Lighthouse Mission Ministries is opening an 80-bed emergency homeless shelter in Bellingham on Oct. 17, responding to the community’s increasing homeless population just as cold weather approaches.
Lighthouse Mission Ministries is converting its daytime Drop-In Center at 1013 W Holly St. to also serve as an overnight emergency shelter for up to 80 men. Emergency shelter guests will be asked to follow some basic behavioral expectations and accommodations will be made for people who have pets. As with most Mission programs, there are no religious requirements to receive services.
Lighthouse Mission Ministries has been serving the Whatcom County community since 1923. Photo courtesy: Lighthouse Mission Ministries.
“An easy-access shelter is Bellingham’s most pressing need when it comes to our most vulnerable populations,” said Hans Erchinger-Davis, Executive Director of Lighthouse Mission Ministries. “This will be the first step for many people who are chronically homeless. The goal is to get them into the Mission’s continuum of care and out of homelessness.”
According to the 2016 Whatcom County Homeless Census in January, 719 homeless individuals were counted, a number steadily rising since 493 were counted in 2012. Also, the number of unsheltered households soared 40 percent since 2015.
The Mission’s Drop-In Center opened in 2008, giving guests a warm and dry place to spend afternoons while giving them a chance to connect with other service organizations. Previously operating from 12:30 – 5 p.m. weekdays, the Drop-In Center will be open 24 hours a day, every day starting Oct. 17 to people who are homeless. Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served.
Erchinger-Davis said use of the Drop-In Center as an emergency shelter is a temporary solution and Lighthouse Mission Ministries is seeking a more suitable long-term location.
The annual cost of operating the emergency shelter is estimated at $200,000. Lighthouse Mission Ministries, a privately funded, local 501(c)(3) organization, is seeking donations from individuals, faith communities, clubs, and organizations to cover the additional expenses.
“Whatcom County has been generous in supporting the Mission and I hope that continues as we take a step of faith to meet this serious need,” Erchinger-Davis said. “Donations to Lighthouse Mission Ministries provide ‘wrap-around’ services that cultivate healing and total life transformation.”
Lighthouse Mission Ministries also will continue to operate a 40-bed emergency shelter in its chapel. The space was previously used by both men and women, but now it is just for women, resulting in a total of 120 Lighthouse Mission emergency shelter beds.
Lighthouse Mission Ministries has been helping people who are homeless since 1923. It serves more than 300 hot meals daily and already had been providing shelter for approximately 150 men, women and children each day. To make donations or learn more about its services, call 360-733-5120, or visit www.thelighthousemission.org.
Many of the films are sponsored by local organizations or businesses that host pre-screening info sessions or post-screening Q & A discussions with local experts. Photo credit: Daisey James.
Many of us love movies because they are a temporary escape from reality. But documentary film is its own art form, instead showing us a glimpse of the real world, of people and places we might not otherwise experience, through the eye of the filmmaker. These films take us on far away journeys, perhaps to the bottom of the ocean, to the top of a mountain, and into the lives of strangers. Each October since 2008, Pickford Film Center (PFC) has celebrated the art of documentary filmmaking with their curated Doctober film festival, this year sharing more than 50 films throughout the month. The subjects range widely, from environmental and human rights issues throughout the world to arts and music. A few are presented in partnership with Whatcom County organizations that aim to raise awareness and inform local audiences.
Many of the films are sponsored by local organizations or businesses that host pre-screening info sessions or post-screening Q & A discussions with local experts. Photo credit: Daisey James.
“We encourage our patrons to suggest films to us throughout the year, but for the most part, our programming team, led by Program Director Michael Falter, seeks out our selected films,” explains Pickford Marketing Manager Lindsey Gerhard of how films are chosen. For some of the films with a narrow subject, the Pickford has partnered with a local organization with a similar niche audience to help promote the film. Many will offer pre-screening receptions or be followed by a panel discussion, local expert question and answer sessions, and filmmaker visits afterward to extend the film’s impact. “Our audience really likes when we can connect Doctober films to something at the local level,” adds Gerhard. “There are a lot of surprising connections between what we see in these films and what’s happening here in our town. Our audiences can learn how our community is dealing with that issue.”
Other films in this year’s selection are more serious. “We have a number of very thought-provoking films about serious issues like gun control and prison reform,” says Gerhard.
Although each film is unique, many of the films fall into a group or category. Of course we can’t include them all here, but we’ve sprinkled some to give you just a taste of Doctober.
Our Fascination with Animals
A number of films focus on our furry and feathered friends or the wild ones we rescue. From funny to touching, there is something for most any animal lover to enjoy.
An ancient free-roaming feline population of Istanbul are the subject of the documentary “Kedi.” Photo courtesy: Pickford Film Center.
