< February 2010 >

Five Sumi-e artists present their 2009 show of Asian ink-and-brush paintings. Sumi technique is an ancient art form, using brush strokes that are simple, elegant and serene. Paintings feature nature scenes and calligraphy.

Fine Balance Imaging will sponsor the fourth annual Gratitude Giclée Art Show during the month of February. Each year Fine Balance Imaging offers this show opportunity to their artist clients in gratitude for their business, and all sale proceeds go directly to the artists. The art will be showing in the Hub of the Bayview Cash Store for the whole month, and there will be a special show in the gallery next to Open Door Gallery from February 19 to 28. Join us for the Artists' Reception at the Bayview Cash on February 20 from 5:00 to 8:00pm.

See the Images of the Universe in the Studio at Fine Balance Imaging on the second floor of Bayview Cash Store, 5603 Bayview Road in Langley. Images from NASA literally cover the walls of the Studio. Photos of galaxies and nebulas, printed on satin fabric, can be purchased from Fine Balance Imaging. See all of the images available for prints on the website at www.fbistudios.com/galleries.

"I spend a lot of time thinking about America, who we are as a people and a culture and a nation, and I have always felt that the theatre is a truly appropriate place to examine these issues, the way David Hare examines what it means to be British, or Brian Friel examines what it means to be Irish.

I am a woman, I am an American, I am a mother, I sometimes write for television, and I sometimes write movies; I play the piano, I knit, I rail at the universe; I am angry, I am sad; I am a comic realist, a misanthrope, and an idealist. There are many ways to categorize me, and my work. But for myself, I would most like to be considered a playwright."

Discussion led by Amy Wheeler

7 days at an idyllic world-renowned women writers retreat on Whidbey Island, and exceptional writing workshops with a celebrated writer. Each resident writer is housed in her own handcrafted cottage in the woods with a sleeping loft, work area and wood-burning stove. Meals are prepared by Hedgebrook’s in-house chef using fresh produce from our organic garden. The 48-acre retreat features forest walking paths, ponds and meadows, views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, and quiet areas for writing, reading and meditating. A beautiful beach and charming seaside village are nearby.

The week-long session includes: Ten hours of workshops over 5 days with playwright Theresa Rebeck (Feb 3 - 9, 2010) or poet Carolyn Forché (Mar 8 - 14, 2010), instructor-led constructive group feedback sessions, one-on-one sessions with the instructor and two additional days of retreat time. Space is limited to six writers per session.

Combining elements of soul, pop, rock, gospel and blues, Tim Be Told has emerged in the Charlottesville music scene with their own unique sound. Recent winners of UVa's 2008 Battle of the Bands, Tim Be Told continues to grow a loyal and passionate fanbase both in Virginia and beyond with their infectious buitar hooks, captivating melodies and driving rhythm parts. Tim Be Told hopes that their music will cause people to view life through a different lens, one of honesty, hope, redemption and change.

Advance ticket prices: Skagit students $8 and public $10

At the door: Skagit students $10 and public $12

Tickets available at Skagit Valley College Whidbey Island Campus at the cashier's window in Old Main building. Please bring canned foods for our year round food drive for the Help House.

Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. Don't miss out on this tasting at the Greenbank Farm Wine Shop and Tasting Room with Eleven. The winemaker will be pouring a wonderful selection of his wines in our fun, casual environment. Peruse the art galleries for wine and snacks, music and art. Visit the Greenbank Cheese shop where you can sample artisan cheeses and local treats. Perhaps you will treat yourself to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open at 5:30 pm to serve dinner, often featuring a new local chef, (call 360-678-1288 for reservations) and be sure to save room for pie!

Set in rural Louisiana during World War II, this play follows the lives of six women thrown together by the war. Three young wives are living with their husbands' mother in her home, waiting for the men to return. The family's situation is chronicled in the local press by reporter Addie May and is picked up by Life magazine, whose reporter is struggling to compete for good assignments in a male-dominated world. From the monologues of the women, who make up six of the seven cast members, to the interplay between them, there is something that makes the audience uncomfortable and ill at ease in the best possible sense. The play is not meant for children.

Tickets $16

Open Door Gallery + Coffee's Second Annual theme show for the month of February, "Arts, Hearts, and Hammers" is a fundraiser for the Hearts & Hammers organization on Whidbey Island. A reception and silent auction will be held on Sat. Feb. 6th from 5pm - 8:30pm. Most of the work will relate in some way to tools, houses, construction, heart, hearth, and home. Literal, philosophical, playful, spiritual, abstract and all mediums and interpretations will be in the auction.

