Holiday Guide - Whidbey Welcomes the Holidays 2012

WELCOMES

THE

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2012 Published as a supplement to The Whidbey News-Times, South Whidbey Record and Whidbey Examiner

Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

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WELCOMES

THE

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COOK ON CLAY: Whidbey potters create art that is both cookware and table decor.

18

TRADITIONS: Cut a Christmas tree and create a memory to last.

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CALENDAR: Events for a season of cheer!

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ANNUAL HOLIDAY HOME TOUR: Soroptimists International of Oak Harbor showcases 5 homes.

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quaint and festive shopping on Oak harbor’s pioneer way

GALLERY: 8 GIFT Local artist’s talent provides unique gifts.

Publisher Kasia Pierzga Editors Megan Hansen & Jessie Stensland Production Manager/Layout Michelle Wolfensparger Copy & Photos Justin Burnett, Rebecca Olson, Elizabeth Murray, Kathy Reed, Jessie Stensland, Ben Watanabe & Nathan Whalen Advertising Manager Lee Ann Mozes Marketing Sales Gail Rognan, Kimberlly Winjum & Angela Wood Advertising Design Rebecca Collins & Leslie Vance

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make holiday shopping a journey in langley

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don’t think used, think vintage: Secondhand treasures support island programs.

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Goosefoot tree keeps on giving

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A LAVENDER TOUCH FOR RED TICKET EVENT: Coupeville’s Historic downtown is ready for holiday shoppers.

Additional copies of this publication, subscriptions and advertising information can be obtained by contacting: WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES 360-675-6611 | SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD 877-316-7276 | WHIDBEY EXAMINER 360-678-8060

PO Box 1200, 107 S. Main Street, Ste. E101, Coupeville, WA 98239

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Make Your Holiday Shopping Fun! Let us fight traffic & drop you off at the stores front doors!

Every Saturday from 7 to 9pm join us for a glass of your favorite wine, paired with LIVE MUSIC, cheese pairing plates, savory nuts, or chocolate treats in the classic French Cabaret atmosphere of OM’s Winery Tasting Room. Classy and Romantic.

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Come experience our hot cider and let the Magic begin for you!

Antique Dolls, Antique Collectables Byers Choice Carolers • Madame Alexander Dolls • Kathe Kruse Dolls Wee Forest Folk Mice, Corolle Dolls Bearington Bears • Mark Roberts Fairies and Elves • Kringlekin Elves House on the Hill cookie molds Aspen Mulling Co. Mixes...

and many Stocking Stuffer items for that special person.

221-1167 • Open Mon - Sat 11 to 5 • next to Anchor Books in Clinton

Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

Cook on Clay

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Whidbey potters create art for the table

By Rebecca Olson | WHIDBEy news times

Artistic food deserves to be artistically prepared. Using flameware designed by Robbie Lobell and Maryon Attwood of Cook on Clay, any meal can evolve into an experience blending the nature and art of Whidbey Island.

Cook on Clay is located at 640 Patmore Road in Coupeville. Among the evergreens are a soda kiln, studio and showroom alive with Lobell’s and Attwood’s art.

“The cook in your family will definitely love one of these,” Lobell said, pointing out nesting square bakers measuring 8, 10 and 12 inches, as well as round pots, casserole dishes, baking sheets and platters and more.

“We have a pot for any cooking method,” Lobell said. A complete list and photos are available at cookonclay.com.

Flameware is a high-quality ceramic cookware made with a flame-proof clay body. Flameware is special because it can pass from oven or stovetop to the table and then into the refrigerator.

“We think of ourselves as the pots

Rebecca Olson/Whidbey News-Times

At right, the crew at Cook on Clay stands in front of their kiln and includes, from left: Jordan Jones, apprentice/studio assistant; Maryon Attwood, co-owner; Robbie Lobell, co-owner; and Clovy Tsuchiya, apprentice/studio assistant.

Below, Maryon Attwood, co-owner of Cook on Clay, stirs sauce in a flameware pot.

chefs use after hours,” Attwood said.

A number of well-known local chefs use the flameware in their homes and keep coming back for more, Lobell added.

Cook on Clay used to only sell flameware in galleries, but now they sell it as quality cookware that’s also art.

“It is art for food, but it’s high-end cookware,” Lobell said.