Yes, our culture is obsessed with cats. Kedi is not about your typical house cat, but instead about the generations of felines that have wandered freely in Istanbul, owned by no one and somewhere between wild and tame.
For the horse-lover, Harry and the Snowman follows the journey of the post-World War II relationship between a Dutch immigrant and the rescued Amish plow horse that went on to win the triple crown of show jumping.
S.M.A.R.T. follows people who put the lives of animals before their own, the Los Angeles’ Specialized Mobile Animal Rescue Team, as they save stranded and injured animals from the most harrowing of situations.
Seasons [Le Saison] is a French film that travels throughout Europe to film brown bears, wild horses, wolves, and other animals in their natural habitat.
The PFC wouldn’t leave out our insect friends either. Mindport will host a pre-screening reception with live insect demonstrations as they sponsor Learning to See, a film about a photographer who spent his life capturing images of undiscovered insects of the Amazon rain forest.
Music and the Arts
A number of films of Doctober involve makers, crafters, and artisans, including “Yarn” about artists that redefine the role of knit and crochet in the modern world. Photo credit: Pickford Film Center.
Sunday mornings in October will feature documentaries about a range of subjects connected to the genre of Jazz including Sound of Redemption: The Frank Morgan Story about a musician and the band he formed while in San Quentin prison that went on to fame in the Bay area of San Francisco.
Women’s Issues
A number of films focus on women and the struggles they face. Every Row A Path focuses on five teenage Skagit Valley women in migrant agricultural worker families who must balance school, work, and relationships in rural America.
Speed Sistersfocuses on the first all-woman race car driving team in the Middle East.
On Being Human
“What Tomorrow Brings” follows the first girls to attend school in a small Afghan village. Photo courtesy: Pickford Film Center.
There are many more films than we can include here on a variety of subjects including sustainable agriculture, the environment, and living and dying on our planet. Peruse the full list to find your favorites.
PFC is also expanding their broad education program again this year with their Doc-Ed Program which will invite every middle school student in Whatcom County to attend a Doctober film chosen by their teachers. “We worked hard to fundraise so that we can provide transportation and free attendance to all students at no cost to parents or teachers,” notes Gerhard. Middle school students will see one of three films chosen for their age appropriateness and relevance in the lives of young teens. Each film will also be available for screening by the general public.
What Tomorrow Brings follows the lives of the first class of girls allowed to attend school in a small Afghan village from 2009 to 2015. “Historically, the education of women there has been frowned upon,” adds Gerhard. “We’re offering a range of choices to teachers.” Their third option is Elder in the Making, a film set in the Aboriginal communities of Alberta, reviewing how history has led them to where they are today.
The documentary “Prison Dogs” highlights a program where inmates train service dogs for disabled veterans. Photo credit: Peggy Vance.
None of the film’s show times overlap, so it is possible that one could see all 50. The PFC’s Doctober Challenge punch card will allow anyone seeing more than eight documentaries to win secret, exclusive Doctober prizes, some of which will go on display in the PFC lobby once Doctober is underway. “Every year we have one or two people who try to see them all. It’s pretty impressive,” adds Gerhard. “Another way to save while supporting the theater is by becoming a PFC Member to receive big discounts on ticket prices over general admission.”
Laura Bedford, with Surrey, during her incredible walking journey across America. Photo courtesy: Laura Bedford.
Laura Bedford lives by the words, “inner peace and joy are always within us.”
Laura recently completed an incredible walking journey across the United States starting in Bellingham and ending in Charleston, South Carolina. Her mission was to raise awareness about the inner peace and joy within us.
Wearing a shirt that said “Walking Coast to Coast Supporting Inner Peace and Healing for Grown-ups, Kids and Horses,” Laura encountered the best humanity can offer anyone. And, in the spirit of what a pilgrimage is and represents, Laura found that everything she needed was provided along the way, leaving Bellingham with only what she could carry.
The Beginning
“I’ve always had big questions since I was young, having a first mystical experience, which ended when I was five,” says Laura of her life experiences and desire to pursue this purpose-based journey. “No one I knew talked about such things.”
Laura Bedford, with Surrey, during her incredible walking journey across America. Photo courtesy: Laura Bedford.
When her burning questions could no longer be contained, she began a very intentional search for information in her late 20’s. Eventually, the story of a woman named Peace Pilgrim who walked the planet over a period of 28 years came to Laura’s attention. After Peace’s death, many of her fans and followers had written a book on her experiences based on her writings and notes. When this book crossed Laura’s path, the idea took hold.
“I read this book and the idea felt like home,” says Laura. “We all have what we need within. We don’t have to make peace. It’s already there.”