Hearts & Hammers is a one-day blitz to repair and rehabilitate the homes of those physically or financially unable to do so. Visit www.heartsandhammers.com for more information on the organization.

Artist reception on Feb. 5th 5:00pm - 8:00pm, show runs through end of Feb. Her oil paintings catch the Northwest flavor and share the way she feels about the area.

Opening reception Feb. 5th, show runs through March 3rd. The female body has long been one of the classic subjects for artists and is without a doubt one of the most complicated and ever variable. Whidbey painter, Ken Hassrick spent more than 30 years exploring this evocative subject. This retrospective of his work will feature figurative compositions that range from realism to abstract.

A joint venture with Carpenter Creek Winery and Pasek Cellars at Dusty Cellars Winery.

Sound Waters, held each year on the 1st Sat. in February, provides a one day university for all to help the public learn about a wide variety of topics related to the appreciation and stewardship of our environment and marine resources. Year after year, it is the largest public gathering held in Island County for marine, nearshore and environmental education. This year, our keynote speaker with be Dr. Nathaniel Scholz of NOAA, who will speak on the impact of storm water on Puget Sound.

Participants must register in advance.

The tasting features Meads. Tastings occur the 1st and 3rd Sat. of every month and feature a different type of beer. The Beer Works has a selection of over 600 beers, ciders, meads and wines.

Learn and enjoy the benefits of using seasonal, locally produced ingredients in the Classic French Tradition while cooking and dinning with renowned Chef and Provence native David Amar. The event is produced by the Northwest Language Academy (NWLA) and co-sponsored by Slow Food, Whidbey Chapter. Proceeds from the event will go to NWLA’s scholarship fund for children’s summer language camp

$58 includes cooking class and dinner, reservations only

Enjoy the romantic ambiance of the Captain Whidbey Inn, learn and laugh in a 6-hour creative "Playshop" that will add fun and intimacy to your partnership, then share a romantic candlelit dinner at the Ship of Fools Restaurant.

Package cost starting at $375 per couple

Brackenwood Gallery is thrilled to present a show reflecting the travels of three fine artists, Anna Mastronardi, Jeff Day and Faye Castle. Opening reception on Sat. Feb. 6th 5-7pm, exhibition continues through March 1st.

Join the Friends of Camano Island Parks members on a guided community walk through Cama Beach State Park. The walk will include the Cranberry Lake Trail, Welcome Center loop and beach. Total mileage will be 3.5 miles with some up and down portions. Shuttle vehicles will return walkers to the parking area. Walk takes place rain or shine. Wear appropriate clothes and sturdy shoes or boots. Meet at Ivy Road and Dry Lake Road junction. Access Dry lake Road from Elger Bay Road north of Elger Bay Elementary School or Monticello Road, which intersects West Camano Road and Elger Bay Road. Parking is on the Ivy Road cul-de-sac. Camano Island Walking Trails booklets are available at the Camano Chamber Kiosk, TJ Bucks, and Coastal Community Bank on Camano.

Set in rural Louisiana during World War II, this play follows the lives of six women thrown together by the war. Three young wives are living with their husbands' mother in her home, waiting for the men to return. The family's situation is chronicled in the local press by reporter Addie May and is picked up by Life magazine, whose reporter is struggling to compete for good assignments in a male-dominated world. From the monologues of the women, who make up six of the seven cast members, to the interplay between them, there is something that makes the audience uncomfortable and ill at ease in the best possible sense. The play is not meant for children.

Tickets $16

The only regularly scheduled flea market on South Whidbey Island.

Lyla Lillis, from Earth, Woman and Fire Pottery is the Featured Artist for the Deception Pass Art Gallery for the month of February. View the works of over 50 local artists at the gallery and visitor center located in the beautiful log building just South of Deception Pass Bridge.

John Marzluff of the University of Washington. Doors open at 7pm, meeting at 7:20pm, program at 7:30pm. Please bring a mug for coffee.

Set in rural Louisiana during World War II, this play follows the lives of six women thrown together by the war. Three young wives are living with their husbands' mother in her home, waiting for the men to return. The family's situation is chronicled in the local press by reporter Addie May and is picked up by Life magazine, whose reporter is struggling to compete for good assignments in a male-dominated world. From the monologues of the women, who make up six of the seven cast members, to the interplay between them, there is something that makes the audience uncomfortable and ill at ease in the best possible sense. The play is not meant for children.

