Women in Business

Wednesday, oct. 24, 2012 • The islands’ sounder

Women in business

Women in Business A special advertising section honoring Orcas Island’s business women and their contributions to the community

Page 11

Page 12

Women in business

Visit www.islandssounder.com for daily news updates

Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012 • The Islands’ Sounder

Keeping it all in the family ‘Too good to be through’ is the motto for this mother-daughter team

by COLLEEN SMITH ARMSTRONG

N

Debra Post and Keri Lago of Cherry T’s children’s consignment shop.

Teri Williams and Sandi Friel

Two Women Meld Talents And Become Good Friends Teri Williams says some of her best friends started out as clients, and Sandi Friel is a perfect example.

In 2003, while working at a local Real Estate office and running Permit Resources at the same time, Teri met Sandi, who was vacationing here from Florida and looking for her dream property. By 2006, when Sandi relocated to Orcas, Teri had opened her own real estate brokerage. Sandi eagerly put together a marketing plan and got her real estate license. Now, nearly six years later, the pair continues to hone their synergistic skills, thrive in a tough economy and look forward to a long and fulfilling future together as business partners and friends.

New owner Sonya Hiltner invites you to check out her reinvigorated space in the Our House Building in Eastsound.

Thank you, Orcas, for your support!

360-376-8374 365 North Beach Road Eastsound

www.twilliamsrealty.com

Enjoy quality consigned clothing at a reasonable price.

Open 11 to 6 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday

contributed photo

Publisher/Editor

ot many people get to work with their best friend every day.

Debra Post and Keri Lago are a mother-daughter duo who own Cherry T’s kids’ consignment store.

The women say they feel lucky to run a business together.

“We pick up where the other one leaves off,” Post said. “We support each other. It works so well.”

Adds Lago: “And we finish each other’s sentences.”

The shop opened in June 2010 in Eastsound. In early 2011, the business moved to the corner spot in Templin’s Center and is now known for its colorful window displays.

“One mom said driving past the windows is like Chuck E. Cheese for her kids,” Lago said.

Prior to opening the shop, Post was a real estate agent with her husband Rusty for 16 years. She was also a bookkeeper and private secretary.

Lago has five children with her husband Ed, who works at OPALCO. The store has gently used clothing,

See CHERRY , Page 14

Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012 • The Islands’ Sounder

Women in business

Total eclipse of the heart

Page 13

Denise Wilk runs a charter business and a gift shop in Eastsound

D

by Cali Bagby Staff reporter

enise Wilk and her husband, known as Captain Dan, have spent a combined 29 years as island residents. This year they celebrate 22 years as operators of Eclipse Charters, their tour and whale-watching business. This year also marks their 22nd wedding anniversary.

And with all those years have come plenty of life lessons.

“We have learned to be successful through commitment, being consistent and hanging in there through thick and thin,” she said.

“We both have skills that complement each other and together we do most of our own work on the boat … We both have learned to give and take what we need from each other.”

Denise has had many accomplishments, such as being named Educator of the Year by the Sustainable San Juans 2010 awards.

The Wilks have also made it to the silver screen. In the 1993 movie “Free Willy II,” Denise and Daniel played the “Coastal Marine Patrol,” captaining their 56-foot Orca Express charter boat.

And with plenty of experience under their belts, the Wilks decided two years ago to open the Eclipse Charters Wildlife Store next door to the Nest and beneath the Windermere headquarters.

“We are able to educate people about the stewardship of whales, wildlife and the nature of the islands,” Denise said. “We have been able to get more people out on the water with the store in Eastsound and our store at the ferry landing.”

Denise has selected a variety of native offerings, including wood carvings, silver jewelry, silk screened art, rain jackets, delicate silk-blend scarves in deep blues, greens and mauves, books on native legends, small decorative magnets and brightly hued post-

See DENISE, Page 14

Denise Wilk with her new sales associate, Dutch, a miniature schnauzer.

Cali Bagby/staff reporter

Page 14

Women in business

DENISE FROM 13

Virginia Erhardt, Ph.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist

I was born in Long Island, N.Y., and after leaving there in 1960, lived in various parts of the country, on both coasts.

In 1977, I moved to the Atlanta area and after living there until 2009, my partner of 33 years and I fulfilled a longterm dream, moving to Orcas, which feels more like “home” than anywhere we’ve ever lived. Three of our grandchildren live not far away, on the mainland, with the oldest in Houston, where his wife is just finishing medical school.

We have taken great delight in engaging in many outdoor activities, often with our dog. We are fortunate to have been so embraced by the Orcas community.