This idea of raising our own self-awareness and trusting that natural, innate expanded awareness is part of the journey to realizing that inner peace is already within us. It’s not a surrender of who we are but a surrender of thoughts that make up our ego. It’s being comfortable with the unknown.
Laura says that, as a child and to this day, she does not discount her own awareness of the vibrational nature of thoughts and feelings, even though, as a child she wasn’t verbalizing this awareness. She didn’t necessarily know what to do about it.
The People. The Community.
Laura recalls a part of her pilgrimage that has special meaning. East of the Wenatchee River, in very hot weather and a long walk up hill, a man in a pick up truck stopped to see if she needed anything.
“No thanks,” Laura recalls responding to the man.
Laura found that everything she needed was provided along the way, leaving Bellingham with only what she could carry. Photo courtesy: Laura Bedford.
The next day, a woman stopped. “My husband told me about you last night and said if I saw you I should give you some water,” the woman said. “I’ll stop on my way back to give you some more.”
Laura realized, after discussion, she had taken a wrong turn and was far from her walking route. The woman took her to her home where she had lunch and ultimately stayed overnight with the family. She experienced life on a farm for a night and even had the opportunity to ride a combine, something she’d never done.
The next day, the family got her back on her route wishing her well on her journey.
Laura also describes an experience that involved a question of safety in a part of the route where many trucks were hauling gravel from a nearby quarry.
“What I knew was that I had to walk it,” says Laura of the experience. “I didn’t approach it in fear. I made sure that I waved with a huge smile to every trucker that drove by. As the day wore on, the truckers were honking and waving at me. When we show up in this space of love and light, we find the world responds to that.”
“You get to see how much of the world doesn’t revolve around you,” says Laura when she realized that many times cars, especially trucks, were simply stopping on the side of the road and not for her or anything to do with her.
A truly special moment for Laura happened while walking in Alabama. Visiting with a man curious about what she was doing, she noticed his litter of puppies that he said had never been handled by a human. One of the puppies came to Laura and allowed her to pick him up. There was a connection as Laura observed the puppy turning his head to the sun.
“It was a moment I can’t explain,” Laura says of the encounter.
A connection was created with, Surrey, Laura Bedford’s walking companion. Photo courtesy: Laura Bedford.
Laura stayed on the man’s property that night. Through the rest of the day and next morning, Laura observed the puppy seemingly less energetic than his three brothers. She wondered if he was sick.
“I knew what having a puppy would mean,” she said. “I decided I would only take him if he followed me down the long driveway when I left. He followed me.”
The puppy, named Surrey, short for Surrender Into Peace, became her walking companion, riding in a jogging stroller Laura picked up along the way.
Laura’s destination in Charleston took her to the very same church where nine people had been killed by one individual.
“The mission of the pilgrimage supporting inner peace and healing is to expand awareness regarding the fact that inner peace is within us,” she explains. “That young man, and any who act out, that killed those nine people was in a thought-feeling energy pain and trying to rid himself of that inner pain by projecting onto others. Suppressing pain within, without the tools for dealing with it and healing it, leads to the appearance of difficult experiences the world over.”
Laura believes that, while this journey was a pilgrimage by definition, life is truly a pilgrimage. Working with others, she demonstrates the effects of vibrations and energies directly related to the types of thinking and thoughts, negative and positive, that people have.
“Pause and focus on your breath,” she says when we feel a trigger or any thoughts from fear to love. “Inquire within. Who is thinking this thought?”
When we ask that question the first response that comes to mind is usually ME. This “me” that responds is always our ego, our personal self of self. This self is not our true self. Laura the explains that our ego isn’t bad, it’s simply not aware of the truth but only perceptions.
Laura suggests following the pointing of enlightened masters to “be still and know I AM.” In being still and deeply relaxing beyond the initial response, a thought or feeling that does not feel uplifting will fade because, as Laura explains, it is not a true thought, only a perception. Being still and relaxing within opens a space within our awareness for expanding our perception.
For Laura, her pilgrimage continues with a new name, “Walkabout the World Supporting Inner Peace and Healing Joy for Grown-ups, Kids and Horses.”
Laura will be speaking further about this journey and beyond on November 20 at Wise Awakening in downtown Bellingham.
Fanatik Bike Co. sells a number of boutique brands of bike you won't easily find elsewhere. Photo credit: Lauren Kramer.
Fifteen years ago Bellingham residents Mark and Kathy Salisbury were having to cross the border way too often to purchase the high-end mountain bikes their teenager loved. An avid mountain biker, their son could not find good mountain bikes in the city – until his parents decided to open shop.
Staff at Bellingham’s Fanatik Bike Co. are friendly and knowledgeable. Photo credit: Lauren Kramer.
