Daughters of Norway to meet
The Daughters of Norway will meet at 9:30 a.m. today at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Clinton.
Sue Frause will be the guest speaker and will talk about her Norway Northern Lights trip.
All women of Scandinavian descent or married into Scandinavian descent are welcome.
Helpers needed
to clean beaches
Volunteers are needed to help keep Whidbey Island beaches clean. Clean-ups are every
Saturday; helpers are welcome to come to the first clean-up of the day at 10 a.m., the second at
1 p.m., or both.
The schedule is April 12, Deception Pass, Ala Spit;
April 19, Joseph Whidbey State Park, Fort Ebey State Park;
April 26, Double Bluff, Freeland County Park; May 3, Ebey Road end, Fort Casey Spit north;
May 10, Fort Casey Spit middle, Fort Casey Spit south; May 17, Deception Pass, Ala Spit; May 24, Fort Casey Spit south, Fort Casey Spit middle; June 7, Double Bluff, Freeland County Park; June 14, Ebey Road end, Fort Casey Spit north; June 21, Joseph Whidbey State Park, Fort Ebey State Park; June 28, Fort Casey Spit south, Fort Casey Spit middle.
Gallery presents three voices show
Sculptor Sue Taves joins 2-D artists Diane Divelbess and Carolyn Divelbess Denning in the April show at Karlson/Gray Gallery, “Three Women — Three Voices.”
Taves’ fluid sculptural style transforms the surface of stone and manages to capture an individual moment in time. Each sculpture, highly polished, carved and sanded, gives voice to the inherent beauty within the stone itself.
Divelbess once again shows the range of her talents and focuses on the non-objective in this body of work. Pieces range from acrylic on canvas to mixed media. Divelbess was a member of the art faculty at Cal Poly University, Pomona for a number of years.
Divelbess Denning will focus on the landscape, both real and imaginary. Her pieces are rendered in both pastels and watercolors that reflect the landscape of her native Nevada.
Karlson/Gray Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and is located at 302 First St. in Langley.
Gallery presents Bart Rulon photos
The Whidbey Art Gallery will “Spring Into Art” and feature the works of its newest member, photographer Bart Rulon, and established member Maggie Lancaster, a fiber artist.
Rulon is a naturalist, photographer, painter and author. He graduated with honors, from the University of Kentucky with a degree in scientific illustration. His work focuses on landscapes and wildlife, specializing in birds, and has been in exhibitions, galleries and museums in five countries.
Look for a new body of work with spring themes and bright spring colors, by Lancaster; her colorful pieces embody the feeling of spring.
Whidbey Art Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays through Thursday.
For info, call 221-7675 or visit www.whidbeyartists.com.
Spring show at Artworks Gallery
The 11 artists and jewelers at Artworks Gallery at Greenbank Farm have installed many new works for the spring season.
Barbara Lyter features a new series of photo-intaglio prints and John Olsen explores the confined spaces of Fort Ebey and Fort Casey at night. Painters Eva Blaisdell, Rainey Lindell and Linda Shaffer have brilliant, colorful work to celebrate the season.
Also, enjoy the playful creations of Seattle sculptor Jeff Bowman at the gallery.
Artworks Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
For more information, call 360-678-1871 or 360-222-3010.
New show comes
Langley’s MUSEO
This month at MUSEO in Langley, the gallery presents works by Inge Roberts and Maxine Martell.
Roberts, a Whidbey Island ceramicist, uses a modified method of thin-slab building to create her porcelain forms, which are inspired by the iconography of ancient peoples, buildings and sites.
Martell has worked in numerous public and private collections, including the Kobe Art Museum in Japan, The Henry in Seattle, and Microsoft’s art collection. An installation of five large paintings can be seen at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
The exhibit will run through Sunday, April 27.
MUSEO is at 215 First St. in Langley and is open daily from
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Experts help solve
gardening problems
Island County Master Gardeners will hold plant clinics at the Coupeville Farmers Market and Wal-Mart in Oak Harbor from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today. Stop by with questions about plants and gardening problems.
Inner-Peace Fair comes to Langley
Island Coffee House & Books presents an Inner-Peace Fair with poets and minstrels, singers and dancers, artists and puppets and more from noon to 5 p.m. today.
The event will also feature guest speakers, yogis, healers and seers and face painting. For info, call 221-3661.
Learn to tango
at the Clinton hall
Enjoy Argentine-style tango dancing every Saturday evening 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Clinton Community Hall. The first hour is devoted to instruction. No partner is required and beginners are welcome — if you can walk, you can dance the tango.
A $10 donation toward the hall rental is encouraged. Contact Robbie at 541-829-3184 or
student405@hotmail.com for info.
Jewbilee returns to Rockhoppers
Rockhoppers is pleased to once again welcome Jewbilee at
7 p.m. tonight.
Jewbilee, based out of Everett, plays traditional Jewish music in a nontraditional way; as jazz, swing, rock, Ladino and what they call Jewgrass. Or as the band says, “This ain’t your Bubbe’s Klezmer.” Jewbilee is a diverse group of Jewish and non-Jewish musicians.
There will be a $5 cover for the musicians. As with all musicians at Rockhoppers on Saturday, the music will be streamed live at www.ferryfolk.com.
Come to Rockhoppers and get dinner, coffee and music and find some terrific friends as well.