Prior to becoming a psychologist, I raised my children, provided services to returning Vietnam POWs and their families, was Legal Advocate at the Atlanta Council on Battered Women, and was a Welfare and Food Stamps Case Worker for Family and Children Services. My doctorate in Clinical Psychology is from a very humanistic program at Georgia State University. I have provided psychological services at Ridgeview Institute, Emory University Counseling Center, the Atlanta V.A. Medical Center, and Shepherd Spinal Center. In 1992, I opened my private practice in the Atlanta area.

Since moving here, I have enjoyed giving to the community in various ways.I’ve loved reading to children at Salmonberry School and volunteering in various other ways through the Lion’s Club. I have taught a number of classes at the library.

Most concerned self-hypnosis; several focused on helping people, via self-hypnosis, to become slimmer and healthier.

Another class was for people who had recently experienced relationship endings they didn’t choose. It gives me great pleasure and satisfaction to engage with islanders in this manner, donating the proceeds from my classes for the purpose of purchasing additional titles for the library.

I am certified in Clinical Hypnosis by the American Society for Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH), the training and certifying body associated only with licensed medical and psychological professionals. I have extensive training in sex therapy and have presented at many conferences in this country and abroad about topics related to human sexuality and relationships.

I love my work and the private practice I’ve developed in Eastsound, and plan to continue in a comfortable state of semi-retirement for a long time. Much of my work involves hypnosis for weight management, smoking cessation, artistic, academic, and athletic performance enhancement, anxiety reduction, self-esteem issues, and pain management.

I also enjoy working with people to enhance their relationships, dealing with both general issues and sexuality.

I have particular expertise with sexuality and chronic illness, sexuality and disability, and gender variance in adults, adolescents, and children. An interest I have developed in the past five or so years is in Asperger’s Syndrome in adolescents and adults.

For more information, visit my web site at www.

DrVirginiaErhardt.com. If you have suggestions for classes you might like me to teach at the library, or if you would be interested in discussing setting up an appointment, please email me at DrVErhardt@aol.com, or call me at 317.4555.

cards.

The Wilks started collecting art on their first trips to Canada and Alaska. Seeing the old villages and totem poles sparked an interest in indigenous people.

It was important for the Wilks to educate people that Orcas was a summer home to Lummi and Samish tribes and others long before the first Caucasian settlers arrived.

Wednesday, oct. 24, 2012 • The islands’ sounder

“It takes commitment, but we are slowly collecting original works of native and non-indigenous artists instead of copies made overseas,” she said. “We hope to help tell a story about how First Nations people influence the island spirit.”

The store has also given Denise an opportunity to use her business skills. She grew up in Port Townsend, where her family had a store and restaurant in a small marina. It was there that she learned about business

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(360) 298-4558

JILLERY After selling her jewelry at the Farmers’ Market for several seasons, Jill opened “Jillery” on Main Street over four years ago.

What began as a showcase for her jewelry along with the work of local artisans has truly grown.

Now you’ll find a plethora of accessories and gifts… a selection far too wide to describe here.

It’s a “MUST SEE” collection of beautiful, unique and whimsical surprises where you’re sure to find something for everyone at prices that are ALWAYS affordable.

at a young age.

“This was good training for our endeavors here on the island,” she said. “I think the two businesses go hand in hand.”

And she enjoys being her own boss, on and off the water. She mainly works at the shop and on behind the scenes aspects of the boat business, like booking tours.

“Over the years we have worked our way up to our dream boat, the Orcas Express,” Denise said. “We

CHERRY FROM 12 shoes, sports gear and costumes. It also features kidrelated clothing and hair accessories that are made on the island.

More than 350 families consign with Cherry T’s.

The women say because they receive so much inventory, they are very picky about what goes on the floor.

“There are so many treasures – you never know what you will find,” Lago said. “We would love to see more teens come in. We invite them to tell us what they’d like to see.”

Their customers range

Cali Bagby/staff photo

A piece of art from the Eclipse Charters Wildlife Store.

enjoy people and this job gives us the opportunity to be out on the water doing what we enjoy.”

The store is open through the winter on most days from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

You can stop in and browse or visit with Denise’s newest sales associate – a miniature schnauzer named Dutch.

from young families to grandparents to tourists who forgot that all-important swim suit. Orcas Family Connections, Camp Orkila and Readiness to Learn at Orcas Elementary also has an account with Cherry T’s to purchase clothing for those in need.

In addition, some kids have their own accounts to buy clothes, which Post says helps teach them an important life skill of shopping on a budget.

“There isn’t a day that goes by where someone doesn’t say ‘I am so glad you’re here,’” Post said.

“And the community benefits from having a vibrant store on the corner.”