Tickets $16

A few sparklers, a few lusty reds and an aromatic white, just the wines to get you in the mood. $10

A casual standing event where you can socialize, learn and taste. Also offered are a taste of different foods the bayleaf offers, a cheese pairing, the latest grocery items, a chocolate tasting.

Join Alina Frank and Dr. Craig Weinston at the tranquil Yoga Lodge in historic Greenbank. Couples will be invited to engage in a wide variety of techniques both playful and intense designed to re-open your heart, re-ignite the passion, and catalyze the joy that you deserve.

Overnight accommodations are available on the premises or can be arranged with local inns or bed and breakfasts with discounted rates for our attendees.

The Yoga Lodge retreat facility is an environmentally conscious center amidst a lush evergreen forest surrounded by wildlife, ponds and trails. It is designed to be a perfect backdrop for spiritual and intimate reconnection to the natural world, your partner and yourself. Chosen Best Mind and Body Retreat by Seattle Metropolitan Magazine.

$365 per couple before Jan. 1st, $395 after Jan. 1st.

One of the great popular successes of recent Broadway history, this ingeniously constructed play offers a rare and skillful blending of two priceless theatrical ingredients-gasp-inducing thrills and spontaneous laughter. Dealing with the devious machinations of a writer of thrillers whose recent offerings have been flops, and who is prepared to go to any lengths to improve his fortunes, it provides twists and turns and sudden shocks in such abundance that audiences will be held spellbound until the very last moment..

The second Whidbey Preservation Art Exhibition takes place at the Pacific NorthWest Art School on Feb. 12th at 6:00pm. Artists will once again be submitting their work based on the premise of what they cherish and feel needs to be preserved on Whidbey Island. The show will remain open to the public from Feb. 12-28 Mon.-Fri. 9:00am to 4:00pm.

Look for paintings, photographs, and 3D pieces inspired by this theme. Come see and purchase the art, meet new folks and see what the art school has to offer

Give Your Sweetie Something Sweet!The bayleaf is happy to have Tree Top Baking providing them with sweets perfect for your sweetie this Valentines Day. Lots of these items (Sweetheart cookie box, 7 inch fudge cake, etc.) can be personalized, so please get your special orders in right away! Very limited items will be available in the store - don't miss out, reserve yours. Deadlines, 7th for pick up on the 9th and 10th for pickup on the 12th. Call 360-675-6600 to learn more.

Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting & Sweetheart Market!Runs through Monday, February 15th, 2010 Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA. More Information 360-678-7700 or visit us on the web.

Chateaubriand For Two! Candlelight table side service that starts with a crisp green salad, flamed tenderloin of beef with mushroom burgundy sauce, baked potato and glazed carrots. Fresh baked bread and a choice of two desserts along with a glass of white or red wine complete this fine meal.
The cost is $80.00 per couple. Reservations must be made by Thursday February 11th. Bakerview Restaurant at the CPO Club. Please call 360-257-6587 or 360-257-2505. Dinner hours are 5pm-8:30pm.

Want To Add More Romance To The Dinner Above?You can include a romantic 1 hr flight around the island for a couple prior to their dinner and the total cost would be $130.00, for your flight and dinner-a terrific value! (limited to four couples, so call today!)

Just Want A Romantic Flight?For those couples who just would like to go up on a romantic 1 hr discovery flight we can offer a flight for $90 also and those flights would run all day Sunday the 14th.

Cupids Welcome!With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's time to surprise your sweetheart with a romantic stay at The Blue Goose Inn. We have the perfect romantic setting to invite Cupid to make an appearance! Mention that you saw this ad on the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce website and we'll add ourRomance Package to any stay that includes February 14th, for only $28 (a $44 value!). The Romance Package includes your choice of wine, champagne or sparkling cider, along with a bouquet of fresh flowers all waiting in your room when you arrive. Make plans now to celebrate with your special someone. Contact Sue or Marty at (360) 678-4284 or stay@bluegooseinn.com. Check out their website.

2 Very Special Ways To Celebrate Valentine's Day!Saturday, Feb 13rd, Valentine's Dinner & a show featuring Big Bank Singer Brenda Pike! 5 course set menu with complementary champagne. There will be 2 seating's at 5PM & 7:30PM. reservations required. Call Angelo's Caffe at (360) 675-4053.

Valentine's Day Brunch!Sunday February 14th, with complementary mimosas, from 11:00am - 4pm. Call Angelo's Caffe at (360) 675-4053 for details and reservations. Angelo's Caffe is loated at 670 SE Pioneer Way.

