You've passed the back of the mailbox at Mi Casita for the past 15 years...now Gregg is moving the restaurant over to the Best Western. Last night was his last night in the spot next to ferry lot "B."

Last night was the last night for MiCasita in its “old” location…Gregg & the gang closed the doors there & will re-open soon at spot in the Best Western where Homesteaders was last year & earlier this year….

Stella & Pat made things good while they were here....

When Zip San Juan opened late last year, and got off to a roaring start of a first summer this past year, the main reason as far as I can tell was the ebullient & positive & cheerful way that Pat & Stella Moll-Nevins do business. If you ever wonder whether word of mouth works on the island, the way they did things is proof, as each week this summer people would say to me, “I just went & did the zipline thing, and it was great!” I love these guys – always smiling, always engaging, and always ready to give a hand, these two are going to be much missed as they move on to other adventures:

Moving to Whidbey...

Pat and Stella are moving to Whidbey Island!

Over the course of the last two years we have made great friends and forged excellent relationships professionally, scholastically, and personally in this great community from which, with a heavy heart and nothing but warm memories we must depart. We have lived all over the state and Friday Harbor has embraced us, looked out for us, and provided for us like no other. We will look on the work we did and the friends we have made as a source of inspiration for years to come.

That the islands are a uniquely wonderful, beautiful, and spiritual place will come to no surprise to residents of the San Juans, none the less, we are saddened to leave and look forward to visiting this glorious and truly special place again. We are blessed to have had the opportunity to live in this community and want to thank everyone for being such awesome friends. Pat is moving forward in his pursuit for a degree and Stella will be spreading joy and her love for rock climbing to students and customers at Vertical World in Everett, look her up.

For the time being enjoy the holidays, enjoy one another, and zip on.

Omnium Gatherum continues this week with Dan Mayes (top), Nick Zervas, Kate Schuman (with guitar), and Helen Machin-Smith....they serve up a veritable feast of humor, music and reflection on the delights of the season.

Island Stage Left’s Omnium Gatherum continues this week for its last week, with shows Wednesday, Thursday, Friday at Roche Harbor at 7:30. The Christmas Eve shows are by reservation and Helen tells me that the 6:30 show is sold out but there are now 6 seats available for the 4:00 show and a short waiting list for the 6:30 – and she says people do change their numbers sometimes which might open up more spots! For the other shows, there are no reservations, and the doors open at 7 – she’s says they’ll do their best to fit everyone in!

She also mentions the show’s not great for kids under six – it’s over their heads – so factor that in.

See you there!

Thanks to Jessica Hagy, Indexed.

Papa Neil Curtis & Kate listen in as Cole visits with Santa on Saturday night at the Grange for Christmas Island...photo by Val Curtis (thanks, Val!)

Dozens & dozens of kids & their parents made their way to the Grange to see Santa & help decorate the tree there, sing, and eat cookies on Saturday….this annual event is a favorite for new & old islanders alike.

Banjos & more!

Here’s the word from Kirk for this Christmas:

10-30% off Instruments, Assesories, Stocking Stuffers, Lessons & Gift Certificates

Our mission revolves around one basic premise… “Everyone has a song to sing…. everyone has music to make!” It is our desire to assist anyone and everyone in sharing their musical talent. By providing new and vintage musical instruments for sale, accessories galore, lessons, repairs, band and voice coaching, a place to jam, a performance space and a place to disseminate musical information and energy…we are indeed Music Central: a comfortable place where people of all ages can have a vast array of musical needs met. “A place to play…”

We add new instruments to our online store often – vintage and unique guitars, ukuleles, mandolins, accordions, violins , lap steels, banjos & banjo ukuleles, drum kits, basses, horns and a full array of accessories.

Our “in house” Concerts are very popular and sell out regularly, due to the high caliber of talent, superb sound, comfortable seating and intimate connection with the performers.

Our individual lessons  and group classes are very popular and the spontaneous(and scheduled) Jam sessions make Isle be Jammin’ a great place to share your music.

We are known for shipping our instruments all over the world and have quite a collection of rare ethnic instruments that share our belief that Music is indeed the language of the Universe.

So stop in and say hello or check us online at SanJuanIslandsMusic.com for our events calendar, showcase times and the best in San Juan Island music!