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

Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012 • The Islands’ Sounder

Women in business

Page 15

Visit www.islandssounder.com for daily news updates

L

iving on Orcas Island keeps me busy, engaged and during this past year has allowed me to pass along the support and love I have received over the past 14 years since I moved here. The milestones reached this year have been well worth the challenges of operating both a nonprofit and a corporation on small islands.

To me personally, the most rewarding endeavor that has made a positive impact on Jill Blankenship our community has been the continued growth and expansion of Orcas Angels. As one of the original founders, it has been so rewarding to see this vision come to fruition and to know our programs are helping in so many different ways. I invite you to get involved in the community and to visit out our website to learn more about what we do: www.orcasangels.org I’d like to share some of the highlights that have meant so much to me this year from the Frontline Call Center business side.

• Frontline Call Center competed at the Mud Run 2012 in Carnation, WA for an amazing team building experience.

• Frontline Call Center has taken to date – 3,902,381 calls!

• In March of 2012 we opened another office in Friday Harbor and are proud to be able to provide quality jobs for our neighboring islanders.

• Frontline Call Center won “Global Customer Advocate” at the in Contact User Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah this month where I was a presenter.

In addition to all the wonderful things that have happened this year I want to thank the following Orcas Island women who have supported the businesses and worked alongside me: Tracy Leahy, April Nance, Sarah Wesen, Chelsea Marks, Chanda McKeaver, Bridget Wright, Sarah Coffelt, Liz Longworth, Lori Gates and Dyan Holmes.

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Women in business

Wednesday, oct. 24, 2012 • The islands’ sounder

1908

1918

A group of women storm the British Parliament demanding suffrage.

Twenty-four of them are arrested.

Canadian and British women are granted the right to vote, although in Great Britain a woman must be over age 30.

The U.S. government reports that 1.4 million women work in war industries. After World War I these women are forced out of industrial work.

1909 In New York, shirtwaist factory workers go on strike. The International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union and the Women’s Trade Union League work together in support of the strike.

1911 Marie Curie is awarded the Nobel Prize for chemistry for the isolation of pure radium.

by COLLEEN S. ARMSTRONG

T

Editor/Publisher

heir footsteps echo in the corridors of history, but we rarely hear them. As a young woman living in the 21st century, I don’t often think about the sacrifices of those who came before me.

I take it for granted that I can vote, achieve my goals, survive on my own income, choose whether or not to start a family. I can dress how I please, I can voice my opinion, I can file for

divorce. And on the isolated occasion that I do feel discriminated against because of my gender, I brush it off because it has no relevance.

There will always be ignorant people in this world. It is my choice to internalize it or move on to something else.

But when I pause to really consider history, I feel an earnest and intense kinship with the women who pioneered my rights decades ago. They took the real risks. They were strong in the face of challenging deep

~ SUZI ZOBRIST ~

Transformational Yoga & Bodywork

social traditions. And the shocking part – and this is true for Civil Rights as well – is that it wasn’t very long ago that our cultural fabric was based on severe restrictions to human rights.

As we salute our modern business women in this special section, we also pay tribute to those who laid the way for our success.

What follows is a timeline of notable events in the history of women, courtesy of Encyclopedia Brittanica.

1800 The U.S. logs the highest birth rate worldwide, 7.04 children per woman.

1833 Oberlin

Collegiate

Institute (later Oberlin College) is founded in Ohio as the first American college to admit men and women on an equal basis.

1893

1912 Juliette Gordon Low founds the Girl Guides (later Girl Scouts) in the United States. By 1927 there will be a troop in every state.

1920 The Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is signed into law, giving women the right to vote.

Despite death threats from the Ku Klux Klan, Mary McLeod Bethune begins a voter registration drive for African American women.

The University of Oxford admits its first full-degree female students.

1945

Largely through the efforts of suffragist Kate Sheppard, New Zealand becomes the first country to grant women the right to vote.

1913 Norwegian women win the right to vote. In 1915, Danish women win the right to vote.

More than six million American women who entered the workforce during World War II are pushed out of their traditionally male jobs at the war’s end.

1900

1914

1975

British tennis player Charlotte Cooper wins the first women’s gold medal at the Olympics.

In Russia, Princess Eugenie Shakhovskaya is the first female military pilot. She flies reconnaissance missions.

1904 In French law, women are no longer permanent minors.

Owner

1917 The United States Navy hires 12,000 women as clerks in the same job classifications and for the same pay as men.

This is so that it can send men overseas.

The U.S. Supreme Court rules that women cannot be excluded from juries because of their sex.

1986 The U.S. Supreme Court upholds affirmative action on the basis of race or gender.

2002 Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years on the throne.