Bayview hosts
second Saturday
Coyote Blues are back to play a benefit dance for Bayview Hall at 7:30 p.m. tonight.
There will also be a workshop from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. where Janice Eklund will teach some fun intermediate swing moves.
The hall is owned by the residents of the South Whidbey School District and is a wonderful place to dance; $10 is all it takes to have some fun while helping the hall.
Volunteers are making this happen and get to decide what happens next. Lend a hand and be a part of the fun.
Call Tom at 221-2201 or
tetrimbath@whidbey.com.
WICA presents ‘Enchanted April’
“Enchanted April” comes to Whidbey Island Center for the Arts this month.
Directed by K. Sandy O’Brien, “Enchanted April” features Deana Duncan as Lotty Wilton, the repressed, satellite wife of a stiff-upper-lip solicitor, Mellersh (Bob Atkinson), and Jennifer Bondelid as the “disappointed Madonna” Rose Arnott, wife of a social-climbing novelist, Frederick (Rob Scott). “Enchanted April” is at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays through
April 26.
For tickets, call WICA at
221-8268 or 800-638-7631 or visit www.WICAonline.com.
Janie and Joe play the Dog House
Janie and Joe will play soulful original folk-rock-blues with a Celtic twist tonight at the Dog House Tavern in Langley.
The show starts at 9 p.m. and there is a $5 cover.
Farmers market kicks off Sunday
Greenbank Farm hosts a Sunday farmers market in the barn. Renowned Celtic harpist David Michael will perform and Master Gardeners will be on site to answer your gardening questions.
The market runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For information, e-mail GBSundaymarket@whidbey.com.
Series starts at Whidbey Institute
“Practical Sustainability,” the first of four parts of “Ethno-otany of the Northwest: Foraging Tender Shoots & Leafy Greens,” will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 13 at the Whidbey Institute.
The session will be led by Eric Conn and Britt Walker, co-directors of the Sustainability Research and Education Project. The session is $15; $5 for those under 21.
John Graham is speaker at forum
John Graham, former Foreign Service Officer, local writer and activist will be the featured speaker at the Whidbey Island Democratic Club Forum from
2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 13.
Graham will read from his just-published memoir, “Sit Down Young Stranger,” and invites a discussion on what individuals can do to make a difference. Graham has been actively involved in peace-building initiatives all over the world. He’s helped end apartheid in South Africa, avert a major strike in Canada, save what’s left of the Everglades, settle a war in the Sudan and find long-term environmental solutions in the Pacific Northwest.
The forum will be held in the Hayes Hall Conference Room at the SVC/OH library. A book signing and refreshments will follow. Admission is free.
For info, call 360-675-8318.
Chamber meets for luncheon
Delicious boxed lunches, made especially for the Freeland Chamber of Commerce from the Beach Cabin will be the featured fare at the April 14 monthly luncheon.
Plan to meet at the Fireside Room at Trinity Lutheran Church (in the newer building) from
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bill Criswell will speak about motivational techniques specific to small business owners.
Criswell has developed many inspirational strategies over his long career, first as a construction company owner and later as founder of Impact Teams International.
The cost is $10; reservations must be made by the Monday prior to the event by calling the chamber at 331-1980 or e-mailing freeland@whidbey.com.
Society hears of
Custer’s Last Stand
The Genealogical Society of South Whidbey Island welcomes Christopher Summitt, who will present a program entitled “Village on the Little Big Horn” at the next meeting at 1 p.m. Monday, April 14.
Summitt spent five years with the National Park Service at Custer Battlefield National Monument as a ranger/historian, telling the story of the famous battle. Since then, he has spoken at historians’ conferences and written articles for historical publications on various controversial aspects of the Little Bighorn fight.
Custer’s Last Stand is one of the most famous episodes of American history. With historic maps, art, and photos the program tells the story of how Lakota and Cheyenne warriors happened to camp where they did and how Custer and the 7th Cavalry found them there on June 25, 1876.
Education classes start at noon. This month the beginner class will study land and military Records, and the intermediate class will be on genealogy technical tools. The field trip will take place on Tuesday, April 22, to Laura Pemberton Sparr’s library in Mount Vernon.
The society meets at Trinity Lutheran Church Chapel and Community Building located at Highway 525 near Woodard Road in Freeland. Guests are welcome.
For questions, call 331-5715 or 579-2352, or e-mail genealogysociety@whidbey.com, or visit www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~wagsswi/new.
Parent talk series
continues in Langley
The parent coffee night discussion series continues at 7 p.m. Monday, April 14 with “College-bound: Strategies for handling freedom with responsibility.”
A panel of parents of college students who have “been there” will talk about how they have responsibly handled the transition from high school to college. The group will discuss typical issues that arise and explore possible responses to help this transition time go smoothly.
The talk is at Island Coffee House, 124 Second St., Langley.
This discussion is part of a monthly series sponsored by the Learning and Community Engagement Program. For more info, contact Debby Elwell at
221-6808, ext. 5417 or e-mail
delwell@sw.wednet.edu.
Nancy Stewart shares fairy tales
Sno-Isle Libraries is proud to present “Magical Mother Goose” at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 15 at the Langley Library.
Join Nancy Stewart, well known children’s recording artist, for a musical celebration of nursery rhymes. Children will help bring the rhymes to life with audience participation and fun props.
