up with their race bibs get an official 2012 Ski to Sea beer glass for free!  Oh, and be sure to enter the Ski to Sea and Alaska Airlines contest for a chance to win two round trip tickets from Bellingham to ANYWHERE Alaska Airlines flies. We’ll have our BBQ up and running and there’ll be live music by The Atlantics, too!

Then, on Saturday, May 26th our Beer Garden will open at 2pm and we’ll have the BBQ running all day.  The Bellingham Firefighters Pipes & Drums band will be performing throughout the afternoon along with performances from other pipe and drum bands from the area.  Around 7pm, we’ll start charging a $5 cover for the live music by Sundance which is all ages till 10pm.

The weekend’s festivities will wrap up on Sunday, May 27th with live music by the True Spokes (formerly Flowmotion) at 8:30pm.  The show has a $10 cover as is 21+only, but the Beer Garden and BBQ open at 2, so people of all ages are welcome to relax down there and enjoy BBQ and beer until around 8 when we’ll start charging covers.

Be sure to try some of our Ski to Sea ESB this weekend, too!  It’s brewed specially to commemorate and celebrate the Ski to Sea annual race and this rare brew of ours only gets released once a year.  It’s available on tap here at the brewpub and in 22 oz. bottles sold here at Boundary Bay Brewery and at local grocery stores like Haggens.

Our Ski to Sea ESB is a copper colored English style pale ale that emphasizes the subtle blend of imported and domestic malts. The addition of dry hops adds a delightful hoppy aroma and a slight floral, grassy flavor.

We’ve even got Ski to Sea ESB tshirts and hoodies if you wanna commemorate your experience here in Bellingham this weekend!