Morgan L. Meadows, NLP

360.298.0218

Founder www.orcasmandala.com

Life Coach, Consultant

360.298.0218

www.orcasmandala.com

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Vision Accomplished Services, LLC IsleShare.org Time Bank (Coordinator)

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y passion is to turn your dreams into the real thing! My pleasure is to assist you in theseareas: parenting, home education, family communications (including preliminary parenting plans), and personal assistance. From the perspective of a mature mother, artist, and lifelong entrepreneur, let’s work together to support your vision of success. My resume is on my website.

Workshops and programs are posted as they develop.

144 Rosehip Road, Eastsound 98245 Ph: 360-376-9213 | Cell: 360-298-2128

Call 376-4500 to book today!

www.VisionOnOrcas.com | www.IsleShare.org morgan@VisionOnOrcas.com

Wednesday, oct. 24, 2012 • The islands’ sounder

Women in business

Islands’ Sounder women

Page 17

Thank you to our women in business for making Orcas Island such a special place! Your contributions to the community are incredible.

– The Islands’ Sounder

Jean Bried, PA-C: “My craft is promoting sound lifestyle goals.”

Chris Gill/WestBoundary photography

Clockwise from front: Colleen Smith Armstrong, Gail Anderson-Toombs and Cali Bagby.

The women of the Islands’ Sounder newspaper are a close-knit group. They truly love what they do. Circulation manager Gail Anderson-Toombs lives aboard a trawler with her husband Bob and two cats named Sammy and Sophie. Staff reporter Cali Bagby enjoys rock climbing, bike riding, backpacking and singing. Publisher and editor Colleen Smith Armstrong is an avid reader, has three dogs and participates in Orcas Crossfit.

Jean Bried, PA-C, is a Physician Assistant at Orcas Medical Center. She trained and worked in primary care, adult medicine and surgery at Emory University in Atlanta, before moving to Orcas Island with her husband, Michael.

Jean welcomes female and male patients of all ages, from pre-teens to seniors, and believes in helping patients take good care of themselves.

“Maintaining our general health and participating in preventive measures is valuable for both men and women throughout our lives,” she said.

“Whether this involves making a small but tough change or continuing a healthy lifestyle, we recognize and own that moment.”

“You are the captain of your own ship.”

“Each of us has an opportunity every day to do something beneficial for our health,” said Jean. “You are the captain of your own ship; my main job is helping you navigate.”

Jean has extensive experience in family medicine, women’s healthcare, family planning and pregnancy counseling. At Emory, she also studied chronic disease epidemiology and preventive medicine and has a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree.

Orcas Medical Center is at 7 Deye Lane, next door to Orcas Center.

Call 376-2561 for appointments.

Now affiliated with

orcasmedicalcenter.com

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Women in business

Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012 • The Islands’ Sounder

EDC workshop on financing

The San Juan County Economic Development Council will present a free half-day workshop for small businesses and entrepreneurs on San Juan Island on Monday, Oct. 29, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the community room of the San Juan Island Library in Friday Harbor. The course material will be presented by James McCafferty, of the Economic Development Association of Skagit County. Advance registration required. Call 378-2906 to reserve your space, or email info@sanjuansedc.org.

Clarity Connection, LLC Therapy and Coaching

Denise Wolf MA, LMHCA (360)375-7103 denise@clarityconnectionllc.com

The women of…

orcas island physical therapy

I’m delighted to have been a part of this community full time for almost five years… although it’s had my heart for about twenty.

I find great joy serving the islands through my mental health practice. My primary focus is helping people make the internal and external shifts through transitions…. you know, all of those events that life throws our way as we travel our path.

In addition to psychotherapy I offer biofeedback techniques that help you gain heart and mind coherence. Both of these approaches can provide healing and used together gives us the opportunity to maximize our work together.

I offer reduced rates for the uninsured and the financially challenged. Feel free to call or email me to set up a free 30-minute consultation.

A Touch of Rejuvenation Massage by the Sea presents a unique healing environment embracing holistic mind and body treatments All therapists within our seaside oasis are experienced in Spa and Medical Massage. Having given thousands of treatments we look forward to facilitating and sharing an eclectic array of therapies Couple’s Massage, Hot Stones, Reflexology, Injury treatments, Far Infrared and Harmonic Sound Therapies, Balinese Foot Bath Accepting PIP, L&I, Insurance, Walk-Ins, Sliding Scale and Senior Discounts Roxanne Robertson, Owner • 376-8006 • facebookmassagebytheseaspa located in building between Nest and Madrona Bar & Grill

Mandy Nigretto Thank you to all of my customers who have made my business such a success!