Romance Her With Roses...And Pearls!Buy 1 dozen Red Roses and receive an elegant 18" strand of freshwater pearls *free*! While Supplies Last! Call or come in for details! MIDWAY FLORIST www.midwayflorist.com, stop by the store at 91 NE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor, WA 98277 call us at (360)-679-2525.

Valentine Day Last-Minute Special!Stay three nights, receive 3rd night 1/2 OFF!* *(valid Feb 10 - 27, 2010 - all rooms except Carriage House) three nights at Saratoga Inn full complimentary breakfast / afternoon wine and hors d'oeuvres. For more information: Contact Kayce at 866.749.5565 toll free or (360) 221-5801. Saratoga Inn is located at: 201 Cascade Ave, Langley, WA 98260 website.

Wine On Whidbey Presents Chocolate!Don't forget that ultimate box of chocolate for your sweetest on Valentine's Day, a decadent assortment of beautifully boxed chocolates filled with six fabulous dessert flavors, each surrounded by a luscious layer of dark, milk and white chocolate. Each will be handmade with fresh ingredients and delivered right to your Valentine's door just before Valentine's Day. What could be sweeter or easier? Call to order the Valentine's dessert collection (24 chocolates) $39 (includes shipping and handling.) 360-678-7438, ask for Chris.

Valentine Special!This week-NO ENROLLMENT FEE for married couples or couples who are engaged who join Mt Baker CrossFit between now and February 14th. They will also receive a Mt. Baker CrossFit T-shirt!!! Again, it's this week ony! www.mtbakercrossfitwhidbeyisland.com or call us at (360) 9147159. Mt Baker Crossfit is located at: 1640 NE Goldie St.

A Special Arrangement Just For You! Midway Florist can do any arrangement you wish, in vases or baskets with a Valentine Theme, starting at $35.00. Check out their website to see the many beautiful possibilities. www.midwayflorist.com. Midway Florist is located at: 91 NE Miday Boulevard, Oak Harbor.

Valentine's Portrait!Mark the return of the $20.00 8x10, and just in time for Valentine's Day. Give your sweetheart a beautiful portrait of what they love most - you! As part of our Valentines gift to you, your session fee has been waived. Commit your February 13th to Pendleton Imaging & Photography NOW! Amy's Touch, ,10- 3 pm, 810 SE Pioneer Way Ste 102. Call Amy at (360) 675-9573 for an appointment. Not a day person? Later the same evening PORTRAIT will be taken at: Seven West, 780 SE Bayshore Drive, from 8 to 10 pm. As a bonus Jessica & Jenn, Allure Salon and Spa, will be available at both sessions to provide FREE makeup and hair styling. Call 360.672.2097 for details.

Valentine's Day At Galaxy Laser Tag!Ladies play for free. We are open 3pm - 11pm. Unlimited play for $20.00. If you have any questions just give Jennifer a call at 632.2244. Galaxy Laser Tag is located at 2949 Goldie Rd H2, Oak Harbor.

Valentine's Day Party At Paint Your World!Sunday Feb 14th from 1-6pm. We will be having fun all day painting, snacking, and free gift bags for all painters. Everyone is invited from babies to us grownup kids. No reservations needed. 860 SE Pioneer Way #102 or (360) 679-4115.

Special Matinee At Whidbey Playhouse On Valentine's Day!. "The Cover of Life" live theatre performances during the month of February. Starting Feb. 5 -27, 2010 Thurs., Fri. & Sat. 7:30 pm Matinees Sundays at 2:30 pm with a Special Matinee on Feb. 14th 2:30 pm for Valentine's Day. $16 per person. Whidbey Playhouse, (360) 679-2237 or website.

Sweetheart Overnight Package! Stay any night between February 12th-27th at the Best Western Harbor Plaza and receive our "Sweetheart Package"! This includes: Your choice of room based upon availability, A bottle of chilled champagne, chocolates and fresh flowers upon arrival. $139.00 plus tax, Reservations needed. Call the Best Western at (360)679-4567.

Girls Night Special!Stay any night between February 12th-27th at the Best Western Harbor Plaza and receive our "Girls Night Special". This includes: Choice of room based upon availability, Chilled champagne upon arrival and goodie bag filled with popcorn, chocolates, and a free dvd rental. $139.00 plus tax, Reservations needed. Call the Best Western at (360)679-4567.

