Great award for Great Harvest Bread

Ballard's Great Harvest Bread Co. received a "Phenomenal Bread Award" during the company's recent annual convention in Cancun, Mexico. The bakery was one of five Great Harvest bakeries nationwide to win this prestigious recognition.

"Bob and Crystal Carlson were up against some of the finest bread artisans in the country," said Mike Ferretti, president of Great Harvest Franchising, Inc. "It felt great to recognize the Ballard bakery. Not only do they create amazing fresh whole wheat bread, they also take joy in supporting the local community, and championing environmental causes within our organization," he added.

"We are thrilled to receive this recognition," Ballard bakery owner Crystal Carlson said. "We work hard doing what we love in a community that's amazing. That's always been what drives us - our craft, our customers and being connected to the Ballard community," said Carlson.

Abraxas brings in

half million books

Abraxas Books is moving to the old Ballard Library at 5711 24th Ave. N.W. and will open on March 1 with a half million books. The store is owned by Tony Topalian.

"The demographics in Ballard are perfect. I live in Ballard and have always wanted a great bookstore in Ballard," owner Tony Topalian.

The store will sell both new and used books in every subject category. Topalian said his staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The hours will be Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit http://www.abraxasbooks.com.

Gourmet food by

Kathy Casey

Kathy Casey has opened her Dish D'Lish Ballard Flagship Care and Gourmet Store at 5136 Ballard Ave. N.W. The store offers sandwiches, salads, baked goods, espresso, hand shaken berry lemonade, grab and go items, cheeses in addition to Dish D'Lish retail products and other merchandise. A cold case offers salads, side dishes and entrees for take home dinners. The hours are Tuesday to Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Mondays are closed. The store provides a 10 percent discount to local businesses and their employees.

Sponsor needed for

Seafair parade

The Greenwood-Phinney Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community become official sponsors of 15th Annual Greenwood Classic Car and Hot Rod Show on June 23rd and the Greenwood Seafair Parade on July 25th.

While the parade is sanctioned by Seafair, it provides no monetary assistance. The community is responsible for 100 percent of the cost of hosting events.