Women in Business WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2009 • The Islands’ Sounder
A salute to Orcas Island’s business women & their contributions to the community
www.ISLANDSSOUNDER.com • women in Business
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An Orcas Island institution finds new flavors
Colleen Armstrong photo
Jill Blankenship of Frontline Call Center in Eastsound.
by JENNIFER BRENNOCK
Frontline Call Center
Staff reporter
F
or 14 years, Maureen Mullen came regularly to Orcas Island. “But only if I couldn’t get to Rome,” Mullen joked. More than a year ago, Mullen became a permanent islander when she purchased Christina’s restaurant in Eastsound. Mullen says her transition was easy because of the good support of friends she already had here. “Orcas was my home away from home,” she said. Mullen moved from Seattle, where she had a variety of roles before her culinary career took shape. She has been an art history and anthropology student, a loan processor, an insurance accountant, and a customer service representative for a bike messenger service. As the owner of Christina’s, Mullen knows what her locals like to drink, when they’re likely to come by the bar, and
Jill Blankenship has been in business since 2005, with offices in Eastsound.
contributed photo
Maureen Mullen of Christina’s restaurant. where everyone prefers to sit. There are two north-facing windows in her upstairs bar. Mullen knows who likes to sit above the streets of Eastsound, occasionally drawing glances from passersby below, and who prefers the other street-side window with a more discreet view for people watching. Patrons who climb the
wood’S cove has
"gone beachy"
Surf into the Shop to See all my beach collectionS. mermaidS, mirrorS, frameS, candleS, vaSeS, pottery, coaStal kitchen, nautical replicaS, beach glaSS, bookS, note cardS
And no sand in your undies at this beach!
376 • 2900
www.gonebeachy.com www.woodScove.com
stairs to Christina’s for fine dining and a view of Fishing Bay find a menu created by artists. Mullen believes food is the most inspiring of artistic mediums because it can only be experienced in the moment it will be consumed and leaves behind nothing but a sense memory. “Food is the ultimate palate for artists because it uses
Taking calls from across the globe by COLLEEN SMITH ARMSTRONG Editor
A
fter working in retail and real estate on Orcas, Jill Blankenship wanted to start a business that didn’t depend on the seasons to bring in a higher volume of customers.
Wedding & Event Planning Consultation to Brides & Businesses Wedding Sites Group Accommodation Catering & Vendor Selection 360.622.6299 An invitation from a cute island boy and (as is typical for us “imports”) a summer job brought me here 11 years ago. Each of the two adventures weaved themselves so importantly into my life that I found my family, my career, and my home here. From planning my own Orcas Island Wedding, and also as Director of Catering and Conference Services at Rosario Resort & Spa, I became very aware of the challenges and supreme luxuries involved with destination events. During my 10+ years with the resort I thoroughly enjoyed booking, planning, and overseeing over 200 events a year - including weddings, corporate retreats, local parties, and more. I’ll add two children and my French Bulldog Marley to my resume as well! I look forward to helping brides, meeting planners, and island businesses meet the needs of each other... seamlessly. I’m passionate about finding ways to help islanders increase, improve, and manage their wedding and group business. Let me know if you need a hand. You might also find me behind the scenes of my husband Skyler’s bamboo nursery, Island-Boy Bamboo. Cheers to the Island Lifestyle!
“I also wanted to provide steady employment for people here, including myself,” she said. So in December of 2005, Blankenship opened Frontline Call Center in Eastsound with five employees. She now has 42 on staff and provides service to companies across the country. The business just branched out to Australia and the U.K. Frontline takes inbound calls for companies and handles order processing, customer support, technical assistance, and healthcare support. Sixteen of Blankenship’s employees live in the San Juans, while the rest are scattered throughout the U.S. About 40 percent are full-time, and the others work
between 10 and 30 hours a week. “It’s a good opportunity for someone who wants to supplement their income,” Blankenship said. “We provide an excellent work-athome community for people no matter where they’re located. Our tag line has been, ‘Work from the comfort of your own island.’” After her team is trained to take calls for a specific company, managers supervise and provide quality assurance by real time monitoring, call report review, and listening to recordings of calls. Clients can view real time call logs to monitor activity on their account. See blankenship, A8
Custom Sewing for You and Your Home
Beth Baker
I
376-4567
t hardly seems possible but I have been a professional Seamstress and pattern maker for over 25 years. During those years I have worked for professional theatres, interior designers and clothing designers, enabling me to develop a wide range of skills. Sew Like The Wind was created when I arrived on Orcas in 1994. From repairing your backpack, to creating your dream custom wedding gown, to freshening your home with new slipcovers, pillows and window treatments, I can help you with your custom sewing needs. Please feel free to call me for a consultation! sewlikethewind@rockisland.com
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www.ISLANDSSOUNDER.com • women in Business