Love Is A Bloom!The Greenhouse Florist and Nursery has a great selection of roses, chocolates, plush animals, balloons, & much more!! Let us bring a smile to your Valentine! Stop by at: 555 NE 7th St, or call us at (360) 675-6668.

A hand-blown, signed and dated snowball will be yours if you are one of the winners at The Great Northwest Glass QUEST in Stanwood and Camano Island , WA , February 12-28, 2010. The Great Northwest Glass QUEST treasure hunt is for everyone; all ages, local residents and visitors are welcome! Over 200 “clueballs” will be hidden in and around participating businesses and in Heritage Park , Camano Island State Park and Freedom Park . Inside each clueball you will find the “clue” (business name and address) which leads you to the glass snowball prize. A winning questor will exchange his or her clueball for a Glass QUEST snowball complete with a limited edition number and the artist’s initials.

The MERCEDES NICOLE TRIO
Featuring Pianist RANDY HALBERSTADT
and CLIPPER ANDERSON Bass
Reservations: $25.00

In conjucntion with the Whidbey Island Vintners Red Wine and Chocolate Tour, Greenbank Farm Wine Shop will be featuring Blooms Winery of Whidbey and FishTalk Vineyards' red wines as well as the Greenbank Farm Loganberry Wine along with a sample of the wonderful Loganberry Chocolate Truffles from Chocolates by George. A ticket to this passport event, which includes tastings and cholocate at the three other winery tasting rooms on the Island, are available for $20. each. A selection of other wines for tasting will be available by the taste for those not participating in the passport event. Also, throughout the weekend at the Greenbank Farm Market inside the historic 1904 Barn experience Belgian chocolates and fudge, stroll through the market of handcrafts, art, photography and gourmet foods created by local artisans to find special gifts for your Valentine. Enjoy the charming atmosphere of the market in the barn making your visit to the farm a sweet destination.

Coffee, beer and wine, small bites, sweet treats & tantalizing specials for purchase prepared by Mukilteo Coffee's own Chef Jess. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and silent auction begins M.C. Jim Freeman, South Whidbey's "Master of Fun". Western Heroes begin at 6:30, an energetic, dance-able, eclectic original, always fun group. Including our own local "all stars" Michael and David Licastro, Lorraine Newland, Larry Neubauer, and David Malony. Thank you for Raising the Roof! NOW we need to "Fix our Floor" and bring our building up to standard. Join us to ensure that our well loved coffeehouse and bookstore has a secure foundation.

Celebrate the mood with us on the night before Valentine's Day! Swing and sway to the smooth tunes of the LocoMotion dance experience. This special evening will also include nostalgic songs with the Big Band Sound. Walter Dill starts the evening off with a Waltz workshop at 7pm, music plays until 11pm.

Come single, come in a couple. Semi formal to formal dress is encouraged. Photos for remembering will be available. All proceeds go toward Bayview Hall, a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

Whidbey Island Vintners Association is pleased to present its 2nd annual Red Wine and Chocolates Event: Participating wineries are Greenbank Cellars, Holmes Harbor Cellars, and Whidbey Island Winery. Two other wineries, Blooms Winery and Swede Hill Cellars will be pouring their wines at their new wine co-op, Taste-4-Wines, which is located at the historic Bayview Cash Store. Each winery will be pouring luscious wines complimented by decadent chocolate delights! This is an opportunity to meet the winemakers, enjoy the beauty of Whidbey Island and of course delight in an extensive selection of sumptuous red wines!

Tickets can be purchased in advance at Greenbank Cellars, Holmes Harbor Cellars, Whidbey Island Winery and Taste 4 Wines co-op. You may also purchase tickets for WIV 2010 Red Wine and Chocolate Event on-line at brownpapertickets.com. Cost is $20.00 and includes a souvenir glass, wine tasting, chocolates and map. Tickets will also be available at the door for $25.00.

A hands-on class exploring and making this famous example of NW Coast Indian Art. You are guaranteed to finish and learn a great deal about the origins, design elements and ceremonial use of your rattle. $45 registration, $10 per class the 2nd and last Sat. of each month. You supply tools (list provided by instructor). Must register.

Step back into the past with master flint knapper Dr. Joe Higgins and his motley crew of primitive enthusiasts. Learn the ancient techniques of Flint Knapping, the prehistoric art of making stone tools. See the stone tools and weapons of our American Indian ancestors made using traditional materials. Presented by the Whidbey Island Rock and Gem Club.