Thanks,
Kirk Fuhrmeister

It’s great to hear our local musicians get good press – here’s Julia and the Dream‘s first official in-print review in Bellingham’s Whats Up?

As a credit to their exceptionally interesting album, your average Top 40 doofus won’t give a damn about Julia and the Dream. This record will not work for everybody as it is a sophisticated and glorious arrangement – with hints of neo-soul – in a time when many people want music that bump and grind, or music built through aggression, loud basement arranged noise, transgression, energy and screaming.

I appreciate that sort of basement energy noise and ambition, but regardless, I think J&TD is one smart record – musically and lyrically.

First tracks on albums are important, setting the context.J&TD are cool, direct and smart with hints of Moter-City schwagg meets retro garage rock-&-soul. For me this album is a bit of a problem solver, and reminds me the rift between rock and jazz is not necessarily an impossible leap.

Julia Maas’ soft rock crooner style vocals are strong and distinctive, and like the weather that sweeps through her lyrics her personality comes through each song, which are not your typical dewy-eyed declarations of love. The band allows Julia’s powerful vocals to stand front and center, supported with light rock-jazz arrangements.

“The Dream” band sounds beautifully creative, with artistic examples of staccato strumming, intelligent solo and arpeggios runs that at times indulge in fat, slowed-down garage-riffage with hints of soul and jazz. In just about every case, the music is memorable, melodic and impressive, never dragging on for too long or transforming into an un-listenable “trying to be too creative” mess.

-Johnny Quimond/yoyofm.com

Nick & Ashlee

Ron & Trish Lehman are pretty proud:

Nicholas Joseph (Nick) Lehman and Ashlee Jo Ross were married on Sept. 10, 2011 at Bear Creek Country Club in Woodinville, WA.

Nick is employed by Pioneer Cable and works out of Lynnwood, while Ashlee is a financial analyst at AT&T in Redmond, WA. They met while attending Central Washington University and both graduated in 2008. Ashlee was born and raised in Lynnwood, WA, her parents are Sandy Ross Brown and Joe Ross. Nick was born and raised on San Juan Island and his parents are Ron and Trish Lehman; his brothers, Tobi and Siege (Casey) were groomsmen.

His gramma Lori Mahr, age 91, flew in from California to attend the wedding. Nick’s grandparents, Ross and B.J. Miner were watching from heaven and no doubt celebrating with a little champagne!

Just checked with Judy Chovan, who saw a preview of the show – she reports you don’t want to miss this one!

I meant to tell you if you have a chance go see Omnium Gatherum – it is just a perfect blend of music and poetry and readings – amazing talent and great holiday warmth, thoughts and joy.

Starts Friday at Roche Harbor!

Sure was cold!

Proof it was cold last weekend – Carlys Allen got ice flowers on her windshield Saturday morning. Pretty this time of year!

You noticed the real fisherwoman in the bottom corner is Carol Holman, right?

Let’s see what’s up:

• Just got this nice note from Lisa Adamo:

Jodi Calhoun is a very old and dear friend of mine.  Could you somehow, some way, find a way to wish her a very Happy Birthday from Lisa tomorrow (December 15th)?  I don’t have her email or phone any more, but I know that she’s there.  Thank you very much!

Hear the good cheer, dear....

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• The San Juan Singers are putting on their annual holiday show this weekend at the Community Theatre (Saturday at 7:30 & Sunday at 2) – see you there! Here’s more.

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• Gail at Cotton Cotton Cotton tells me:

Happy Holidays From First Street! The following First Street Shops will be open until 7:00pm on Thursdays until Christmas:

Cotton Cotton Cotton
Friday Harbor Trading Company
Howard’s Sell It Again
Ositos
Arctic Raven Gallery
Pelindaba Lavender
San Juan Florist

Some shops will be offering refreshments and discounts!  Come on out and see what we have for your Christmas Giving!

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The lights of the season on Spring Street come on as the full moon rises over the weekend, and dusk settles in...photo by Tamara Weaver

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• Hey, remember I mentioned the quarterpipe just installed & built at the Skatepark? Looks like they’re a little short covering expenses…if you’re a fan of the project like I am, drop a check off at Island Rec to show your support! Any amount is appreciated!