My name is Carla Weston. I run Island Psychiatric services as a solo psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and treatment to adults and adolescents 16 and older who need help with different types of emotional problems. Among the things I treat are severe depression, mood disorders including bipolar disorder, various anxiety disorders including panic disorder, schizophrenia, post traumatic stress disorder and attention deficit disorder. Evaluations provide diagnosis and recommendations. Treatment may include prescription medication , therapy recommendations, or other referrals depending on the person’s needs. I began accepting patients in October of 2007 and today the practice is thriving. In addition to seeing people in my office in Eastsound, I am also the mental health provider at Islands Convalescent Center and accept referrals and see patients from practitioners at the Inter Island Medical Center in Friday Harbor. I accept payment from most insurance companies, along with Medicare, Labor and Industries, and private pay. For those who don’t know what a nurse practitioner is, we are advanced practice nurses with a graduate degree and hundreds of clinical hours in a chosen specialty. Nurse practitioners in WA are required to be nationally certified and state licensed to legally practice. They practice under their own license which includes writing prescriptions, providing therapy and consultation appropriate to their specialty. My thirty plus years of experience in mental health is rich and varied and I feel comfortable working with complex psychiatric problems with adults of all ages. I continue to have a special interest in working with older adults and adults with dementia. Having lived here for two years has proven a positive experience for my husband, Don and me. We are still in the process of finishing our house on the North shore. We now have seven grandchildren and our families are frequent visitors. I am active in the Orcas Lions Club and enjoy volunteering with others in the community. I have found that the people on Orcas are an interesting diverse group of individuals. My patient load is varied and every person I see feels a sense of responsibility to give back for the services I provide. This is unique and I am honored to serve such a community. My continuing goal is to make a positive contribution to the community by providing a complementary service to the existing healthcare system on the islands. I will work with any individuals willing to help themselves. I am a strong advocate for my patients, and strongly believe that being emotionally healthy is interconnected with being physically healthy. Contact information: Island Psychiatric Services is located at 374 North Beach Road, Suite D4 in Eastsound, WA Call 376-3558 for appointments. FAX number 376-2199. Mailing address: PO Box 1449, Eastsound, WA 98245 Web site: islandpsych.com e-mail: Carla@islandpsych.com
Mary Jane Elgin In forty years I could never have imagined that I would be opening my own art gallery in Eastsound, WA! But when my husband and I fell in love with a little garage-less house on the shore in Deer Harbor, the idea of an off-site studio turned into a necessity. A short mental jump brought me to the idea of a combined studio/gallery/ teaching space, and with that in mind Mary Jane Ceramics was born. My concept of creating a space that is inviting and inspiring, a comfortable place in which to create, had become a reality. Over the last thirty years I have taught children, including our own six, and adults in and out of the classroom, but my favorite place to teach and create has always been in my garden and around my kitchen table. Although I don't have my kitchen table with me in the studio, the lovely and ever changing gardens at The Village Plaza have brought joy, visual stimulation, wonder, and appreciation of the natural world into my art space. A graduate of Pomona College, I worked out of my home as a calligrapher, designer, mural painter and weaver while creating and rearing our large brood (perhaps my best work!). I started experimenting with clay in a more serious way in the 90's, and about six years ago, in a fit of boredom, began cutting into my pots to create "landscape" bowls. This was possibly the most fun and creative art I had ever done! And definitely helped fill my "empty nest" with vessels I could mother and brood over. So now I'm a new business owner and wondering how this is going to work. Please come in to share you insights, sign up for a class, or just to say “Hello”.
360-376-4014 maryjaneceramics.com
Katie Blaine As an attorney for over 19 years, I bring a wide variety of experience to my family law practice. I began my career with appellate law for Judge Petrich at the Washington State Court of Appeals before moving to a large firm and general practice in Pierce County for 5 years. After relocating to the beautiful San Juan Islands to raise a family in 1997, I worked in private practice and for DSHS, helping families experiencing abuse and neglect. I am dedicated to helping clients through divorce and child custody related issues and am truly grateful that my experiences make it possible for me to do so. Katherine E. Blaine, Attorney at Law Law Office of Katherine E. Blaine, PLLC P.O. Box 97 Eastsound, WA 98245 (360) 376-5234 phone (360) 376-5235 facsimile kblaine@centurytel.net
WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2009 • The Islands’ Sounder
Blankenship CONTINUED FROM A7
“One minute we can be taking an order for a company and the next minute troubleshooting a technical issue,” Blankenship said. “I enjoy the diversity and not being limited. I like that we can have clients literally anywhere in the world.” Blankenship credits her business’s growth with two employees: Carolyn Diepstraten and Tracy Leahy. “They have been key elements in the success of the company. Tracy just bought a house on Orcas, and it was possible because of her work with Frontline.” Blankenship moved to Orcas 12 years ago from Kansas City with her three children. After going through a divorce, she was trying to find a new town to move to, when her mom, who had been coming to Orcas in the summer with her girlfriends for years, suggested the San Juans. “I came here, fell in love, and bought a house,” Blankenship said. “I wanted a safe place to raise my kids as a single mom, so that was the motivation for moving here.” Blankenship was on the Economic Development Committee for two years, and
is still on the Orcas Chamber board. She works out at the gym, and just got a new set of workout buddies: her employees. “I just started offering employees membership to the gym, so I have a lot of people to work out with now,” she said. Blankenship’s son Jeffrey graduated from the Orcas Christian School this past June. His twin sister Loralee just had a baby, is finishing her GED, and is working at Children’s House. Blankenship’s youngest, 16-year-old Christopher, is going into the job corps this September. He’ll be living in Wolf Creek, Ore., completing an automotive technician program. Blankenship just launched a new branch of her business, eattendance (eattendanceonline.com), a software application that manages and schedules employee shifts for large corporations with more than 100 people on staff. Kevin Caroll designed the software, and Blankenship has been handling the marketing. “Most of the communication I have with clients is done over the phone and email,” Blankenship said. “These are big contracts. Technology is where it’s at today. People trust the virtual interface and the possibilities are limitless.”