Purchase a copy of "Whidbey Island, the Jewel of Puget Sound" and support the new Ebey's Forever Fund created to support preservation within Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. The book is a portfolio of 44 images from Deception Pass to Langley. Photographer Denis Hill will autograph the book and donate $10 to the fund.

You are invited to attend a ceremonial flag raising at the Camano Island Chamber’s Visitor Information Center, Gateway Park at Terry’s Corner. We will be raising the original Olympic Flag which flew over Gateway Park on the 13th of May, 1999 at the grand opening of the park and the Chamber Visitor Information Center . The flag was originally given to Jack and Lois Sharpe, long-time Camano Island Chamber members, by the mother of Sarah Jones, a Stanwood High School graduate who was on the Olympic rowing team in 2000. The flag will remain up during the 2010 Olympic games.

Set in rural Louisiana during World War II, this play follows the lives of six women thrown together by the war. Three young wives are living with their husbands' mother in her home, waiting for the men to return. The family's situation is chronicled in the local press by reporter Addie May and is picked up by Life magazine, whose reporter is struggling to compete for good assignments in a male-dominated world. From the monologues of the women, who make up six of the seven cast members, to the interplay between them, there is something that makes the audience uncomfortable and ill at ease in the best possible sense. The play is not meant for children.

Tickets $16

One of the great popular successes of recent Broadway history, this ingeniously constructed play offers a rare and skillful blending of two priceless theatrical ingredients-gasp-inducing thrills and spontaneous laughter. Dealing with the devious machinations of a writer of thrillers whose recent offerings have been flops, and who is prepared to go to any lengths to improve his fortunes, it provides twists and turns and sudden shocks in such abundance that audiences will be held spellbound until the very last moment..

Mardi Grsas dance at the Camano Senior Community Center. Music by the Camano Junction. Costumes and masks encouraged. Tickets available at the door.

Join local songstress Rainey Lewis and her international band of merry men as they perform a Valentine's Evening Benefit Concert for the Pat Rodden family. Rainey has written songs for TV and movies and has written a song as the theme song for this rare concert performance. Rainey's band includes an international array of very talented musicians.

Tickets are a suggested donation of $20 and will be available at the door, or can be purchased in advance at Useless Bay Coffee in Langley, Nymbols Secret Garden in Langley, Boomerang at Kens Korner and the Island Athletic Club in Freeland. Proceeds benefit the family of Pat Rodden who was critically injured last year in a fall.

Dinner and Concert featuring Tony & Friends includes a 3 course meal. Call 360-941-7947 or email: alltoosmooth@gmail.com to RSVP $50 for 2 people. A portion of proceeds to benefit Haiti relief efforts.

The performance will include a program of American composers.

Tickets available at Oak Harbor bayleaf, in Freeland at Bookbay and in Langley at Moonraker Books, credit card sales are accpeted online at www.brownpapertickets.com or cash/check accepted at the door.

A lecture with handouts and slides, about the state of the country, the politics, the dreams and frustrations, and the impulses behind the Way West throughout the last half of the 19th century. $5 suggested donation at the door. Please sign up by Feb 1.

The performance will include a program of American composers.

Tickets available at Oak Harbor bayleaf, in Freeland at Bookbay and in Langley at Moonraker Books, credit card sales are accpeted online at www.brownpapertickets.com or cash/check accepted at the door.

The Whidbey Island Arts Council hosts their monthly Poetry Slam. All ages of poets and non-poets are invited to share in the 90 minutes of poetic expression. Pen, paper and pencils are provided. Bring your poetic spirit and enjoy a comfortable family atmosphere.

Learn how to entice butterflies and hummingbirds into your garden. Bob Barca, Master Gardener and owner of Hummingbird Hill, will identify their basic requirements for life and provide tips to provide the appropriate plants and steps needed to create a special garden for these visitors. The talk includes slides of local butterflies and hummingbirds. Come and bring friends and neighbors to this program. This presentation is part of a public education series hosted the third Wednesday of the month by the Camano Wildlife Habitat Project, sponsored by Friends of Camano Island Parks as part of the Island County watershed project.

Set in rural Louisiana during World War II, this play follows the lives of six women thrown together by the war. Three young wives are living with their husbands' mother in her home, waiting for the men to return. The family's situation is chronicled in the local press by reporter Addie May and is picked up by Life magazine, whose reporter is struggling to compete for good assignments in a male-dominated world. From the monologues of the women, who make up six of the seven cast members, to the interplay between them, there is something that makes the audience uncomfortable and ill at ease in the best possible sense. The play is not meant for children.