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The Food Bank has a special holiday giveaway this Saturday from 12-2, and is open next Wednesday from 12-2 as well.

• I dropped by the Food Bank yesterday to check with director Pat Vannest & see how things are going…she says the need for the FB is as high as ever. She opened a half hour early Wednesday because folks were waiting….

She mentioned that she could use a little more volunteer help (got some time? Drop by & check in with her!) and always can use donated food or cash to buy items in bulk.

I asked what were the income requirements to qualify, and she laughed & said, “You have to live in San Juan County!” She knows that some folks are just trying to stretch this month’s paycheck, while others need longer-term help. That’s why the Food Bank is there – to give a hand. Long as you’re a resident, come on by!

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Drop by & visit Jennifer Rigg at LOEA, in the Whidbey Bannk Building....photo by Tamara Weaver.

• It’s always good to hear from Update reporter Tamara Weaver – she reports she had a good visit with Michelle & Jenn, both committed animal lovers:

Jennifer Rigg loves what she does, making everything herself, and gets inspiration from her artsy mom, Jaime Ellsworth. Jennifer designed her first t-shirt at age 12 and started selling them in high school. She says “I found a way to do what I love for a living!” LOEA, located next to Whidbey Island Bank, and check out her new holiday-themed prints and $5 shirt rack!

Michelle will take good care of your pets....photo by Tamara Weaver

Meanwhile…going o’er the river and through the woods this Christmas?  Wondering who’ll take care of Kitty and Pooch while you’re away?  Dr. Michelle Loftus and the friendly staff at the Animal Inn are here for you!

Michelle says her pet guests enjoy “safe, social interaction and exercise in the quiet, relaxing comfort of the Inn.

“We care for the young and athletic, elderly or timid, offering indoor/outdoor runs, pampered pet suites, kitty condos and a kitty penthouse, as well as a special care room for close monitoring of your pet’s health if needed. Services available include bath, massage and acupuncture.”   Maybe I’ll stay with Michelle for a few days…sounds great!

Finally, I got to visit with Lenore Bayuk and Tom Cable at the Marketplace today doing their part for Peace Health and the new hospital.

They’re selling personalized bricks and garden benches to be used for the new hospital. Buy a brick for the one you love!

Lenore & Tom show off the brick....get yours! Photo by Tamara Weaver

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• Keeping art in our schools is essential – and it’s great that the IMA has embraced the challenge, and included Leisha in their plans – she makes amazing things happen. Here’s more from Jennifer Elise, the IMA director:

IMA Sponsors Art Enrichment Program at FHES

All children at Friday Harbor Elementary School will benefit from art education instruction this year thanks to an Art Enrichment Program sponsored by the Islands Museum of Art (IMA). FHES will be implementing the program January – June, 2012.  The Art Enrichment Program will consist of 6-week residencies in each class room with six teaching artists chosen from the community of San Juan Island artists. Leisha Holmes will act as the art coordinator.

“Arts education is critical to core learning and a priority for parents,” says Connie Martin, Principal of Friday Harbor Elementary School. “Study in the arts promotes visual literacy and problem solving skills and kids have the opportunity to express themselves in a positive way that is fun. Parents want more art for their children at FHES. I hear from them weekly.”

IMA has secured funding from several sources for this unique program, including the Washington State Arts Commission, the San Juan Island Community Foundation (SJICF), the Women’s Fund of the SJICF, and donations from the community. The IMA Board feels strongly that the education of young people in the community is critical and IMA is extremely proud to bring this program to the Elementary School and wishes to thank all those who have provided funding.

Local teaching artists who are interested in participating in the Art Enrichment Program should contact Leisha Homes, IMA Art Coordinator at [email protected] or Jennifer Elise, IMA Museum Director at [email protected]or (360) 370-5050.

Leisha Holmes

He'll be down from the North Pole...

Got this two-part note about the annual Christmas Island event from Santa & his crew – here’s the scoop for Saturday’s event for the kids, and Sunday’s Holiday Dance:

CHRISTMAS ISLAND
An evening with  Santa Claus
Saturday December 17th

Please join us at the Grange Hall for an old fashioned Christmas Celebration!