maybe busses your table,” Mullen said. “If they need help in the kitchen, I will CONTINUED FROM A7 drop everything to shuck oysters.” every single sense,” Mullen Mullen admits her dark said. “People have had great sense of humor balances the meals here and they repeat stressful business of a resthem.” taurant. She uses it to keep In the 14 months that she herself and her has owned staff cool under Christina’s, the pressure of a the menu has Christina’s dining room full of developed a hungry patrons. Restauraut new tradition “I’m not a Mullen has that plays with screamer,” said not changed the tastes of the Mullen. “It takes a this about the Mediterranean. lot to get me angry. menu: the Buck One thing has In the kitchen, Bay oysters. not changed: there’s not enough the Buck Bay time when you oysters. have tickets rolling “We go through so many in and it’s hot and you’re oysters,” said Mullen, who working hard. It’s tough on has occasionally gone the body. But in the front through as many as seven of the house you have to dozen in a day. be smiling and making sure Mullen attributes the popu- everyone’s food is perfect larity of Christina’s oysters to and everyone is having a their lemon and horseradish good time. It’s like being on mignonette sauce. stage.” “This sauce is perfect. The When Mullen is not at the lemon provides the right helm of a bustling restaurant amount of acid and freshness and bar, she is drinking wine with a good amount of heat at home with her roommate from the horseradish to com- and Christina’s chef, felpliment the oyster.” low Seattle import Angela Mullen is involved in all Emery. areas of her restaurant. “If we’re not cooking, that’s “I’m the one who greets what we do. Sit around and you, pours your drink, and talk about food,” Mullen said.
mullen
WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2009 • The Islands’ Sounder
Sarah Coffelt Moonglow Arts & Crafts
Two years after Moonglow Arts & Crafts opened, owner Sarah Coffelt is proud to say that you will still be greeted with a smile when you walk through the door. Sarah has spent the majority of her life on Orcas Island along with her husband and daughter. After graduating Sarah began her Bookkeeping business. A love of crafting and beading led to the opening of Moon Glow Arts & Crafts as well. Two years ago Sarah stated that her goal was to make crafting and art supplies available to islanders at affordable prices. Today she is proud to have met and maintained that goal. With the large selection of products ranging from school supplies, craft kits, and toys the store has become a hit with the kids and caters to teenagers as well with lots of stickers, and patches. Adults can get lost in whatever they fancy from scrapbooking and stamp supplies, art supplies, soap and candle making, and even those hard to find on island sewing supplies! The beading and jewelry findings section has continued to grow as well as scrapbooking supplies tailored to the island. Need a Vikings logo for the game pictures you are scrapbooking? Look no further. New this month is the Party Room. After hearing about a need for party supplies on island Moonglow now offers everything from Piñatas, streamers, baby shower games and more in various party themes. You are invited to stop by the store and see the exciting things offered including the workroom and class schedule. Feed back is always appreciated and has helped the store become the success it is today. Many thanks to all you artistic and crafty islanders!
Specialty Foods & Gifts
for the Adventurous Chef Lisa A. Trifiro Owner & Alchemist www.orcasalchemy.com “WELL-BEHAVED WOMEN SELDOM MAKE HISTORY” - Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
Orcas Alchemy would like to thank Lori Wix and Siouxz Duncan, the mother-daughter team behind Aesthetica, the most artful boutique on Orcas. Come see their 40 local artists and other unique gifts, including Orcas Alchemy’s sugars & salts.
269 Main Street, Eastsound
www.ISLANDSSOUNDER.com • women in Business
An abiding
presence
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O R C A S I S L A N D R E A L T Y llc Located next to the Historical Museum on North Beach Road
By COLLEEN SMITH ARMSTRONG Editor
W
hen Rachel Newcombe made the switch from teacher to therapist, she knew it was a natural transition. “It was an extension of working with parents and kids,” she said. “I had a firsthand look at the human condition.” Newcombe grew up in New Jersey, and lived in New York for 25 years before moving to Orcas in the winter of 2005. She earned her first master’s degree from Columbia, and after teaching fourth grade at a private school for several years, she decided to return to school for a second master’s degree in social work. Newcombe then earned a post-graduate certificate in psychoanalysis. She says her two loves are psychoanalysis and education, and adds, “Of course, in New York everyone sees an analyst. The question is not, ‘Are you in analysis?’ but, ‘Who do you see for analysis?’” She finds her work gratifying because she “has the privilege to work so intimately with people as they try to make meaning of their lives.” Newcombe sees adults, couples, and young adults. She has an office on Orcas and in Friday Harbor, where she goes one day a week. As a long-time city dweller, Newcombe still has to adjust to living on an island. “The difference between
contributed photo
Psychoanalyst Newcombe.