GOP Women host
Rossi campaign
Sandi Peterson, Dino Rossi’s Island County Co-chairman, will be the speaker at South Whidbey Republican Women’s meeting at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 15 at Useless Bay Country Club.
She will be speaking on behalf of Rossi’s campaign for governor of Washington. All Republican women are invited to attend.
For reservations, call Pam Luhn at 579-8868 or Jean Goodfellow at 579-5348.
Writers group to meet in Clinton
Rockhoppers is also pleased to announce its Whidbey Writer’s Cafe, which will meet from 4 to
9 p.m. every Tuesday evening.
All writers are welcome, and there will be an open mic for those who want to try out new stories. The weekly gathering is for people who want to meet the authors and who might be interested in exploring writing as well.
Rockhoppers will have coffee, tea and a load of goodies as well some dinner items for those who want to catch this right after work.
Students share love of poetry
The Clinton Library is proud to present students from the advanced poetry class of the Whidbey Island Writers Association to celebrate poetry month. They will share original poetry and discuss what motivates them to write on at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 15 at the Clinton Community Hall.
Students honored
at AAUW reception
The Whidbey Island Branch of the American Association of University Women will honor three girls from each of the Whidbey Island high schools for their achievements in mathematics, science and technology at a reception at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, at the Coupeville United Methodist church.
The public is welcome to attend.
Lyceum focus is on ‘Sound Thinking’
Lyceum 2008 is “Sound Thinking: The Life & Health of Puget Sound.” The lecture series returns for six Tuesday evenings through May 6 at the Bayview Cash Store.
The lectures will focus on Puget Sound: How it works, what its current state is and what the future holds in store.
On April 15 is “Energy from the Sound: Harnessing Tidal Power” with Mitsuhiro Kawase of the University of Washington’s School of Oceanography.
On April 22 is “Protecting the Sound’s Birds & Mammals” with Kevin Ryan of the Washington Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
On April 29 is “Saving the Sound, One Step at a Time” with Sarah Schmidt, co-author of “Getting to the Water’s Edge.”
And on May 6, “The Partnership in Our Future” will be presented by David Dicks, executive director of the Puget Sound Partnership.
This series is co-sponsored by the Whidbey Institute at Chinook, WSU Island County Extension, Whidbey Audubon Society, Island County Marine Resources Committee and Whidbey Watershed Stewards.
Lectures will be held from
7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Front Room at the Bayview Cash Store.
The six-week Lyceum series costs $6 per lecture, at the door or in advance from the Whidbey Institute.
Call 341-1884 or e-mail info@whidbeyinstitute.org for info.
Family Storytime at the libraries
Family Storytime is coming to South End libraries this month.
Stories, songs and simple crafts for children 18 months to 5 years and their caregivers will be at
10 a.m. Wednesdays, April 16, 23 and 30 at the Freeland Library, and 10 a.m. Tuesdays, April 22 and 29 at the Langley Library.
‘Rise Up Girls!’ program at LMS
“Rise Up Girls,” a six-week after-school program for eighth- and ninth-grade girls, will be held from 2:45 to 4:30 p.m Wednesdays, April 16 to May 21, in the library at Langley Middle School.
The group will explore hopes and dreams and look at issues like friendship, peer pressure, identity and empowerment. Through arts-based activities and conversation, girls will expand their creativity, get to know each other better and have loads of fun.
Space is limited; for information, or to enroll, contact
Debby Elwell at 221-4300, ext. 5417, or delwell@sw.wednet.edu; or Leslie Cotter at 221-6270 or lcotter@whidbey.com.
MAGIC talks about iWeb
MAGIC, the Macintosh Appreciation Group of Island County, will meet from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 16 in the Fireside Room at Trinity Lutheran Church.
Robert Elphick will present “Building web sites with iWeb.”
For more information call Elphick at 360-678-5789 or visit www.whidbey.com/magicmug/.
Speaker recounts rouges and explorers
The South Whidbey Yacht Club is proud to present Capt. John Colby Stone at its meeting on Wednesday, April 16.
The meeting begins with sips and dips at 6:30, followed by the program at 7 p.m.
Stone will speak about the historical origins and human perspectives in the naming of our islands, mountains and maritime features in his multimedia presentation called “Who Were These Guys.” He is a repeat speaker to the club brought back by popular demand because of his humorous and fascinating approach to our historical heritage.
This is a “not to be missed” program about the rogues, explorers and Native Americans who contributed to our Puget Sound heritage. The event is open to the community, and will be held at the Honeymoon Bay Clubhouse, 4343 Honeymoon Bay Road, Freeland.
‘One Suitcase Travel’ talk at the library
Penny Todd from the Savvy Traveler in Edmonds will be at the Freeland Library meeting room at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 16 to talk about the advantages of traveling light.
Todd is a semi-retired nurse who has traveled all over for business, pleasure, disaster relief and on a medical mission to Africa and she does it all with just one carry on bag! She says that no matter what your reason for travel it works better with one bag. She will cover wardrobe coordination, security concerns and the new travel rules, pickpockets and how to avoid them and travel health.
Admission is free.
Relay For Life to meet this week
Relay For Life of South Whidbey is looking for people who want to start a team, join a team or simply support a team. Teams currently being formed include LDS Lappers, China City, Sound Business Center, Freeland Chamber, Fernandez/Holocker Clan, Senior Services, Maple Ridge, Wescott Floors, Barrett Escrow, Island County Wellness and others.