Left to right: Please Join us for our PTA Karey Keel-Stidham, Sixth Annual Patient Coordinator Anne Pekuri Cider Press PartyMSPT PT Alyson Stephens, 49 Deye Lane PT Tech Jeni Sanders Friday, Oct. 19 • 3-5:30 pm PTA Nancy Frey 376-6604

mon-fri 8-4, by appointment • 376-6604 www.orcasislandpt.com

I love my work and look forward to giving you a great salon experience.

Please contact me at Mandy’s Hair Haven, Eastsound, 376-7376, Monday through Friday, by appointment, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., evenings available.

360 376-6566 18 Haven Road, Suite 120

Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012 • The Islands’ Sounder

Women in business

Page 19

The women of Orcas Fire and Rescue

Cali Bagby/ Staff photo

Pictured above are the women firefighters and EMTs of Orcas Island Fire and Rescue. From left to right: Division Chief Val Harris with EMTs Dove Dingman, Jaylin Peacock, Jenole Peacock, and Kari Schuh. Not pictured: Patricia Ayers, Hilary Canty, Jennifer Corbin, Robin Dyer, Rachel Harvey, Rita Harvey, Jessica Haug, Maria Nutt, Lindsay Schirmer, Jill Sherman, Heather Thomas and Beth Wangen. Orcas Fire is currently seeking volunteer firefighters to serve the community. Application packets are available online at www.orcasfire.org or at the Eastsound Fire Hall and should be turned in by Nov. 7 to be eligible for the upcoming winter academy. All are invited to an open house on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 10 a.m. to noon at the fire hall.

The Women of Dr. Bailey's Dental Office Back row: Becky Vinson, Megan Surbaugh, RDH Adrienne Vierthaler, RDH and Rita Bailey Front row: Janna Carter, Michelle Wohlford, RDH Debbie Shaw and Luann Pamatian

Monday-Friday 8 to 5 p.m.

376-2656 83 Mt. Baker Road

www.orcasdentist.com cavityslayer@gmail.com

Page 20

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012 • The Islands’ Sounder

For the love of style

New owner of Aurora’s consignment store is looking ahead to a future of helping people find their fashion

by COLLEEN S, ARMSTRONG

S

Colleen Smith Armstrong/staff photo

Sonya Hiltner is the owner of Fashion Fairy, previously known as Aurora Company.

Publisher/Editor

he’s a Southern gal with a flair for fashion.

As a lifelong consignment shopper, Sonya Hiltner says purchasing the Aurora Company was a dream come true.

“Having the store is like getting to play dress up with your girlfriends all day,” said Hiltner, who purchased the shop from Barbara Wixom in late August.

Now called Fashion Fairy Consignment, the space in the Our House Building received a facelift.

It now has three dressing rooms, fresh turquoise paint and more floor space.

Hitlner has also decorated the interior with fairy treasures and revitalized the clothing displays, allowing customers to browse more easily.

Hiltner says the shop carries everything from little black dresses to Carhatt pants – plus plenty of costumes for Halloween.

“I am trying to arrange it where it has a more flowing atmosphere and is filled with quality clothing, accessories and jewelry,” she said.

And the “Man Cave” across the hall has more of a selection as well as new socks and underwear.

For 30 years, Hiltner was in corporate business management in Alabama. She was also a single mom with three children and shopped at consignment stores.

“It’s the only way I could afford to dress in my nice suits and heels for work,” she said.

Hiltner moved to Orcas seven years ago because of a long-distance relationship with Thomas Hiltner.

“I fell in love with Orcas before I even landed,” she

said. “I knew this was home whether Thomas was or not – luckily he was.”

The two married later that year and Sonya started a property care and cleaning business.

But Aurora’s always called to her. It was the first store she ever set foot in on Orcas, and Wixom had Hiltner in mind when she decided to sell the business after 15 years.

“Many people have asked me for fashion help even before the store,” Hiltner said.

This winter, she plans to hold “makeover” evenings twice a month. You can enter your name in a drawing and receive a hair and make-up session, an outfit and a photo shoot, courtesy of Fashion Fairy.

A little fashion history 1900-1920: Skirts were long and full, with a small train like today’s wedding gowns. When the war began in 1914, attention and materials were drawn away from design, and significant fashion developments stopped.

1920-1940: For the first time, women wear pants and short skirts. By the early 1930s, the hardships of the Great Depression create more conservative trends.

1940 – 1960: Due to World War II, drabness and uniformity in clothing became popular. Buttons for any apparel were limited to three per clothing item.