That was 2005, and since then their store, Fanatik Bike Co., has moved from its original location to a 7,000-square-foot store on North State Street, where it sells brands including Norco, Evil, Ibis, Intense, Santa Cruz, DaVinci and Banshee. Two brands you won’t find there are Trek and Giant, and there’s a good reason, said Luke DeMoe, operations manager.
“Those two companies require that bike shops stock a certain number of their bikes, but we don’t believe in having our store owned by the bike company,” he explained. “We pick what we want to sell in our store, because that’s what we believe our customers want.”
Fanatik’s 17 staff members are very particular about which products are sold in the store and insist on only selling those products they would personally use and that they stand behind. Customers are a mix of bike enthusiasts and hard-core bikers, but Fanatik’s niche is ‘dream bikes,’ or custom high-end mountain bikes.
The store sells ‘soft goods’ including helmets, biking apparel and accessories. Photo credit: Lauren Kramer.
For many mountain bike enthusiasts the world over, buying a ready-made bike is not an option because they want to pick and choose the particular bike parts they prefer. Fanatik’s online presence gives them the opportunity to do so, at prices that range from $6,500 up to $12,000. That represents half the company’s business and Fanatik is no stranger to shipping bikes as far as Australia and Costa Rica on a regular basis.
“We allow people to pick and choose every possible component of the bike, down to every color,” DeMoe said. “These folks are looking for high-end components and 30 percent of them know exactly what they want. The remainder call us for advice.” For sure, it’s significantly more expensive to customize your bike than to buy it ready-made. The average price of Fanatik’s 300 in-store bikes is $3,500 and Norco is the top seller among them.
The shop has a snack license that allows it to sell beer in bottles or cans. Photo credit: Lauren Kramer.
It’s a social place. The Fanatik Bike Co. floor and the company’s snack bar license allows customers to hang out, drink a beer with friends and chat to staff about their bikes. The store offers classes on bike maintenance and Friday night bike rides for all levels of bikers. “It’s a no-drop group ride, which means we regroup every few minutes and all skill levels are welcome,” he added.
Bike purchasing can be daunting, given that you only know what you like after you’ve ridden it – at which point returns are too late. Fanatik has solved this predicament with its demo bikes, a program through which customers are allowed to take bikes out on a rental basis and try them. Rental fees are credited back towards the bike they purchase once they’ve made their selection.
Some bike shops can be intimidating places but at Fanatik the staff are friendly, well-informed and happy to help change a punctured tire, often at no cost. This is a Made-In-Bellingham store defined by passion and a deep respect for the sport of biking. Visit and no doubt you’ll feel the urge to head out on two wheels more often.
Fanatik Bike Co is a fixture on N. State Street in Bellingham. Photo credit: Lauren Kramer.
Fanatik Bike Co.
1812 N. State Street in Bellingham
Open Monday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Connect on Facebook with Fanatik Bike Co.
Harcourt Developments, the development partner for 19 acres on Bellingham’s downtown waterfront, announced plans this week to build four large-scale projects within the next several years.
Harcourt is currently renovating the iconic Granary Building and plans to start construction on waterfront condominiums with underground parking as early as next year. Additional projects soon to follow include a “Gateway” commercial office building near the Granary building, a retirement and assisted living complex, and the potential conversion of Georgia Pacific’s former Boardmill building into a hotel and conference center. The Boardmill project would require Port Commission approval to adjust the boundary of a redevelopment area currently reserved for Western Washington University.
“Harcourt has a strong reputation for developing successful projects around the world and we are excited to see their level of commitment to Bellingham’s waterfront” said Port Executive Director Rob Fix. “The mix of uses Harcourt is proposing will create jobs, increase property values and help rebuild our waterfront economy. The Port is already seeing increased interest from the business community in expanding to the waterfront to be near an increasingly vibrant downtown core.”
In a presentation to the Port Commission, Director of Harcourt Developments Pat Power detailed their involvement in several projects similar to Bellingham’s waterfront including the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool, England and Park West, Ireland’s largest business park. Mr. Power emphasized the importance of parks and public art to Harcourt projects as well as their experience recruiting new companies and creating jobs. “Public art is something we like to do because what we try to do is create an environment where people can live, work and play but also enjoy their surroundings. Park West is a vibrant place with over 300 companies from a standing start. There are a lot of things we can draw upon from Park West that will favor Bellingham in terms of attracting companies into the region.”
Harcourt’s long-term vision for the downtown waterfront will require an adjustment to the layout of streets and parks planned for the future. Harcourt plans to work with the Port and City to amend the waterfront Sub-Area plan beginning in April 2017 in a public process anticipated to last about a year.