Team captain meetings will be held at China City at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays on April 16 and May 21.
For info contact team development chairwoman Virginia Bloom at 331-3132 or vbloom@soundbusinesscenter.com. Visit events.cancer.org/rflsouthwhidbey.wa for information on South Whidbey’s Relay For Life.
Transformative evening in Coupeville
A transformative evening with Matrix Energetics will be held at 7 p.m Thursday, April 17 at Madrona Massage. Gabriel Schoening combines her intuitive gifts with the transformational power of Matrix Energetics.
Matrix Energetics is a new method of transformation based on quantum physics and allows for the possibility to create a desired change fast, for yourself, your health, your finances, your business, your family or any relationship. It is effective, fun and revolutionary. This evening will give you a solid introduction and live demonstrations.
Schoening is a facilitator at Dr. Bartlett’s workshops in San Francisco, Seattle and Vancouver.
A $5 to $10 donation is not required, but appreciated. Madrona Massage is at 2111 Madrona Way, Coupeville. For more information or sessions please call 579 1763.
Lecture details Swiss visionary
Gaila MacKenzie will give a talk on Emma Kunz at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 17 in the Fireside Room at the Langley Methodist Church.
Kunz was a Swiss visionary and healer/artist whose powerful geometric paintings and visions she called “Medicine for the 21st Century.” She is the only healer to be commemorated on a Swiss stamp, and MacKenzie will offer a lively introduction to this fascinating and revolutionary planetary healer.
Admission is by donation. For further details, please contact gmmackenzie@earthlink.net.
Musical puppet show coming
The Clinton Library invites preschool aged children and their caregivers to join puppeteer Dawn Collins and Talia Marcus, musician, as they present stories, songs, and fun with puppets at 10 a.m. Friday, April 18.
This program will be at the Clinton Community Hall so there will be plenty of room.
Have fun at ‘Baby and Me’ storytime
“Baby and Me” comes to the Freeland Library at 11 a.m. Fridays, April 18 and 25.
It features stories, songs and movement activities for babies through 18 months and their caregivers.
Stewart Cubley workshop in Freeland
The Painting Experience with Stewart Cubley for a 2 1⁄2-day workshop at Freeland Hall the weekend of April 18-20.
Join Cubley in the discovery of an extraordinary resource: the vibrant, driving force of your own creative spirit. The Painting Experience appeals to people who are interested in the dimensions of artistic/creative, healing/therapeutic, meditative/spiritual and authentic social change. People from all levels of experience are welcome, including those who have never picked up a paintbrush.
The workshop is 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and will be held at Freeland Hall. All materials are supplied. The cost is $425 plus $25 materials fee. Discounts may apply and scholarships are available.
For more information, visit www.processarts.com, call toll free 888.639.8569, or e-mail virginia@processarts.com.
Special evening of dance coming
“Dancing Through Times of Change” will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, April 18.
It features an evening of “magick and transformation at Asherah” — embracing the energies of the growing light and the warmth of community. Gabriel Schoening will share demonstrations of her transformational energy work with Matrix Energetics.
For more information, call 360-579-1763. All are welcome; donations appreciated.
WIWA hosts author reading
Peggy Shumaker will read and sign books at the Freeland Library, beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, April 18. For those with short work to share, a brief open mike period will follow.
Shumaker’s new book is “Just Breathe Normally,” from the University of Nebraska Press. She is also the author of several books.
From 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 19, Shumaker will conduct a workshop for writers hosted by the Whidbey Island Writers Association. Proceeds will be donated to Soundings Review, the new magazine from Whidbey Island Writers Association, debuting in September. Cost for the workshop is $40 for WIWA members, $50 for nonmembers.
Registrations must be received by April 15. Contact the WIWA office at 360-331-6714 or Marian Blue at blueyude@whidbey.com for info.
Learn defensive driving in Bayview
Register now for the AARP Defensive Driving Course, scheduled for Saturday, April 19 at the Bayview Senior Center.
The one-day course will be led by instructor Karen Bishop and will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and centers on the older driver, though there is no age limit for students. The cost is $10; bring a lunch.
For more information and to register, call the senior center at 331-1600 or 360-678-3373.
Institute needs helpers for spring workday
The Whidbey Institute at Chinook will hold a spring workday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 19.
Register by April 11 by e-mailing info@whidbeyinstitute.org or calling Laura at 341-1884.
Please mention if you have any special skills or are interested in a particular project. Free lodging and childcare can be provided if requested in advance. Lunch will also be provided.
Rescue group holds tack sale
Whidbey Island Rescue for Equines will be holding their annual tack sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 19 at 1258 Silver Lake Road in Oak Harbor.
Both new and used items will be available for purchase at discount prices.
For more information and/or directions, please contact Becky at 360-675-9252 or e-mail to montanya@whidbey.net
Whales Day returns to Langley
Join the Orca Network and Gary the Gray Whale for the fifth annual Welcome the Whales Day festival and parade from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 19, in Langley.
This event honors and celebrates the spring arrival of resident gray whales to Whidbey Island with fun and educational activities, music, presentations, and a parade of species featuring the handsome 20-foot gray whale Gary. Begin now to design your critter costume for the parade – or if you don’t have time to make a costume, come early in the day to create your costume before the parade.