1960 – 1980: Bell bottoms, increasingly short miniskirts and hot pants, and blue jeans are all the rage. This is a time of diverse fashion.

1980 – present: Welcome to the world of expensive designer clothing and women embrace casual, comfortable clothing styles.

The women of Enzo's Caffe M O NM K E Y P P U Z Z L E ONKEY

UZZLE

IS BACK IN A DIFFERENT FORM!

C

From left to right: Claire, Nadia, Margaret and Jenifer

Coffee, baked goods, pizza, sandwiches and more

U

RS A LIL I E OB E LSL I IS B T I ACK IN EASTSOUND WITH A UNIQUE BEAD STORE, OFFERING BEADS, J E W E L R Y, C L O T H I N G , ASIAN ARTIFACTS, CONSULTATIONS AND WORKSHOPS.

LOCATED

EASTSOUND SQUARE MIA'S. O P E N D A I L Y, 1 1 T O 4 P . M .

W W W. M O N K E Y P U Z Z L E . C O M IN

ACROSS FROM

E

S

Adapted from www.randomhistory.com.

Morgan L. Meadows, NLP Life Coach, Consultant

Vision Accomplished Services, LLC IsleShare.org Time Bank (Coordinator)

M

y passion is to turn your dreams into the real thing! My pleasure is to assist you in theseareas: parenting, home education, family communications (including preliminary parenting plans), and personal assistance. From the perspective of a mature mother, artist, and lifelong entrepreneur, let’s work together to support your vision of success. My resume is on my website.

Workshops and programs are posted as they develop.

144 Rosehip Road, Eastsound 98245 Ph: 360-376-9213 | Cell: 360-298-2128 www.VisionOnOrcas.com | www.IsleShare.org morgan@VisionOnOrcas.com

Wednesday, oct. 24, 2012 • The islands’ sounder

Women in business

Page 21

Dr. Claudia Kawas to speak Rock climbing and war

by CALI BAGBy Staff reporter

Dr. Claudia Kawas, pictured above, has been working in the field of aging and dementia for almost 30 years.

“It’s an oxymoron to say that the older I get, the more interested I am in aging,” she said.

About a decade ago, Kawas found data that showed people over 90 were the fastest growing segment of population in most of the world. She said this remarkable demographic is the result of extending life expectancy by 27 years over the past century.

“But little is known about people who live this long,” she said. “In addition, most of us feel that living long isn’t the only important thing, we also want to live well. So I have been trying to learn from our oldest old citizens what we can do to increase our chances of doing both.”

Kawas now oversees “The 90-plus Study,” initiated in 2003 at the University of California, Irvine, to study the oldest-old, the fastest growing age group in the United States. She will share major findings of the ongoing study at the Orcas Center, Sunday Nov. 4, 2 p.m. Her talk will discuss factors associated with longevity and delves into questions like what makes people live to age 90 and beyond, what types of food, activities or lifestyles are associated with living longer and what are ways to remain dementia-free in your 90’s?

The 90-plus Study primarily investigates certain

lifestyle and dietary factors, and some cardiovascular factors such as hypertension.

“We have some surprising results that I will share,” said Kawas. “We also are studying the brain tissues of these people, which has taught us a lot about thinking as we age, and are beginning to do genetic studies.”

The lecture is part of the Crossroads Lecture Series, which brings speakers to Orcas Island to share their expertise.

The study has encompassed more than 1,600 people, some in terrific shape, others not.

“Definitely, contact with so many 90-plus and 100-plus-year-olds has affected me deeply, although the ways are hard to summarize in a few words,” she said. “Suffice it to say they continue to teach me a lot.”

Tickets are $10 at Darvill’s Bookstore or at the door.

Visit www.orcascrossroads. org for more information.

get pre-production rolling.

Go to www.kickstarter.com and search “Samara Shaw” for more information.

Supporters receive rewards, including downloads and or/CDs from Orcas musicians. A large group of islanders are involved in the project, including Dustin Fox, Sharon Abreu, Ben Sheppard, Davis Limbach, Freddy Hinckle,

Mariah Dimich, Katie Grey, Prabhupad, and Ione Angeles.

Local woman to develop new musical for Orcas Island Orcas resident Samara Shaw, pictured at right, has launched a campaign to develop a full length musical she has written for the stage titled “The Shift.” It is a modern day story about “our collective transformational process,” and is almost ready for production. Shaw is raising capital for rewrites, workshopping, to set up a website, and to

Persian Rugs Accent Accessories, Antiques, Gifts, Jewelry, Orientalia, Furniture 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 it the oldest business on the island.

by CALI BAGBy Staff reporter

(Editor’s note: Before working as a reporter for the Sounder and editor of the Islands’ Weekly on Lopez, Bagby was an embedded journalist with the Army and Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan.)