The Port recently finished the environmental cleanup work necessary to support mixed-use development in the downtown waterfront. The Granary Building, as well as the first waterfront road and park, are on track to be open to the public next year.
The Broadway musical, "Mamma Mia!" is set on a Greek island paradise and features classic ABBA songs. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
Seeing a Broadway show is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and we’re fortunate to have access to them at Whatcom County’s Mount Baker Theatre (MBT). But have you ever wondered how they accomplish each extravagant show while traveling from city to city each night across the nation? Mount Baker Theatre’s Facilities Director, Jim Zoehrer, helped us put together a glimpse into what it takes to pull off a hit Broadway show in an active theater in just 24 hours.
Around 3:00 a.m.
Lead Tech Randy Storms (right) is Mount Baker Theatre’s resident lighting expert and supervises the lighting hang before the show. Photo credit: Damian Vines Photography.
To take the incredible high-quality musical, dance, and dramatic spectacles that have appeared on Broadway on the road, you have to get up pretty early in the morning—or stay up pretty late—depending on how you look at it.
“A typical Broadway show will arrive in the middle of the night with one to four 53-foot semi-trucks and one to three tour busses,” explains Zoehrer. “The cast will head to nearby hotel rooms while crew will catch a couple of hours sleep in the busses before beginning the ‘Load In’ process.”
7:30 a.m. – Load In
About 60 local stage crew including carpenters, electricians, and riggers that have been hired by the MBT arrive and work together with the six to twelve traveling Road Crew to mark out the floor, begin unloading and installing the semi-trucks full of rigging, stage lighting, set walls and backdrops, and flooring that is unique to each show. “We have a list of about 300 crew that live and work between Bellingham and Seattle that we can call to work on a show. They all also work at other theaters as well so not everyone is available,” explains Zoehrer. “The number we hire depends on how large the show is. I exhaust my local people first before calling Seattle.”
The Broadway musical, “Mamma Mia!” is set on a Greek island paradise and features classic ABBA songs. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
Between four and ten wardrobe technicians will launder and repair costumes, shoes, and wigs.
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
At the lunch break, two-thirds of the local crew will depart, returning later after the show is over to help break down the show or ‘Load Out.’ The other third, or Show Crew, remain to continue Load In. “Lights are focused, hand props are laid out, they’ll fine tune the fly and rigging systems, and get the sound system dialed in,” explains Zoehrer. “You wouldn’t believe it, but with all that crew, the entire show is set up in about six or seven hours.”
6:00 p.m. – Show Time
After a dinner break, the Sound Technicians and Show and Road Crews return and the cast, music director, and orchestra show up for a sound check. “The Production Stage Manager works with the leads and the cast to make sure the microphones work properly and that everyone is clear about any changes to the show,” notes Zoehrer. “These shows play at venues of all sizes so each show is a little different and those details need to be worked out on a daily basis for local conditions. MBT is the right size for a three-and-a-half to four truck show, but we often get five truck shows.” Some shows like Beauty and the Beast and Hair had an entire semi-truck full of wardrobe and wigs. “Some things are stored in the alley or we find room. We do Tetris here,” chuckles Zoehrer.
Broadway show, “Once” transports us to the streets of modern day Dublin, Ireland so that we may experience a musical love story. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
Cast will begin hair and makeup preparations and do any last minute adjustments to costumes.
Around 6:30 p.m. everyone goes into ‘Show Mode.’ Crew get their ‘Tracks’ which is a list of cues that tell them what their jobs will be during the show and might include bringing props on and off throughout the show.
A multitude of volunteers also arrive to assist with ticketing and ushering while concessions crews prepare for the 1,500 guests that fill the Main Stage and balcony seats.
At 7:00 p.m. the house will open and patrons will find their seats, enjoy concessions and take in the luxurious Spanish-Moorish architecture that has graced the theatre since it opened in 1927, with more than $14 million in improvements since 1984.
7:30 p.m. – About 9:45 p.m. Show Time
At ‘Curtain’ or the opening of the show, MBT Executive Director Brad Burdick welcomes guests and introduces the show and thanks the sponsors. Shows are generally two to two-and-one-half hours with a 20 minute intermission.
10:00 p.m. – About 4:00 a.m.
The New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players bring The “Pirates of Penzance” alive at the Mount Baker Theatre. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
The ‘Load In’ crew returns during the show’s finale to become the ‘Load Out’ crew. “The last things to be unpacked are the first to be packed up again. Wardrobe begins packing up while the show is still being performed. We disassemble in the reverse order that we used for set up so that the trucks can be packed up again two trucks at a time,” explains Zoehrer. “That all happens within two to four hours after the show ends depending on the complexity of the show.”