The day begins with hands-on educational displays, costume-making, and kid’s activities at the Methodist Church Fellowship Hall (Third and Anthes streets), beginning at 10 a.m.
Staging for the “critter parade” begins at 12:45 p.m. in the parking lot at Cascade and Sixth Street. The parade begins at 1:30 p.m.
At 3 p.m., educational slide shows will be presented at the Methodist Church by Erin Falcone of Cascadia Research, and by Orca Network staff and Cindy Hansen of the Whale Museum. For more information, go to: http://orcanetwork.org/news/events.html or contact Orca Network at 360-678-3451 or info@orcanetwork.org.
Garden club holds spring plant sale
The Greenbank Garden Club will have a wide variety and selection of plants from member’s gardens at their annual spring sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 19 at Greenbank Farm.
There will be some vegetable starts this year, and future gardeners under the age of 12 will get a free plant. In addition, there will be a raffle, bake sale and garden related flea market.
Several members will be available to answer questions and the Whidbey Island Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society will showcase their rhodies and answer questions regarding rhododendrons and azaleas.
The Greenbank Garden Club supports projects that beautify Greenbank and surrounding communities through donations and membership participation.
Au Sable Institute hosts prairie tour
“Spring on the Prairie” will be held at the Au Sable Institute campus in Coupeville from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 19.
The event features guided prairie walks, artist demonstrations, entertainment and refreshments.
Au Sable Institute is located at 180 Parker Road, two miles south of Coupeville just off Highway 20.
Nordic Lodge gets special presentation
The Whidbey Island Nordic Lodge will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 19 in Coupeville.
The program include a DVD presentation on the George Marshall Plan and its affect upon Norway immediately following World War II and today.
Also to be discussed are plans for the annual Syttende Mai Celebration Dinner, to be held on May 16, in Coupeville.
For info call lodge president Dick Johnson at 360-678-4889.
Pick up pointers in the garden
Island County Master Gardeners will be holding plant clinics at the Coupeville Farmers Market and Wal-Mart in Oak Harbor from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 19. Stop by with your questions about plants and gardening problems.
Zydeco workshop and dance in Bayview
A Zydeco groove workshop and dance, featuring workshops with MaryLee Lykes and live music with Ken Pickard and the Zydeco Explosion is coming to Bayview Hall on Saturday, April 19.
Zydeco music and dance originates from the Creole culture in the Louisiana area. Lykes has danced with the locals in Louisiana and taught for many years. She is a longtime friend who truly understands the heart and soul of dance – and will help us all shake our booties!
The workshop is from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. and costs $20. Learn variations of one of the most fun dances on earth. (Afternoon participants may take the evening workshop for free.)
And evening pre-dance workshop on Zydeco basics will be held from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.; cost of the workshop is $5.
The dance is 8:30 to 11 p.m.; cost is $10 for adults, $7 for teens.
Lions hosts soup supper benefit
The Coupeville Lions Club is celebrating its third annual Coupeville High School scholarship fundraiser for the students, “Friends Forever,” from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at the Crocket Farm Barn.
The previous two auctions generated 22 scholarships totaling $21,600 given to Coupeville High School seniors thanks to the generosity of donated items purchased by the community and surrounding areas.
The fundraiser is “going local” with soups using locally grown ingredients. Hors d’oeuvre and wine are also included with the soup supper, plus salad and dessert purchased in the dessert auction.
Tickets are $25 each and available at Miriam’s Espresso Café or by calling Molly at 678-8312.
Passover seder on the first night
Join other Whidbey Island Jews in celebrating the Passover at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 19 in the Front Room upstairs at Bayview Corner.
Bring your own place settings (plate, bowl, silverware, cup, etc.) and a potluck dish and wine or grape juice for kiddush. Tablecloths and separate serving tables for vegetarian, dairy and meat will be provided.
Please RSVP with Stefan and Heidi at stefans@whidbey.com or 321-5206. Donations are also requested to cover expenses.
The gathering is sponsored by the Whidbey Island Jewish Community; visit www.whidbeyjews.org for info.
Earth Day celebration at Bayview Corner
The second annual Earth Day festival will take place at Bayview Corner from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 20. The celebration includes an art show, children’s activities, live music and poetry, and how-to workshops and demonstrations on such topics as rainwater management, composting, green transportation, solar greenhouses, wind turbine energy, passive solar energy, earth building, and more.
The festival will also feature keynote speaker Vicki Robin speaking on “Less, Local, and Love: Three Keys to a Rosy Green Future.” She is a co-founder of Transition Whidbey, a group seeking to catalyze the community on Whidbey Island to achieve greater food, fuel, energy and economic self-reliance.
Local painter Rob Schouten will guide the creation of a temporary mandala made from natural objects brought by participants, and more than a dozen local and national groups will host information tables.
“Celebrating our Earth with Art,” an art show by community members of all ages, disciplines, and artistic experience and skills will be on view throughout the Cash Store, April 16-23.
Admission is free and event takes place rain or shine. Please call 321-4145 for further information.
Preschool hosts open house
The South Whidbey Co-Op Preschool is now enrolling new students will have an open house during the week of April 21-25 for parents with preschool-aged children who want to drop by and see how the classroom operates. Visitors can speak with participating students, parents and teachers.