Tickets $16

One of the great popular successes of recent Broadway history, this ingeniously constructed play offers a rare and skillful blending of two priceless theatrical ingredients-gasp-inducing thrills and spontaneous laughter. Dealing with the devious machinations of a writer of thrillers whose recent offerings have been flops, and who is prepared to go to any lengths to improve his fortunes, it provides twists and turns and sudden shocks in such abundance that audiences will be held spellbound until the very last moment..

A lecture with slides on how our understanding of the American West has been created and influenced by artists and photographers over the last hundred and fifty years. Examples of paintings, drawings, and photos by those were there – and those who weren’t: all seeing something slightly different and unique. $5 suggested donation at the door. Please sign up by Feb 5

Mix of swing, ballroom, Latin, and country music including East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Waltz, Foxtrot, Nightclub 2 Step, Rumba, Cha Cha, Country 2 Step, Cowboy Cha Cha and the Electric Slide. Dance lesson starts at 7:30 p.m. and features the Night Club 2 Step (a relatively easy dance that you can do to those romantic ballads); followed by general dancing 8:15 to 10:30 p.m.

The $8 admission covers both the lesson and the dance. No partner necessary.

Dad, this is your opportunity to show your girl how a gentleman treats a lady and celebrate the special relationship between fathers and daughters. There is no age requirement, so young and old are able to dance the night away. Our purpose is to help families provide a quality evening together for dads and their daughters of all ages with the hope of forging stronger relationships. This popular event includes refreshments, a flower for each daughter and a free picture of each couple in Cupid's Corner. Streamlined check-in. Space is limited so please get your tickets in advance.

Fee: $15 for a father and one daughter, $3 for each additional daughter

Tours of Port Susan Preserve, snow geese and trumpeter swan tours, other area birding tours, speakers, art show, kid's activities, raptor and other displays, live music

The tasting features Molly's Picks. Tastings occur the 1st and 3rd Sat. of every month and feature a different type of beer. The Beer Works has a selection of over 600 beers, ciders, meads and wines.

Leroy Bell and his only friends, soul.

Tickets $20

Set in rural Louisiana during World War II, this play follows the lives of six women thrown together by the war. Three young wives are living with their husbands' mother in her home, waiting for the men to return. The family's situation is chronicled in the local press by reporter Addie May and is picked up by Life magazine, whose reporter is struggling to compete for good assignments in a male-dominated world. From the monologues of the women, who make up six of the seven cast members, to the interplay between them, there is something that makes the audience uncomfortable and ill at ease in the best possible sense. The play is not meant for children.

Tickets $16

One of the great popular successes of recent Broadway history, this ingeniously constructed play offers a rare and skillful blending of two priceless theatrical ingredients-gasp-inducing thrills and spontaneous laughter. Dealing with the devious machinations of a writer of thrillers whose recent offerings have been flops, and who is prepared to go to any lengths to improve his fortunes, it provides twists and turns and sudden shocks in such abundance that audiences will be held spellbound until the very last moment..

An evening of poetry and song.

Tickets are $15 with the proceeds going to the Whidbey Children's Theater's Financial Aid Fund.

A film by BBC cinematographer and marine biologist Florian Graner. The film will be shown at the Clyde Theater in Langley, WA with public tours of the research vessel M/V Indigo at the south Whidbey Harbor at Langley.

Reservations for the marina at harbormaster@portofsouthwhidbey.com or 360-221-1120

The Island County Master Gardeners are offering a series of one hour gardening classes free to the public this winter. The subject is timely gardening subjects. The 1st class is 11/24/09, the 2nd is 1/26/10 and the 3rd is 2/23/10.

Set in rural Louisiana during World War II, this play follows the lives of six women thrown together by the war. Three young wives are living with their husbands' mother in her home, waiting for the men to return. The family's situation is chronicled in the local press by reporter Addie May and is picked up by Life magazine, whose reporter is struggling to compete for good assignments in a male-dominated world. From the monologues of the women, who make up six of the seven cast members, to the interplay between them, there is something that makes the audience uncomfortable and ill at ease in the best possible sense. The play is not meant for children.

Tickets $16

A painting class for artists of all skills and media, specializing in historic buildings, antique still-life, and storied landscapes. $10 per 3 hour session, will run regularly the 4th Thurs. of each month. Registration required.