Rachel
practicing on Orcas versus New York is that there is no anonymity,” she said. “In New York I was in private practice for almost 16 years and I hardly ever saw a patient outside of the office. Here I run into patients all the time. It’s a change, but it’s been really good for me.” When Newcombe first moved to Orcas, she called local therapists to introduce herself, and started a study group that has been meeting weekly for four years. Newcombe is still tapping into her love of teaching; in 2006 she taught a psychology class at the high school, and she is on the board of directors for the International Forum for Psychoanalytic Education and is co-chair of a conference in November in Seattle. Several Orcas theraSee Newcombe, A12
Mandy Nigretto After years of living and working on Orcas I reached a point where it was comfortable to return to school and start my own business. With the full support of my family and encouragement of friends, I was able to become a hair stylist and salon owner. I offer a full range of salon services and products for my clients. I have developed relationships with my clients and a stronger connection to the community. Please contact me at Mandy’s Hair Haven, 376.7376, Monday through Friday from 9 to 5 for an appointment.
From Left: Kristen Zbornik, Mary Clure, Kelly Boetger, Lisa Wolford, and Deborah Hansen
Orcas Island Realty continues to post strong sales statistics, and to enjoy a leadership position within the local real estate industry. All of our clients – buyers and sellers alike – benefit from our experience, integrity and our willingness to find creative solutions to the challenges posed by market fluctuations. We enjoy what we do and believe that makes a difference. We encourage you to join the ranks of satisfied Orcas Island Realty customers. 360.376.2145
PO Box 171, Eastsound, WA 98245 www.orcasislandrealty.com
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www.ISLANDSSOUNDER.com • women in Business
Persian Rugs Accent Accessories, Antiques, Gifts, Jewelry, Orientalia, Furniture
JILLERY
Located in our House MaLL (360) 376-4538 Kay Morgan MiLLer owner I have enjoyed seeing the community thrive and being an active volunteer in many organizations. My shop focus is to have just the right thing for my customers – from antiques, collectibles, furniture, accent accessories, jewelry, Persian rugs (which are a particular interest of mine), and other treasures of the heart – to help give our lives more sparkle. I’ve been in business on Orcas since 1974, which probably makes me the oldest business on the island.
“About six years ago when I was waiting tables at Ship Bay, it occurred to me that I no longer cared if the people were enjoying their dinners. That’s when I decided it was time to get out of the restaurant business. About the same time, a friend of mine showed me a turquoise bracelet that needed sizing. I had just restrung a cheap beaded necklace that broke the first time I wore it, and was feeling rather proud of myself, so I told her I thought I could fix it. I fixed it..... but made it better! I bought some beads and started making some bracelets, which were quickly grabbed up by friends and family who actually gave me MONEY for them. So I quit my job. Then, Ginny Lou at Wood’s Cove said she’d carry them in her store! After that was successful, I began selling my work myself at holiday fairs, occasional trunk shows, and at the Saturday Farmers’ Market. I was a partner with a consortium of other women artists in the short-lived venture, “Plan B”. That experience convinced me that a year-round outlet for my jewelry might be viable. I started watching for a space that could also function as a gallery to showcase the work of local artists, and finally in the summer of 2008, I opened “Jillery” on Main Street in Eastsound. I display my own jewelry as well as work from over 20 Orcas artists in a variety of creative media These artists appreciate the exposure, and I am honored to have their work displayed in my shop where I can enjoy being surrounded by beautiful things while I “play”. (Making jewelry is not work to me. My brilliant husband, Roger, does the “work” part. He keeps the books and pays the bills.)
It is extremely gratifying that people appreciate jewelry that is a joy for me to create. I am also pleased to be able to offer a venue for other artists and have a store that showcases a variety of the very talented individuals in this community. This is something I never dreamed I would be doing! I feel very lucky.”
-Jill Curtiss
Rev. Shawn Ann Shelton Conscious Ceremonies & Sacred Vows
Officiating the Rituals of Our Lives
W
ell, here we are in the full swing of summer and the B & b’s are buzzing with guests coming to the Islands. I’m in my 18th year of innkeeping and still find it exciting to meet visitors from all over the world. - V Gail Koher Check out my website at: www.doublemountainbandb.com 660 Double Hill Road P.O. Box 614 Eastsound, WA 98245 (360) 376-4570
While I strive to be prolific in creating enough jewelry to keep the shop full, I am also dedicated to an effort of having each piece be unique. With a vast array of materials in a myriad of colors and shapes, the possibilities are endless, and it seems I always have more design ideas in my head than I have hours to build them. I also believe that looking nice and accessorizing is for all, so I try to keep my offerings affordable. I believe that I have succeeded in being able to provide an extensive selection that offers something for everyone. I enjoy working with my customers to create custom items that bring to life a concept that they have imagined.
WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2009 • The Islands’ Sounder
When you love your workout, results come easily. Jazzercise combines elements of Free intro. Start any time. jazz dance, resistance Call Paige at 376-3310 training, Pilates, yoga, kickboxing, and more to create truly effective programs for people of every age and fitness level. On Orcas Island, choose among 5 classes each week. You’ll love this workout. Pricing as low as $20 per month!
Paige Mccormick
Oddfellows Hall
Eastsound, WA
• Wedding Vows: Classic or Non-Traditional • Re-Newing Vows: Marriage, Family, Anniversaries • Sacred Ceremonies: Birth, Memorial, Blessings of New Home or Workplace
We know of a variety of “Special Places” on Orcas Island for ceremonies, receptions, accommodations for all seasons of the year. For More Information Contact: The Rev. Shawn Ann Shelton shawnshelton@rockisland.com
– 360.376.8700 P.O. Box 188 – Eastsound, WA 98345 Orcas Island
WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2009 • The Islands’ Sounder
www.ISLANDSSOUNDER.com • women in Business
Michell Marshall
The Office Cupboard I remember my first day of school. My father came up to me before I left for that long walk to school and said, “Shorty” (the nickname he gave me), “always remember you will need to be better than anyone else, because they will expect you to be mediocre.” That’s a lot of responsibility for a 6 year old, but I somehow understood what he meant. My father’s goal was to raise successful children, and he taught us that being average would never suffice. I like to think that he was echoing to me what he had learned from his stepmother, who was a college professor. We needed to try every day, in every way, to make ourselves better and better. That advice has followed me throughout my years in school and in the working world. It still inspires me today, as I try to make my shop better and better. As I grew older, my father was not only a father, but also a mentor and friend. When I was accepted into Seattle University, he knew what I wanted to do with my life. My idealistic dream was to work in the business world, and to be part of a cohesive team that would drive innovative ideas, develop creative solutions, pursue excellence, and ultimately drive profits through the roof – all the while, of course, having lots of fun pursuing success after success. That was the dream, but of course the reality was bound to be much tougher. As I entered the business world it was my father, the Boeing engineer, who taught me what I would need to know to be successful in the corporate world. I would have to distinguish myself from others, find creative ways to stand out as an exceptional performer. I would need mentors on top. Male mentors, he advised, because in those days only men were in the top positions. Working in the corporate world was very exciting. At each company I was able to connect with good mentors who helped me gain recognition and move ahead. As I sought to develop my own identity, I loved rolling up my sleeves and competing toe to toe with the men, making my case for principles or policies or strategies I believed in. The most important thing I learned was to compete with myself, to always strive to be better and better. When we focus on competing with others, we lose focus on our own goals, and we become mediocre. I no longer have my father to mentor me. I no longer have corporate execs to bounce ideas off of. Now that I’m running a small business and must figure out on my own how to get better and better, I realize how much I have benefited over the years from the advice and counsel of others. I miss that now, and I’m sure many of my business colleagues here on Orcas feel the same need. But it has been both gratifying and rewarding to see how many of us here, in our small little business community, find ways to share, to act as sounding boards, and to give and receive advice from each other. As we work hard to improve our businesses, we can sometimes become too focused on operational details to step back and think about the big picture. Ironically, it seems that when we talk to our peers about business challenges, we find it more natural to think about the big picture. I like to think I’m wiser than I was when I entered first grade. I’ve tried to teach my son the lessons I was taught, hoping I was able to do as well as my father had done for me. I wish he were still alive, so I could ask him how confident he had been in the advice he gave to me half a century ago. I suspect he’d just laugh and say, he was just trying to be the best parent he could be at the time, and he’s still trying to get better and better at giving advice. Whatever role we are playing, we can always get better.
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Making quality medical care available to everyone on Orcas Island.
Jean Bried, PA-C, MPH, focuses on women’s healthcare at Orcas Medical Center. Physician Assistant (PA-C) Jean Bried of Orcas Medical Center (OMC) has focused on women’s healthcare issues for most of her career, since studying and working extensively at the Emory University School of Medicine, in Atlanta, during the 1980’s and 1990’s. She also holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Emory.
“Women need to be equally, if not more, concerned than men.” “Women need to be aware that their bodies may respond differently than men’s bodies to the same diseases, conditions and treatments,” said Bried recently. “So women need to be equally, if not more, concerned (than men) with maintaining the general health of their bodies – to prevent heart disease, lung conditions and strokes, for example.”
Call 376-2561 for an appointment. Bried welcomes patients of all ages, from pre-teens to seniors, and she has extensive experience in women’s healthcare issues, family planning and pregnancy counseling. Women’s Health Appointments can be scheduled with Orcas Medical Center her by calling Orcas Medical Center.