Toddler class (ages 18 months to 3 years) meets from 9:15 to 11:45 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday mornings. The preschool class (ages 3 to 5) meets from 9:15 to 11:45 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings.
Call 221-5080 or visit www.southwhidbeycooppreschool.org for more information.
Parks to hold Earth Day work party
The South Whidbey Parks & Recreation District will host an Earth Day work party on the Trustland Trails property.
The work day will run from noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22. Anyone interested in helping should arrive at the Craw Road and Highway 525 access point at noon for a kick-off lunch that will be provided by the parks district.
Volunteers will clear brush and create a handicapped-accessible loop trail.
Over the years the access connection — formerly the old highway — has been used as an illegal dumping site. Many piles of garbage have accumulated and the parks district needs help to collect and dispose of the debris.
Volunteers should come prepared for physical labor and fun with friends and neighbors. Bring gloves, tools, sturdy shoes, eye protection, ear protection, power equipment and bottled water.
For more information, call 221-5484.
Grief recovery group to meet
A new biblical-based support group for those who have suffered a loss; death, job, relationship, etc. will start meeting twice a month.
The group is open to the community and will meet from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays at Langley CMA Church. The group meets again on April 23.
Marisa LaRue will facilitate the group. For info, call the church office at 221-6980 or LaRue at 579-2348.
The church is at Sixth and Cascade streets in Langley.
Read to Roxie at the Clinton Library
Kids are welcome to come to the Clinton Library to meet and read to Roxie, a graduate of the Love on a Leash program, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, April 24.
Beginning readers are encouraged to come practice their reading skills with this friendly dog.
Good food and a good time
“Good Food,” the latest film from Whidbey producers Melissa Young and Mark Dworkin, will premier at the Seattle International Film Festival in June. People on South Whidbey can preview excerpts of the film at a benefit at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 24, at the Mukilteo Coffee Company.
These clips will screen together with Young and Dworkin’s recently released “Argentina Turning Around,” a followup to their award winning Argentina-Hope in “Hard Times.” Come help celebrate the revival of local sustainable farming in the Pacific Northwest and the beginning of the new growing season. Local farmers will bring some of their earliest spring greens for a mini-market that evening in anticipation of the opening of the Tilth Farmers Market May 3.
Mukilteo Coffee Company is at 5331 Crawford Road in Langley. The suggested minimum donation is $10.
Contributions to the nonprofit Moving Images will help pay off some of the debts, including music rights, incurred from creating “Good Food.” Some of the music in the film is from Whidbey musicians Jack Knauer, Fredde Butterworth and Tom Hoeflich.
Learn to sign with your baby
Nancy Hanauer will talk on signing with your baby at 11 a.m. Friday, April 25 at the Freeland Library.
The presentation will include hands-on experience and basic instruction for hearing families interested in signing with their babies to aid early communication and reduce frustration. Participants will learn helpful hints for getting started and how to incorporate sign into their daily lives.
Learn to make artsy mini books
Nancy Hanauer will show how to make artsy mini blank books during a class at 2:30 p.m. Friday, April 25 at the Langley Library.
Create one of many artistic blank books with Hanauer as a guide through the process. For ages 10 and up. Registration is required; please call the Langley Library at 221-4383.
Therapeutic Touch workshop in Freeland
A basic-level workshop on Therapeutic Touch, the Krieger-Kunz Method, will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, April 25, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 26 at The Chiropractic Zone in Freeland.
Therapeutic Touch is based on the belief that a human being is a complex system of energies: disease / disorder may occur when there is congestion, depletion and/or imbalance of energy. Therapeutic Touch begins with compassion and each treatment is given with the conscious intent to help a person re-pattern energy.
The workshop will be presented by Cathy Fanslow-Brunjes. She has presented workshops nationally and internationally for more than 30 years.
Register by April 18; for information call 331-5565.
Dance theatre presents annual showcase
Whidbey Island Dance Theatre features the talents of both its dancers and choreographers in their annual spring Dance & Choreography Showcase at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26 at South Whidbey High School.
Beyond the production’s yearly treats, special features this year include excerpts from Swan Lake, and guest performances by Peninsula Dance Theatre and by soloist Danielle Wilkins.
WIDT company dancers will perform several excerpts from Swan Lake, staged by internationally acclaimed dancer and teacher Leigh-Ann Cohen and by ballet critic and author Dean Speer. Three premiere works by Whidbey and Seattle area choreographers are also set to be performed by the company; dance genres include ballet, modern dance, and jazz.
WIDT is a regional level dance company, co-directed by Charlene Brown, founder, and Susan Campbell Sandri.
Tickets are $18 for adults and $10 for youth under 18 years of age. Buy tickets online at www.widtonline.org, or call the WIDT Box Office at 341-2221 to order tickets by phone. Tickets will also be available at the door for both performances.
Master Gardeners offer helpful tips
Island County Master Gardeners will be holding plant clinics at the Coupeville Farmers Market and Wal-Mart in Oak Harbor from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 26. Stop by with your questions about plants and gardening problems.
See Saturn and the heavens at star party
The Island County Astronomical Society will host a star party when it gets dark on Saturday, April 26, at Fort Nugent Park, 2075 SW Fort Nugent Road, Oak Harbor.