We all break into laughter as the driver swears his undying love for Lady Gaga.

Then something explodes beneath us. The vehicle swerves to the right. The truck commander radios to the rest of the convoy that we’ve got a flat tire. Suddenly other armored vehicles encircle us and the tire is changed instantly, as if we were at a NASCAR race. But the mechanics wear armor. Their large black M4 carbines are strapped over their sweaty backs. They work rapidly because no one knows what dangers lurk in the desert – snipers and IEDs are contestant companions of war.

But I find the situation hilarious. I am a journalist and the only female for miles in the middle of the desert and the biggest news I’ve had in weeks is a flat tire.

Sometimes things are too bizarre to be scary. As we pull away from the side of the road and onto the endless stretch ahead of us, I wonder if I should feel something else.

I spent 11 months in Iraq. My mind labored there in the isolation of concrete and barbwire. I returned home to organized four-way stops, manicured lawns and children riding bikes under leafy trees.

I felt the phantom limb that was Iraq. I did not miss the disturbingly hungry looks of male soldiers, the groping hands in dark helicopters or the sneers of “Why is she here?” when I wanted an interview. I had three strikes against me: I was female, a civilian and a journalist.

Despite everything, I did miss the possibility of something happening. So in my depression, I turn to rock climbing to cheer myself up. I’m no hardcore free solo climber. All it takes is 70 feet and some slab to freak me out. But I love it. So when a climbing trip presents itself, I say yes.

We start the climbing trip driving in the darkness. My friend Darrell’s headlights reveal the Joshua trees standing still like monsters with hairy arms. Three of us, freshly returned from a year in Iraq, are

Bossy’s Feltworks

boring Garrett, a recent biology graduate from Montana, about our war stories.

Natalie, a MEDEVAC Blackhawk pilot, Darrell, a MEDEVAC Blackhawk crew chief and I have a whole list of gripes. We rant about soggy vegetables in the chow hall, temper tantrums and all the constant grumblings. We haven’t seen much blood and gore, but we’ve been isolated – cut off from our familiar worlds.

My year as an embedded journalist with a MEDEVAC unit and an infantry unit came with its empty thrills of running to the concrete bunker when mortars were coming in, even if they were 25 miles away.

Most of the time was spent wondering how to fill the day. The horrors of our deployment were subtle, full of walls, not just the concrete barricades or the thin tin of the trailers we called home, but also the walls we built to keep others out.

Everything in Joshua Tree National Park, Calif., is alive. Lumps of green and reddish shrubbery fill up the wide spaces.

Monuments of rock jut out in all sorts of directions as if some great giant boy placed them like building blocks. My return to rock is not exactly graceful. A year away from granite and basalt makes me clumsy and unsure of my steps. My legs shake as I ascend the first climb.

Over the next few days we travel to Red Rocks, Nev., where the red rock walls nestle between the desert floors and the brown hills are dusted with snow. Natalie and I break away from the guys and call our climbing adventure the “Estrogen Hour.”

Up I go, leg shaking, breath cramped inside my ribcage and my heart thumping.

Four days later I finally feel comfortable again on rock. Yet on the last climb of the day, a gust of wind knocks a contact lens out of my right eye. Without depth perception I have to feel the rock below with my fingers before stepping up. An hour later, back in the warmth of the van, I continue describing my terror on the rock. By now all discussions of Iraq have dissolved for more entertaining topics.

Several days later I am home. I feel a nagging sense of depression. I start to look for my next job. My first location choice: Afghanistan.

RIVER MALCOLM WILL RETIRE

Kari Van Gelder, Mandy Troxel & Amy Lum

Here Now by Judy Malcolm

River will close her practice as a Marriage & Family Therapist on Feb. 14 (Valentine’s Day) 2013.

www.BossysFeltworks.com

376-4548, river@orcasonline.com

Page 22

Women in business

Women in history These Orcas Island women were important figures in the develop of the community

by TOM WELCH

Orcas Island Historical Museum

Sarah Jane Fry Tolerance and welcoming acceptance are natural traits of pioneer women, and in the early days of white settlement on Orcas Island in no one was this more true than in the person of Sarah Jane Fry. Born in New York in 1837, Sarah first came to the island in 1870 when she and her husband, John N. Fry, built a log cabin and settled on a homestead in Eastsound.

One of the first white women on Orcas Island, Sarah became well known for her hospitality, her willingness to help others, her invaluable service as a midwife, and her dedication to temperance.