“Jean is an important member of the OMC team.” “Our medical center is staffed to provide quality medical care for everyone on Orcas Island,” said Dr. Anthony Giefer, OMC medical director. “We have two full-time physicians, two physician assistants, two registered nurses and one medical assistant, all working in the most fully equipped medical facility on the island. Jean is an important member of the OMC team.”
221 “A” Street • Post Office Building
376-2378
www.orcasmedicalcenter.com
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A creative space
for Mary Jane
by JENNIFER BRENNOCK Staff reporter
M
oving from southern California to Orcas a year ago, Mary Jane Elgin admits she
loves the weather of Orcas. “It feels refreshing and wonderful,” Elgin said. “Other than the ice, we love it. For us, it was so different.” Elgin and her husband,
Christine Booth, owner of
NatureWorks, is an Artist who embraces whatever task she’s involved in with single minded purpose, concentration, and passion. As an artist, Christine utilizes a unique blend of techniques appropriate to her subject matter (nature and capturing in detail the image and interaction of the subjects in their environs) and mediums (tiles, papers, and madrone skins). Her art is currently on display at the Orcas Community Church Family Center. Christine is available for commissioning your favorite scene or subject. Not to be satisfied with only one passion, Christine is an award winning gardener, landscape consultant, barber, USCG licensed captain, and outdoor enthusiast. If you are lucky enough to sit down and talk with Christine, you will find her relaxed, friendly and focused on your conversation. With exuberant energy, Christine seizes life, applying her talents for the enjoyment of others as well as herself. Please contact her at 360 381-4010 natureworks.christine@gmail.com
BOSSY’S FELTWORKS Amy Lum, Kari Van Gelder, Mandy Troxel, and the Bossy Flock.
Thanks to all those who’ve stopped by our booth at the Farmer’s Market this season. We love seeing you!
Come visit us Saturdays at the
Farmer’s Market or at December’s
Artisan’s Faire or at our online store www.bossysfeltworks.etsy.com www.bossysfeltworks.com (360) 376-5063
www.ISLANDSSOUNDER.com • women in Business
painter Bruce Wilson, had to get accustomed to putting on chains to get in and out of their Spring Point home this winter. After visiting Orcas several times, Elgin fell in love with a house on the water and moved in last September. There was one problem. Artists need space and the house on the water had no garage. Elgin was soon on the hunt for a place to put her kiln and work on her delicately designed ceramics. She and Wilson found and renovated a former spa behind Enzo’s in Village Plaza. Elgin, who had taught art in her Altadena garden, felt the new Eastsound space, with its towering hollyhocks and bobbing daisies beside the door, was the best place
for her studio and gallery, Mary Jane Ceramics. “This felt right with such nice light coming in,” Elgin said. To become the space she and Wilson envisioned – a working studio and gallery more than a shop with a lot of foot traffic – they cut long rectangular holes through the walls to open up the back room. Now the space spotlights, and floodlights, their own work as well as the photography of their youngest daughter, Kaylie Wilson. Elgin graduated from Pomona College in 1971 as an art major, as she said, “in the midst of hippies and the Vietnam War.” She explained she might have focused on ceramics in college but found she couldn’t throw away anything beautiful, and
WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2009 • The Islands’ Sounder
ceramics were hard to store. Instead, Elgin painted and wove, because the results were things a college student could store more easily. Elgin wanted to learn more about ceramics, so she enrolled in a community class in 1994 and continued the same class each year until she moved to Orcas. At Mary Jane Ceramics, Elgin continues to do what she’s done most of her life: teach art. She hosts ceramics classes of six children or adults at a time, which focuses on hand-building, bisque firing, and second firing with nontoxic glazes. Elgin finds teaching children and adults to work with ceramics requires some differentiation. “Kids work fast, and adults need less project direction.
Every Woman Deserves a Poem by River Malcolm I want to tell you how beautiful you are in such a true and unforgettable way that you will never doubt it again. It will be as though through the lens of the poem you will suddenly see: yourself, truly the whole of you, naked. It will be as though you are walking alone in the woods when a great blue heron lifts into the air, or a single wild orchid blooms, or the moon shines down on still water, and it is enough. Your heart stops. You are left grateful, simply for being alive. It will be your own beauty this time taking you so suddenly and by surprise, the mysterious beauty of your entire life carefully inscribed in your body. It will be as though the poem becomes your dream lover, caresses your skin with absolute tenderness, lights up with it’s touch every cell in your body, enters you with a gasp of astonished desire, plunges deep into the secret at the center of who you are. RIVER MALCOLM, M.S.
LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST CERTIFIED SOLUTION PROVIDER
360-376-4548
contributed photo
Mary Jane Elgin
The adult students need more of a facilitator because they come in with their own ideas already,” she said. Elgin has spent her life working in the arts. She has been a freelance designer, a calligraphist, a muralist, and has installed weavings on commission. Now there is a single focus: ceramics. “At this point, ceramics has almost completely taken over my creative expression,” Elgin said. “I love working with refined and exacting technique that is surrendered to the kiln god in the end. Just like life, put in the effort, in great measure, and see what you get.”
newcombe CONTINUED FROM A9
pists are planning to attend the event, which is titled “Daring to Speak: Languages Spoken and Unspoken.” Newcombe says psychoanalysis is about inquiry, not “it’s broken, let’s fix it.” “It’s also belief in the unconscious and seeing how unconscious patterns and conflicts affect the present,” she said. “Every single human being tries to make sense of the human condition. Everyone struggles with being lonely and staying an individual while fitting into the group.” Newcombe still misses New York, but enjoys island life too. She says her daughter Addie, who is 15, loves living on Orcas. When describing how she helps people, Newcombe relayed a story. “Recently we were swimming at the lake with our friend Carol Anderson. She wanted me to swim out to the island, and I said no. I was scared because I almost drowned once. Instead of telling me, ‘Don’t be afraid,’ she just swam next to me and was there for me. We made it to the island and I was fine. And that’s what I do for my patients. I am an abiding presence for them.”
WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2009 • The Islands’ Sounder
I’ve been the owner for 25 years, and Darvill’s Bookstore continues to weather the ebbs and tides of retailing and the changing world. My staff and I thrive on the challenge to remain interesting and relevant in this digital age. I’ve been running a tight ship lately, renewing my focus and examining what it is about holding a real book or rustling an actual newspaper that is so meaningful to those of us who work here and to our customers. I’m convinced there is still a need for independent bookstores in the world, and one of those places is Orcas Island. The loyalty and commitment of our local customers has been critical to our ability to thrive. I’m developing a website that I hope will have a similar effect. You will be able to access Darvill’s from wherever you are around the world or even just at home on Orcas. My daughter Kate is off to law school, and Chris and Winston continue to be my strength at home. I still love to exercise early in the morning - running around Mountain lake is a great way to wake up. After all these years, I’m excited each morning to open the store and see what the new day will bring. - Jenny Pederson Darvill’s Bookstore
www.ISLANDSSOUNDER.com • women in Business
Page A13
The Remarkable Women Of
Windermere Do you know which one of us...
Orcas Island canvas and saIls Tara Hubbard, the
owner of Orcas Island Canvas and Sails, has been an avid sailor and boater for nearly her entire life. After working in a sail loft in Seattle for 8 years, Tara established her own Orcas Island based canvas company, specializing in marine canvas and sail repairs. Tara has designed, created and repaired customized canvas for boats, awnings, outdoor bathtubs, outdoor furniture, and even a saw mill! She loves to design and construct typical and unusual projects, and welcomes even the most unique and creative opportunities. Tara offers pick up and delivery service. She can be reached at 376.7245 (SAIL) and orcasislandcanvas@gmail.com.
Susan Chapman
Radio Shack 376-6939 Chappy’s 376-4111
It has now been two years since we’ve been running Chappy’s and Radio Shack together. The years have flown by but I think I found a balance with both businesses. As a mother of 3, a wife and an employer, my multitasking skills have been tested. Thank goodness for our employees who have been very loyal and hardworking. Sometimes my head is so clouded that it feels like I’m not to going to be able to handle it but I have to step back and breathe and know that this too shall pass. As one of the many women business owners here on Orcas I just want to say…
YOU GO GIRL!!
Played a leading role in a made for TV pilot trailer...Lived in Las Vegas for 32 years and worked in medical imaging for 15 years...Is a second generation Realtor...Lived aboard a sailboat for nearly 4 years...Her relative was one of the creators of Scrabble...Her father named a large natural lake after her in Alaska...Ran and completed the Portland Marathon...Graduated high school in Rome, Italy…Her first visit to Orcas Island was to attend a week long silent retreat at Camp Orkila in 1986...Has been a student/instructor of Iyengar yoga for more than 30 years...Was a Playboy Bunny and worked in New Orleans and Atlanta...Follows a vegan diet, but loves sloppy joes...Is currently serving her Country in Afghanistan...Traced Thomas Jefferson’s European tour through France 208 years later...
360.376.8000
www.Orcas-Island.com
Info@Orcas-Island.com
Page A14
www.ISLANDSSOUNDER.com • women in Business
CAROL SUTTON
Limitless Possibilities!