Doors open from 4-7pm
Inside, Santa will have beautiful teddy bears for every boy and girl….young and old.  Come join us around the crackling fire and listen to traditional Christmas stories, join our elves in Christmas caroling and nibble on some home-made cookies.  There are decorations for the children to make and trees they can help decorate.

Everyone is invited to this holiday festivity, and there is no charge or fee.  Your only obligation is to enjoy the spirit of Christmas and share a very old fashioned, traditional, simple, holiday celebration.

Anyone can e-mail Santa at: [email protected]

This event is not connected with any organization and is very simply
a gift from Santa in the spirit of Christmas.

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Then, on Sunday:

Holiday Dance at “Christmas Island”
Sunday, December 18^th
At the San Juan Island Grange Hall

Here’s your chance to get all dressed up in your Holiday Finery and glide yourself and your date across the dance floor by the flickering fire.

Paul & Mary-Brooke Barger will host an Intro To Waltz lesson at 4pm, with dancing to follow. The Grange will ring with a variety of music, suitable for all of your favorite dance moves.  Come and strut your stuff!!

The Grange Hall will be transformed into “Christmas Island”; a winter wonderland full of the magical spirit of Christmas, a crackling fire in the fireplace, Christmas caroling with Teddy Deane and Holiday Prom Photos will be provided by Photographer Mark Gardner.

What can you bring?  Your favorite Holiday finger-food and deserts and responsible beverage of your choice.

This is a fundraiser for the annual “Christmas Island,” a very traditional, old fashioned holiday celebration.  By supporting this quintessential islander event, you’re giving the spirit of Christmas to our island boys & girls and the young at heart by dancing the night away!

Admittance by donation.  Doors open from 4 – 8pm.
Questions?  Email [email protected]

David Ridgway, Red Barn, White Barn, Oil, 9 x 12

It’s the last Artists Talk of the season today at Waterworks Gallery – here’s more from Ruth:

Please join me Thursday, December 15th at 4pm to meet and listen to Lisa Gilley and David Ridgway. They will talk about their passions for painting, and answer your questions. They interpret and paint the Islands and the Pacific Northwest in their own styles.

Compare the skies, the buildings and the land and see a style, a vision that is unique to each artist.

Their paintings are part of the Northwest art scene, romancing the land, the sky with paint and brush that speaks of their love of this area.

This will be the last in our series of Artist Talks. Refreshments will be served.

What a wonderful year this has been!
Thank you for your continued support of the Gallery.

Lisa Gilley, Rocky Shore, Oil, 8 x 10

Always loved Jewel, and always loved her version of O, Holy Night….

Great to catch up with Craig & Krispi yesterday as they checked Facebook...they keep up with daughter Sarah Joy (FHHS '96) in Costa Rica...as well as 10-week-old Helena, three-year-old Gabriel, and papa Julio as well - ¡Feliz Navidad!

Only ten days till Christmas! Only seven till Solstice! Only two & half weeks till 2012! Only two minutes till the coffee’s ready! Let’s get this day going:

The moon rose over Brown Island as the Lighted Boat Parade got underway on Sunday evening...not sure if the ferry was in the parade or just watching...

• I’m hearing that a bunch of stores on First Street are staying open till 7pm tomorrow (Thursday), with specials & food & cookies & all things good…I’ll see if I can get the names, but it’s best if you go check yourself. I know Pelindaba, Cotton Cotton Cotton, and The Trading Company are on the list, and Be Chic has their holiday party (everybody welcome!) around the corner….

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• Give. Blood Drive is today at the Mullis Center from 12-6pm.

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• The Deception Pass 25K run was this past weekend, and it makes us all proud that so many islanders gave it a go – Meghan Foss Hoffman, Kathleen Richards Foley, Stacie Lenhart Tangney, Shannon Ford Miniken, Susan Stehn, Kristi Richardson, Debbie Rishel, Kaitlyn Johnson, Katie Dillery, and Clark Gilbert. Here are the final results for this trail run – way to go, you guys!

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Sunrise Tuesday morning, with Mount Rainier over Griffin Bay...photo by Aaron Shepard

• I love Aaron Shepard’s photos…here’s more.

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