Explore the night sky and view Saturn, distant galaxies and nebulas at this free event. No telescope is needed and people of all ages are welcome to attend. Please note that the event will be canceled if the weather is cloudy.
For more information, contact Dan Pullen at 360-679-7664 or e-mail icaspub@juno.com, or visit http://groups.msn.com/WashingtonICAS.
Recycling is topic of green program
Ted Clifton, a certified green builder and “Green Built” instructor, will give a presentation on recycling from the job site at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 29 at Skagit Valley College-Oak Harbor Campus, Room 137 – Hayes Hall. Nicole Luce, who just finished as the project manager of her own green home, will share her experience and list of resources for the homeowner.
This is part of a monthly series of seminars on Sustainable Living sponsored by the city of Oak Harbor, WSU Extension and the Whidbey Island Conservation District.
For more information visit www.oakharbor.org or contact Maribeth Crandell at 360-279-4762 or mcrandell@oakharbor.org.
Program to benefit Sack Lunch
“Sound, Music and Healing” with Beverly Graham is coming Tuesday, April 29.
As a shaman initiate, Graham combines her skills as a Sound Healer, Intuitive and energy healer to explore how individuals can heal through the use of vibrational and melodic soundings. As a performing artist/musician, she has extensive experience in sacred settings including healing, death and rebirth.
Proceeds will benefit Operation: Sack Lunch. Call The Chiropractic Zone in Freeland to reserve your seat at 331-5565.
Whidbey lecture series continues
The Whidbey Institute at Chinook is joining with the Institute for Children’s Environmental Health to present the 2008 Environmental Health Lecture Series, “Our Health, Our Environment: Making the Link: Connecting Economics with Health and the Environment.”
This year’s series examines the relationship between the natural world, human society and our economic system, focusing on ecological economics, a growing transdisciplinary field which expands economic theory to integrate the earth’s natural systems, human values and health.
The series continues with “Economics for the 21st Century: Creating a Collective Vision for a Sustainable Future” with Dr. Joshua Farley, professor of Community Development and Applied Economics at the Gund Institute at the University of Vermont.
The lecture is 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 30 and is preceded by a reception from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Advance tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door.
For information, visit www.iceh.org or call 331-7904.
Island Coffee hosts poetry reading
Come listen to the “Song Of The Chalice” poetry reading from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Island Coffee House & Books.
The subjects will be entirely feminine, as will all the readers. Come to listen to featured local poets and bring one of your favorite poems if you’d like to read during the open mic.
All ages are welcome, and the event is free. Coffee beverages and pastries will be available for purchase.
Island Coffee House & Books is located at 124 Second St., Langley. For more information, contact Rob Harrison at 221-8918.
Workshops at Whidbey Institute
“From Heartache to Belonging” will be presented from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at Whidbey Institute.
Utilizing wood and fiber sculptures by artist/mythologist Penelope Stuart Bourk, these three days of reflection are designed to enter more deeply into discussions about what it means to get home and to feel “at home” — or not — in a rapidly changing world.
Days of Reflection costs $65; register at www.whidbeyinstitute.org, or call 341-1884.
Register now for women’s growth workshop
Ready for individual growth and development? Grab a sack lunch and enjoy a day of fun, chocolate and creative expression during an expressive arts workshop coming to Fort Casey Inn on Saturday, May 3.
Margaret Potchatek and Jeanine Hillman will lead a workshop called “Women Seeking Personal Authenticity” — a journey toward discovering and reclaiming one’s forgotten, more authentic selves. The group will splash paint, play with collage, pound clay, and drum as they move along the path toward self-discovery.
The workshop includes a one-hour personal coaching session, continental breakfast and afternoon chocolates, and art supplies.
For more information or to register, visit www.authenticityworkshop.com or call Margaret Potchatek at 360-678-1030, ext. 2.
Jewish Community hosts Shabbat potluck
The Whidbey Island Jewish Community will hold a Shabbat potluck at 6 p.m. Friday, May 16 at the home of Stephen and Susan Bennett in Freeland.
Please bring finger food appetizers and dessert. The group will bless the Sabbath candles, wine and bread, and expect a quiet evening of enjoyable discussion. Please respond to 331-4779 before May 12.
Archetypal Healing session in Freeland
A workshop on “Archetypal Healing” with Ann Amberg, Jeff Weeks and Patricia Rohan is coming to Freeland on Tuesday, May 13.
Developed in Europe as a holistic healing system, this paradigm works with sacred geometry and energetic forms to facilitate healing on mental, physical and spiritual levels while working to shift distorted individual patterns on subtle energetic levels. These altered states may have been induced through stress, traumas and diseases such as cancer. This work has been found to restore a sense of harmony and re-alignment.
Proceeds benefit Enso House. Call The Chiropractic Zone in Freeland to reserve your seat at 331-5565.
Expert describes Matrix Energetics
“Matrix Energetics” with Reggi Shelley, founder of Alchemy Wisdom in Seattle, will be held Tuesday, May 27 at the Chiropractic Zone in Freeland.
Shelley is one of Dr. Richard Bartlett’s (the developer of Matrix Energetics) two primary instructors. Her training includes holographic energy work and shamanic work. Matrix Energetics is a pathway of transformation that uses the power of focused intent to heal, transform and create possibilities that affects and produces lasting transformation changes in all areas of ones life. She will also be available for private sessions throughout this day.