Jill Blankenship
Thinking outside the box to develop businesses that don’t rely on our seasonal visitors has been my goal the past four years. Providing year round employment for Orcas residents, challenging career opportunities and developing a professional community are the accomplishments I’m most proud of. Below are the businesses that have been created to date: www.frontlinecallcenter.com FRONTLINE CALL CENTER specializes in providing flexible, high quality customer support outsourcing solutions with an emphasis on inbound and outbound communication channels encompassing phone, live chat and e-mail. Headquartered in Eastsound, Washington and founded in 2005, we provide an array of sophisticated customer contact management solutions to companies across the country, primarily in the following industries: Order Processing Technical Support – Help Desk Support Healthcare and Medical Support Back Office Administration Our business strategy encompasses building long-term client relationships, capitalizing on our expert response team and leveraging our depth of relevant experience. Our growing success is largely dependent upon the efforts, direction and guidance of our senior management who have years of proven call center experience - one of our key strengths. FRONTLINE CALL CENTER has assembled a winning team of subject matter and skill based experts. www.eattendanceonline.com We are committed to providing feature-rich, top-quality workforce management services at very competitive rates and we pride ourselves for being extremely responsive and available to our customers. Contact us today to find out how we can save your company time and money. Offering a unique approach of scheduling the shift, not just the employee, eAttendance delivers unrivaled features utilizing the latest Web 2.0 technologies, including maximum visibility of all defined and scheduled shifts, point and click scheduling of open shifts, shift requests and approvals, PTO requests, and shift swapping, as well as associated labor costs and overtime - all through one browser screen. Broadcasts, e-mails and text messages are automatically sent to employees in order to notify and fill open shifts efficiently - eliminating manager time spent calling and pressuring employees, as well as increasing accountability across the organization. www.tier3technology.com Business Hosting Solutions – 24/7 Managed Hosting: Build and customize the Managed Hosting solution that's right for you. We offer several base server configurations for you to choose from. These range from value servers ideal for low to medium traffic websites, all the way up to enterprise servers for high traffic websites and computerintensive applications. Dedicated Hosting: Our Dedicated Hosting division delivers powerful dedicated servers, convenient server management tools, and 24/7 Support all on our IT infrastructure. Prices start at just $125/mo. If you want complete control and root access to your dedicated server without any managed support services, Dedicated Hosting is right for you. Eliminating managed support services saves you money that can be used towards other areas like web development, design, and marketing. Colocation: We offer a complete range of highly secure Colocation cabinets and private cages to accommodate your equipment. Sizes range from a 1/8 locking cabinet to full locking cabinet, to customized cages. Each comes equipped with proper cooling, power, and a 100Mbps full duplex Fast Ethernet feed to our Super Network. We have everything you need to make your Colocation solution just right. Select a la carte from our add-on services that include storage and backup, security, port monitoring, remote hands and feet, and our content delivery network (CDN).
CREATIVE SERVICES dba Rainbow Services This has been a year of patience. All of us in the community have been forced to make choices on how our money is being spent. I have watched my customer base be more selective and trying to get the best product for the dollars spent. It has been my pleasure to continue offering the full range of services that has developed over the years. Customer satisfaction is the main goal. I cannot imagine living anywhere else. The islands have a magical essence that allows us to dream and reach for the stars. Thanks for being a part of my life. #2 Wausau Station Bldg. Suite B. 376-2150
Kathleen Smith-Speed Smith & Speed Mercantile is an alternative general store. Our focus is on hand tools, organic textiles, non-toxic paints, wood finishes and homestead supplies. A lifelong love of good hand tools inspired me and my husband Errol to share our passion with the community. Prior to moving to Orcas, I worked for 15 years in marketing and sales for the organic food industry in the San Francisco Bay Area. After moving to Orcas in 1999, I owned my own marketing company that helped start-up organic companies with business plans and US distribution, which I ran here for five years. My husband and I live off the grid, we use little fossil fuel on our farm, and we do most of our farm tasks by hand or horse. Our store is a representation of how we live our lives on Orcas.
WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2009 • The Islands’ Sounder
The Aurora Co.
Consignment Shop
Barbara Wixom
I have owned The Aurora Company for over 12 years and have enjoyed every moment!
I like to change things around in the shop, expanding or downsizing departments as my customers’ needs change. As a result, The Aurora Company has a busy men’s department with its very own room... “The Cave.” We are also offering more used CDs than ever before; there are currently over 500 in stock. With the season change, we are getting in more cold weather clothing: jackets, sweaters, hats, and lots more to keep you warm! New items arrive every day.
Why shop resale?
You save money... most items are priced at least 60% less than retail. You can find unique things that you just can’t find any other place. Most items are on consignment from Orcas Islanders, so every time you shop, you put a little money back into the local economy, instead of the mainland’s. It’s eco-friendly: The most energy efficient clothing is recycled clothing! I could not have been so successful without my loyal shoppers and wonderful consignors. Thanks to all of you!
North Beach Road, Eastsound • open 11 to 5 Tues - Sat • 376-2249
The Right Place 376-4023
What can you say when someone asks “Tell us about yourself?” Well, Trudy Erwin all I can say is I’m very content. I love working for a goal which the making of pottery sets up for you constantly. Get an idea, work it through the process and, finally, see it come out of the last firing complete. One of my life goals was to live full-time on Orcas Island. That didn’t come about until 1985, when after all those years of pottery making both at OIP and Berkeley, CA (where I lived from ‘65 to ‘85) my second husband, Wally Erwin, and I bought “The Right Place.” Now my happiness is in passing it on, teaching the techniques that help both children and adults get the fun of seeing their ideas completed. There is simply no end to learning the craft.
Rachel Newcombe, L.I.C.S.W
food . wine . spirits Open Daily 4-9 Dinner Service 5-9 Happy Hour Fri-Sat 9-11 Sunday Brunch 10-2 Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis
310 Main Street, 2nd Floor 376-4904 www.christinas.net
374 North Beach Road Eastsound, WA • (360) 376-5883