The cast packs up and heads to the next venue to begin the process all over again. Before departing, the Road Crew will take showers at the theater and then load their busses to head to the next city. But after a Broadway show has left the building, the work is not yet done. The ‘Load Out’ crew will return MBT to a show-ready state, with lighting and sound in place for the next performance. Some members of local crews will work a total of 15 hours in a single day.
Many Broadway tours do 8-week legs with a week or two break in between, performing over a number of months or even for over a year. Many of the shows that come to MBT do one night in each city and are arriving from or departing to cities like Olympia, Spokane, Yakima, Eugene, OR, or Victoria, B.C. Some touring companies get one day a week off and they often spend it sightseeing in whichever city they’ve landed in that day. If you’re curious to know more about the show from the perspective of the cast, check out these short videos by the casts of Bullets Over Broadway and by the ensemble of 42nd Street.
The historic Mount Baker Theatre’s luxurious design completes the Broadway experience. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
Keeping the MBT hive running in top form to host traveling Broadway shows is a big job for Zoehrer, his leads, volunteers, and the huge team of hard-working, self-driven crew. But they’re up for the task for the sake of the art form. “I delegate to my team and make sure we stay on budget and stay safe,” says Zoehrer who must always look ahead. “In that same day, I also have to think about the other 14 shows coming up.” In a single week, MBT may host ten other public and private shows, rehearsals, rentals, and events across their three venues in addition to the Broadway show.
Now that you know what goes into delivering a quality Broadway performance, consider seeing one by ordering your own tickets. You can travel to Dublin (via Broadway) on November 4 when MBT hosts the Tony Award-winning production of the romantic musical Once. This story follows a Dublin street musician’s struggle to reach his dreams and find his art in the chemistry he develops with a captivating young woman. On December 18, Mamma Mia! will take you to a Greek island paradise with a mother, a daughter, and 3 possible dads for a funny tale that unfolds with songs by ABBA. Then, go from screen to stage with the multi-talented singers and dancers of the stage adaptation of Fame, a show that highlights the hard work and ambitions of students at New York’s High School for the Performing Arts. Another classic, The Pirates of Penzance, will arrive on March 12 to transport audiences to another time in this exuberant musical masterpiece performed by the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players.
Each year, the Peace Builder Awards are an opportunity to nominate individuals, groups, and organizations that have dedicated their efforts to strengthening community. After careful consideration the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center’s Board of Directors has chosen the winners of the 14th Annual Peace Builder Awards. The 2016 Peace Builder Award recipients are:
Peace Builder Awards gala attendees enjoy the program during last year’s event. Photo credit: Phil Rose Photography.
Lummi Nation, Transforming Justice Award – For engaging the community and taking collective action to transform the Lummi Judicial system through innovation and restorative practices.
Bellingham Peace Vigil, Community Award – For dedication to and advocacy for peace, non-violence, and social justice.
Jeff McKenna, MAD-HOPE, Youth Education Award – For equipping youth with the tools and resources for courageous and compassionate conversations about youth suicide.
Brad Lockhart, Bellingham Flag, Arts Award – For collaborative efforts to engage with the public and private sectors to create a cohesive visual representation of community identity.
Star Park Playground Project, City of Ferndale, Collaboration Award – For engaging the community in a collaborative project, and creating a common place for connection.
Eric Brown, Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition, Environment Award – For developing mutually agreeable solutions among diverse stakeholders.
Rick Qualls, Fountain Community Church, Volunteer Award – For fostering connections, and engaging the community in identifying and meeting basic needs of a vulnerable population.
Katherine and Sapphire Orlowski, Creative Conflict Resolution – For the courage and desire to come together to build communication and reach resolution through parent-teen mediation.
Moonwater speaks during last year’s Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center’s Peace Builder Awards gala. Photo credit: Phil Rose Photography.
The Lummi Nation has been taking steps to promote justice and a healthier community through the development of Peacemaking Circles. This effort has been a proactive step in rebuilding trust between people and solving problems in a way that draws on the community’s rich traditions of deep listening and storytelling.
The WDRC invites the public to join in celebrating recipients for their collaboration, creativity, and effort towards reducing conflict and strengthening our community. “This is a critical time to invest in conflict resolution. Help us recognize those who inspire collaboration, embody peace, and give hope to our community,” stated WDRC Executive Director, Moonwater.
The 14th Annual Peace Builder Awards Gala takes place November 18, 2016 at 5:30 pm at the BTC Settlemyer Hall. Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased online at www.whatcomdrc.org, by calling 360-676-0122, or in person at the WDRC.