Proceeds will benefit Helping Hand. Call The Chiropractic Zone at 331-5565 to reserve your seat.
Workshops cover our sustainability
The Whidbey Institute at Chinook will host a year of hands-on workshops and walks devoted to practical sustainability.
Eric Conn and Britt Walker, co-directors of the Sustainability Research and Education Project, will lead the sessions.
Follow the seasons of the year with these workshops and walks that focus on appreciating what nature has to offer; learn about foraging native plants, growing your own food and solar cooking.
On May 31 is “The Abundance of the Earth.” On Aug. 16 is “The Harvest Season.” On Oct. 4 is “Rest & Renewal.”
The fee is $25 for a session, $80/year or $10/session for under 21.
For information about these workshops, visit www.whidbey
institute.org or call 341-1884.
Learn mandala creation in Freeland
Sarah Manchester will host a session of “Mandala Creation and Art Therapy” on Tuesday, June 10 at the Chiropractic Zone in Freeland.
Manchester will lead a journey of Meditative Mandala creation to explore our own personal “soul drawing.” As a therapist and painter, she works with adolescents and adults, combining the best of Western psychology and Eastern contemplative and meditative traditions. She emphasizes our inherent wisdom and creativity to encourage greater health and wholeness.
Proceeds will benefit The South Whidbey Commons. Call The Chiropractic Zone at 331-5565 to reserve your seat.
Expert leads talk on animal communication
Jacqueline Sowell will lead a session on animal communication on Tuesday, June 24 at The Chiropractic Zone in Freeland.
Experience animal communication first-hand. Sowell will answer common questions about animal communication through a beginning exercise in telepathy. She will discuss how professional animal communicators help modify problems and end-of-life choices as well as enhance your relationship with your animal companion.
Sowell is a certified professional animal communicator, Theta Healing instructor/practitioner and Matrix Energetics practitioner.
Proceeds will benefit FETCH. Call The Chiropractic Zone in Freeland to reserve your seat at 331-5565.
New series starts at Whidbey Institute
“Learning from the Land” will be presented from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday afternoons at the Whidbey Institute.
What does it mean to “learn from the land” at Chinook? Will it harm or enhance our experience to learn the names of the plants and animals that live there?
Institute naturalists will explore these and other questions in a series of walks together on the land, followed by tea and reflective conversation.
“If Henry Were Here: Seeing Chinook through Thoreau’s eyes” is June 25.
The series will be led by Larry Daloz, senior fellow of the Whidbey Institute and Kathryn O’Brien, a naturalist and horticulturist of the natural world. To register, call 341-1884.
Registration starts for annual gathering
The 12th Annual Touch Drawing Gathering with Deborah Koff-Chapin will be held July 13-18.
Do you feel inspired to delve into your soul through Touch Drawing? Do you feel called to share it with others? The gathering provides a deep portal to the soul. It is a creative intensive oriented to people with a strong sense of purpose and emotional maturity. Together we generate a resonant field that enlivens us as well as the heart of Touch Drawing.
Registration is now open. For info visit www.touchdrawing.com.
Classes give tips on growing dahlias
Swede Hill Farm is offering a three-season “School for Dahlia Gardening” for those who want vigorous and more prolific dahlias.
The summer season class, “Growing, Tending and Harvesting Dahlias Made Easy,” is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2. The fall season class, “Digging, Dividing and Storing Dahlias Made Easy,” is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13.
Instructor John Willson, the head gardener and caretaker of the Swede Hill Dahlia Sunflower Farm, will offer a decade of practical dahlia gardening and greenhouse “how to do its” for all experience levels.
For information or to register, call 579-2590 or e-mail jwillson@whidbey.com.
Wine Walkabout helps FETCH!
FETCH!, Free Exercise Time for Canines and Their Humans, presents its fourth annual Wine Walkabout from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9 at the Buchanan Vineyard, off Bayview Road in Langley.
The day will be filled with exceptional wines, delicious food, friends old and new, live music and, of course, canines.
Tasting tables will be set around the charming grounds of Buchanan’s vineyard showcasing five wines: Bohemian Highway, Barnard Griffin, Penfolds, Goats de Roam and Rosenblum Cellars. Palates will be also be treated to gourmet cheeses, breads, nuts, chocolate and fruit. And the dogs won’t be left out of the fun, either. Homemade gourmet dog treats and bowls of cool fresh water will be readily available at all tables.
The event benefits FETCH! a grassroots not-for-profit organization which established and maintains Whidbey’s five off-leash parks. The cost is $20 per person in advance or $25 per person at the door, humans 21 or older only please.
Tickets are available at Violet Fields, Bayview Arts, Vino d’ Amoré and The Bayleaf. Check the FETCH! Website for links and further details at www.fetchparks.org or contact Patricia Buchanan at 321-2377 or fetch@whidbey.com.
Fiber sale comes to Clinton
The Whidbey Island Fabulous Fall Fiber Sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20.
Whidbey Island fiber producers will offer fleece and fiber from locally raised llama, alpaca, many breeds of sheep and pygora goats as well as handmade products including handspun yarns and felted, woven, braided and silk-painted items at 4081 Springwater Lane, Clinton. There will also be sheep skins, books, supplies, class information, orders for freezer lamb and raw lamb dog food and more.