In those days there was

no dock or other landing site at Eastsound, so all new arrivals had to disembark at the Langdon lime kiln dock some four miles from the head of the bay.

Orcas Island was virtually roadless at that time, so the newcomers had to lug their belongings over a rough trail to Eastsound and find a place to stay.

Fortunately for them, there was always a warm welcome awaiting them at the Fry homestead, which Sarah ran somewhat along the lines of a boarding house.

John and Sarah Fry had seven children: two sons and five daughters. One daughter married E.V. Von Gohren, who was later the central figure in the development of the hugely successful orchard business on Orcas Island.

John Fry became Justice

Rachel Newcombe, L.I.C.S.W

Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis 374 North Beach Road Eastsound, WA • (360) 376-5883

of the Peace at Eastsound, which position no doubt proved helpful some years later when Sarah joined forces with “Reverend” Sydney R.S. Grey to convince a man busily engaged in building what was to become the first saloon in Eastsound that such an enterprise was not welcome on Orcas Island.

It is a testament to her strong belief in temperance that the saloon-builder soon decamped for other shores.

Sarah Jane Fry passed away on May 24, 1900, at her home in Eastsound, and is interred at Mt. Baker Cemetery.

Sarah Jane Fry passed away on May 24, 1900, at her home in Eastsound, and is interred at Mt. Baker cemetery. We cannot know the intensely personal details of a person’s life in those

Wednesday, oct. 24, 2012 • The islands’ sounder

photo courtesy of the Orcas Island Historical Museum

The women of the Fry family, who homesteaded on Orcas in the late 1800s. early settlement days and can only make imperfect judgments from the testimony of others, but it is perhaps very telling that Sarah Fry’s obituary noted that “... she was beloved by all for her motherly kindness and unbroken patience through many trials and tribulations which few could have borne as long as she did.”

We can only imagine.

Jane Willis Barfoot-Hodde Jane Willis BarfootHodde turned 97 years old on Dec. 8, 2010.

A longtime benefactor and volunteer at The Orcas Island Historical Society and Museum, Jane also donated the funds that paid for the new Entrance Gallery at the museum.

Orcas Island canvas and saIls Tara ownTaraHubbard, Hubbardthe , the er of Orcas Island Canvas owner of Orcas Island and Sails, has been an Canvas and Sails, has been avid sailor and boater for an avid sailor and boater for nearly entire nearly herher entire life.life.

After After working in aloft sailinloft working in a sail Seattle for 8 years, Tara in Seattle forOrcas 8 years, TaraCanvas established her own established Island in 2008.

Orcas Island based canvas company, Specializing marine canvas sail respecializing ininmarine canvas and and sail repairs. pair, Tara has designed, created and repaired Tara has designed, created and repaired customized canvas for boats, awnings and customized canvas for boats, awnings, outdoor outdoor furniture. loves to design conbathtubs, outdoorShe furniture, and evenand a saw struct typical as well as unusual projects, and mill! She loves to design and construct typical welcomes even the most andeven creative and unusual projects, and unique welcomes the opportunities. most unique and creative opportunities.

Tara offers up and delivery service.

Tara offers pickpick up and delivery service.

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When the museum decided to honor those special people who have made significant contributions to Orcas Island history, Jane was unanimously chosen to be the first recipient of the Historian of the Year Award.

Jane Willis was born on Dec. 8, 1913, at the Willis family homestead near Obstruction Pass on Orcas Island. The Willis family farm was founded in 1868, and is one of the few family farms in Washington State that has been in continuous operation for more than 100 years.

They have also been honored and recognized by the National Weather Service for their longstanding operation of an official Weather Station at their farm.

The youngest child in her family, Jane received her elementary education

at the Olga schoolhouse.

Education has always been an important part of the Willis family tradition – Jane’s mother taught at the Newhall school in the days before Rosario was established at Cascade Bay. Jane worked for many years at the school in Eastsound, and later operated a very popular Secondhand Store at Barfoot’s Blockhouse in Olga. Jane also enjoys a very prominent reputation at the Washington State Grange, where she has been a member for the past 75 years.

The Orcas Island community has benefited greatly by her contributions to our island society, her love for our history, and her exemplary service as a role model for each of us.

Floral & Gift Boutique An opportunity to work at a resort on Orcas Island for the summer brought me here 30 years ago. Nest was created 7 years ago after having spent a LOT of time working in Restaurants, Hotels, B&B's and making pottery. Nest provides flowers for all occasions - Birthdays, Prom, Anniversaries and of course Weddings. Orcas themed gift baskets, unique gifts , houseplants and delivery is offered as well.

In addition to the ongoing loyalty of my local customers I also have my partner Dave Page to thank for my success.