During the 14th Annual Peace Builder Awards Gala, bid on items in a silent auction as part of the festivities. Photo credit: Phil Rose Photography
In addition to awards presentations, guests will enjoy a gourmet dinner prepared by BTC’s award-winning Culinary Arts program, live music, and Peaceful Poetry Youth Contest presentations; as well as a silent auction, wine wall, dessert dash, and a grand prize raffle.
All proceeds of the Peace Builder Awards Gala will benefit the WDRC and their mission to provide and promote constructive and collaborative approaches to conflict. For more information, contact Iris Maute-Gibson at 360-676-0122 or outreach@whatcomdrc.org.
Cassidy Janson will be performing with The Jive Aces when they make a November 17, 2016 stop in Bellingham at the Mount Baker Theatre. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
There are those with performing art prowess that train for years, hone their craft, shine like diamonds on stage . . . but for one reason or another just never get their big break. Dreams of stardom can be dashed by not getting past that first audition, agents not delivering the right role at the right time, or a whole host of variables like geography or funds being “off.” The talented folks for whom the stars did align, in the traditional manner, continue to perform at the local and regional level (like in one of the 400 events a year at Mount Baker Theatre).
But in our age of prolific video access, there are many new and different ways to get in front of a crowd. Some of these folks completely side step the rigmarole of going between agents and instead shine bright in the spotlight of their own accord. Since audiences now have instant access to voting by text and more performances of favorites online, they create the celebrities! Nowhere are these new shining stars more present than on televised talent shows—shows where individuals compete to become household names, and in doing so, appear on our radar when we book shows. See the acts that millions of fans have voted for this upcoming season at the Mount Baker Theatre!
Gary Mullen gives you his best Freddie Mercury songs during One Night of Queen on February 18, 2017 at the Mount Baker Theatre. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
The Jive Aces, the UK’s foremost jive and swing band, are no strangers to accepting awards. In 2011, the group sprang on the scene with a viral video cover of “Bring Me Sunshine,” which went on to earn a Silver Telly Award and win big at film festivals. Just months later, the Aces auditioned for Britain’s Got Talent, becoming the first ever live band to get through to the semi-finals—and even notoriously picky Simon Cowell has remarked that the group is “absolutely brilliant.” One of the brightest jewels in the crown of this band came after a glittering performance for Her Majesty the Queen herself, celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Speaking of royalty, Gary Mullen has been chosen by fans as the reigning king of tribute rock. When his wife and mother secretly submitted him to Britain’s hit TV show Stars in Their Eyes in 2000, Mullen began stunning on-stage tributes as Freddie Mercury. The television talent show, which regularly garners millions of viewers, saw an all-time record number of votes for Mullen when he won the overall Live Grand Final. He later went on to represent the UK on Euro Stars in Their Eyes and jumped from television screens to the stage with a crew of Queen-loving rockers. This team of musicians will be returning to the Mount Baker Theatre stage after sweeping through here in 2011—back by popular demand in One Night of Queen!
Ladies of Laughter will be at Mount Baker Theatre on March 18, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
These award shows aren’t just a boys’ club through—the Ladies of Laughter, some of the wittiest women around, are performing their prize-winning punchlines at the Mount Baker Theatre this spring. After scouring the country for comedy queens, the Ladies of Laughter competition found three winners in psychologist Stephanie Blum, Comedy Central gem Dana Eagle, and the National Professional Grand Champion Alycia Cooper. This show, promoting women in the traditionally male domain of stand-up comedy, will make fans of everyone in the audience.
Of course, there are more traditional accolades in our programming: Vince Gill, 20-time Grammy winner and member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, will have your toes tapping as he brings Nashville to the Northwest with The Time Jumpers. The Jazz at Lincoln Center is equally decorated—band leader Wynton Marsalis, the only person to receive Grammy Awards for both jazz and classical records, has earned the Pulitzer Prize for music, honorary degrees from just about every Ivy League, and has earned 9 Grammys…so far!
Who is your favorite MBT Journeys act of the season? Let’s have our own award. Go to our Facebook page and vote.
Living Earth Herbs is conveniently located in the northeast corner of Terra (Public Market). Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.
Fear not the cold and flu season. In Bellingham, we are fortunate to have herbal healers among us. It’s where ancient traditions meet with the modern hectic world. And we’re reminded of our connection to our beautiful natural surroundings.
Michele Sanger, local herbalist and owner of Living Earth Herbs, brings her years of expertise, training and her plant wisdom to the local community. With her shop tucked into the northeast corner of the Public Market, Michele provides an array of plant-based medicines including, flower essences, tinctures, sprays, oils and dried herbs for teas. She sources only the most pure dry herbs and products for the shop.
Michele Sanger sources high quality plant medicines for Living Earth Herbs. Photo courtesy: Michele Sanger.