Bold, spicy, heady Zins. $15

A casual standing event where you can socialize, learn and taste. Also offered are a taste of different foods the bayleaf offers, a cheese pairing, the latest grocery items, a chocolate tasting.

One of the great popular successes of recent Broadway history, this ingeniously constructed play offers a rare and skillful blending of two priceless theatrical ingredients-gasp-inducing thrills and spontaneous laughter. Dealing with the devious machinations of a writer of thrillers whose recent offerings have been flops, and who is prepared to go to any lengths to improve his fortunes, it provides twists and turns and sudden shocks in such abundance that audiences will be held spellbound until the very last moment..

Hugo Helmer’s Accordion Band is the topic of discussion for the Island County Museum’s latest “Rural Recollections” program. Hugo’s Accordion Band was established in 1935, based out of Mount Vernon, and was famous not only for their great sounding accordion ensemble, but because of the fact they marched!

No longer associated with Helmer’s Music Stores, several former members of the early accordion bands – still playing together as “Hugo’s Accordion Band” will join their fellow musicians for a fun program at Coupeville’s Recreation Hall, at Coveland and NW Alexander Streets in Coupeville’s quaint downtown. Their enjoyable old-time accordion music is featured, and will be complemented by a nostalgic slide presentation and oral interviews with band members, who will share memories of the bands formative years. The program will be conducted and recorded by the Island County Museum, as part of an oral history-gathering project.

All are invited to come and enjoy the program, and are asked to participate in a “dessert potluck” for light refreshments. No admission fee, but donations greatly appreciated.

Dharma Talk, questions, discussion with Shodo Harada Roshi, Zen master, teacher and abbot at Sogenji Monastery, Japan and at Tahoma One Drop Monastery in Freeland, WA.

Refreshments at 6:30pm and talk/discussion at 7:00pm. Donations benefit Enso House.

Enjoy music by the Silvertones, dancing and a sweetheart dessert buffet.

Admission $3

THERE'S BEEN A MURDER! Again ...

Each year, wannabe gumshoes swarm Langley to uncover the perpetrator of the dasterdly deed on the last weekend of February. In 2008, it was death by caffeine and in 2007, death by chocolate. Who will it be next year? This event has sparked sister events in England and beyond. Bring your curiosity!

A horticultural gala with sit down dinner and flower filled auction to benefit Meerkerk Gardens, "Whidbey Island’s peaceful woodland garden"

Horticultural VIPs from the northwest and gardening enthusiasts join to contribute items for the auction and attend this fun fundraiser. Proceeds from "Dreams of Spring" go directly to pay for gardeners who care for the historic 50+ year old collection of trees, rare rhododendrons, companion plants and native habitat for our wildlife.

Camano Action for a Rural Environment (CARE) presents their second annual A Taste of Camano. Featured are various tastings, including wine, artisan cheeses and shellfish from local waters.

Several chefs, including Camano Island Waterfront Inn's chef Greg McCammond, will show their culinary skills. Meet the winemakers, cheese makers and the chefs. Enjoy the music and auction. Tickets are $50 per person. Call for tickets. Proceeds benefit CARE's efforts.

A hands-on class exploring and making this famous example of NW Coast Indian Art. You are guaranteed to finish and learn a great deal about the origins, design elements and ceremonial use of your rattle. $45 registration, $10 per class the 2nd and last Sat. of each month. You supply tools (list provided by instructor). Must register.

Sponsored by Whidbey AIDS Support Fund. All ages are welcome to this drug and alcohol free fundraiser event. Funds stay local to raise awareness to youth and to help people living with HIV/AIDS in Island County. Open dance floor between competitors and judging. Snacks, refreshments and WASF shirts will be sold.

Advance tickets available at Allure Salon & Spa in Oak Harbor, Heidi's Coffee House in Coupeville, Book Bay in Freeland, Useless Bay Coffee in Langley and Boomerang in Clinton. Enter dance off for $5 registration free and bring music/cd and be at event at 4pm to register. Tickets to attend $15 advance, $20 at the door

Lloyd Jones Struggle from Portland, Blues

Tickets $20

Whidbey is home to 6 species and occasionally visited by others. Bring flashlights, dress warm.

The Brothers Four were pioneers in the musical movement which came to be know as the "folk revival", and of the few groups from those times still performing today, they remain one of the best known and most popular. Their all-acoustic presentation consists of guitars, banjo, mandolin, upright bass, and of course the trademark rich blend of their four voices. An evening with this quartet is an unforgettable time of pure, acoustic music and entertainment.

Tickets are $25