Michele says that sourcing these products has become easier. “As more and more folks in our country have come to value organic farming, coupled with the explosion of folks who prefer natural remedies over pharmaceutical ones, there are more excellent sources of certified organic and locally-organically-grown farms of large and small scale available.”
With cold and flu season on our tail and the change of seasons, Michele reassures us that we don’t need to succumb to misery.
“Getting sick is optional. Just because your partner or housemate is sick, doesn’t mean that you have to come down with it. We have proven this over again. We have many tools in the shop for boosting the immune system, including a beautiful array of herbal teas, tinctures and essential oils,” says Michele.
When we require help with a health condition, we can rely on Michele’s expertise as an herbal healer. Her employees complete an apprenticeship with Michele before starting work at Living Earth Herbs. “I try to teach my apprentices that herbal-ism is an art form, even though science has come along giving us scientific validation. The best way to approach herbal medicine is to use a blend of knowledge, experience and intuition,” explains Michele.
Calendula flower provides relief for skin health issues. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.
As far as, Michele’s journey into the world of healing plants, she began studying flora when she decided to become a vegetarian at the age of 16.
“My mother challenged me to research how to be an adequately nourished vegetarian, since neither of us really knew much about this. Every book and magazine I got on the subject seemed to include information on using herbs for health too, so I really became introduced to herbal-ism as a side topic.”
Eventually, Michele signed up for her apprenticeship to learn about the healing power of plants.
“After years of self-study, I did an intensive one-and-half year apprenticeship with Howie Brounstein in Eugene, Oregon, in 1996. After that, I continued taking classes with every teacher that I could access. One year, a group of herbal students organized Susun Weed (known for her Wise Woman series of books), to come out from the East Coast for a weekend long seminar.”
Living Earth Herbs provides plant and other types of medicine including gemstones. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.
The journey into plant medicine led Michele from Santa Cruz to Eugene, and then eventually to Bellingham. “My husband, daughter and I moved here from Oregon nine years ago, after we had spent a year in Chile.”
She originally opened shop on Bay Street near the Upfront Theatre and then she received an opportune invitation. “We are in our second location and it’s a great improvement. Stephen Trinkaus, the owner of the Public Market talked us into expanding to being open every day.”
Living Earth Herbs is a family shop that serves the local community. While Michele features products from outside the community, she also carries products by regional vendors in the shop. The quality of the products (made with love), provide the healing power.
Michele shares her healing philosophy. “Herbal-ism helps strengthen a person no matter what they’re going through. There is a botanical remedy for every situation to support a personal journey back to health.”
Michele Sanger carefully sources her plants from sustainable vendors and farmers. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.
In the event that herbs would counteract a pharmaceutical product, Michele says, “It’s safe to take a flower essence with any pharma drug,” which isn’t always the case with other plant-based medicines.
While anyone can learn about healing with plant medicine and seasonal herbal supplements fly off the shelf, it never hurts to consult with an expert.
Michele welcomes newcomers and veterans to explore her offerings.
“We encourage people to come in to the shop when they have time to check out the various herbal remedies to see which ones will be a good fit for their lifestyle. We have a remedy to fit every budget, taste bud preference or any other concern!”
Living Earth Herbs is conveniently located in the northeast corner of Terra (Public Market). Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.
This cold season turn to Living Earth Herbs’ bounty for relief.
Living Earth Herbs
1530 Cornwall Avenue (Public Market)
Open: Monday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Helene Fellows and Jamie Schwindt welcome passerby at Something Found. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.
Heading into fall, WhatcomTalk readers shifted their interests to stories profiling people, rather than activities. These were our readers’ favorite stories published in September.
1. Dining in the Dark – Downtown Bellingham Restaurants that Stay Open Late
With some Bellingham restaurants staying open as late (or early) as 4:00 a.m., late night hunger is easily satisfied. Photo courtesy: The Horseshoe Cafe/Facebook.
2. Darby Cowles – Senior City Planner has Eyes on a Sustainable Bellingham
Darby Cowles says that a healthy city is infused with art and unexpected surprises. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.
3. Signs Plus Brings New Life to Historic Fairhaven Pharmacy Sign
The building at the corner of 12th and Harris was advertised as the South Side Shopping Tower when it was built in 1929. The historic Fairhaven Pharmacy has now been removed to be refurbished by Signs Plus. Photo courtesy: Signs Plus.
4. Editor’s Pick – Discover Found Objects at These Eclectic Fairhaven Boutiques
Helene Fellows and Jamie Schwindt welcome passerby at Something Found. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.
After five decades of operation, Barron Heating, AC, Electrical & Plumbing continues to be a local leader in meeting the heating needs of residents....