“There’s very few locations where

they can buy this,” Attwood said. More than 60 percent of their customers are return customers.

The customers are often the ones with the great ideas, Lobell said. When they ask her for a certain type of pot or to modify one of their existing designs, Lobell takes notes.

See Clay, Page 4

Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

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CLAY

community sharing food.

Cook on Clay is a community in itself with a studio open weekly to

CONTINUED FROM 3

Rebecca Olson/Whidbey News-Times

Above, nesting pots and baking sheets of many styles and sizes are available at Cook on Clay in Coupeville. Order pieces by calling 360-678-1414 or visit cookonclay.com.

At right, Robbie Lobell lets the fire lick out of Cook on Clay’s kiln. They did a Halloween firing this year.

“I’ve actually gotten a lot of my ideas from how my customers cook and I enjoy that challenge,” Lobell said. To see more forms than are pictured on cookonclay.com, visit the showroom at Cook on Clay, which is always open.

Cook on Clay uses a glaze that’s high in iron, allowing the food to release easily and making the flameware easy to clean. The pieces are dishwasher-safe.

“We think food tastes better when it’s cooked on clay,” Attwood added.

Humans have been cooking on clay from the beginning, and since then, science has proven clay to be a great choice for cooking. The molecular structure of clay causes heat to pass evenly throughout it, Attwood said.

“It won’t get the hot spots. The food just cooks so evenly, whether it’s brownies or macaroni and cheese,” Attwood said.

When designing the flameware forms, Lobell thinks about local food: the farms that grow food on Whidbey, the unique island earth that nourishes it and the pleasure of a

See Clay, Page 14

Rebecca Olson/Whidbey News-Times

Maryon Attwood creates spirit houses, unique garden art perfect for gracing herb or vegetable patches that grow produce to be cooked in Cook on Clay flameware.

Anchor Books & Coffee

Clinton’s Holiday Headquarters!

Rebecca Olson/Whidbey News-Times

Stop in for a Pumpkin Spice or Egg Nog Latte Freshly Baked Whidbey Pies & Our own Treats Anchor Books and Coffee Gift Cards Available

Not Just Books…

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

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To enter, bring your receipts to the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce.

You will be given your tickets for your chance to win! *Limit 10 tickets per receipt. Receipts must be collected from any member of the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce and dated between Nov. 23 and Dec. 31, 2012. Drawing will take place on January 17, 2013. Need not be present to win. Does not include purchases from the Navy Exchange or the 98278 zip code. Receipts can be combined to equal $50.

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The Whidbey Coffee Girls, Caffeinated Carolers

«5

6»

Calendar 2012 through Christmas “Deck the Doors”

Visit Langley stores and check out the artistic door decorations. Vote for winner online at www. southwhidbeyrecord.com or at the store.

Nov. 23-25

Country Christmas at the Fair

A craft show full of holiday items at the Coffman Building on the Fairgrounds in Langley from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. Call 360-221-4677 for info. Visit the Fair website at www. whidbeyislandfair.com.

Nov. 24

Lighting of Langley

Come see the Lighting of “The Village by the Sea” at 4 p.m. beginning with caroling downtown at Langley Park.

Nov. 24 Green Ticket Event Begins

Kickoff of Historic Downtown Green Ticket Cash Giveaway in Oak Harbor. For every $20 spent you receive a green ticket and are entered into a drawing for $500 cash.

Drawing held on Dec. 15 at 4 p.m.

Nov. 23-25 Historic Downtown Holiday Market

in Oak Harbor, Pioneer Way, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily.

Nov. 30

Concerts on the Cove presents Magical Strings Celtic Yuletide Festival 7:30 p.m., Camp Casey Auditorium A. Tickets at www.brownpapertickets. com.

Nov 30

through Dec. 15 “Scrooge, The Musical”

Theatre Series at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley. Visit www.

WICAonline.com.

Nov. 30

through Dec. 22 “FRUITCAKES”

Whidbey Playhouse, Oak Harbor. whidbeyplayhouse. com.

Nov. 30

Festival of Trees Gala Benefits Big Brothers/ Big Sisters, formal dinner, 5 p.m., Elks Lodge, Oak Harbor, 360-279-0644. www.bbbislandcounty.org.

Dec. 1

Langley Holiday Parade

11 a.m. along First Street.

Dec. 1

Langley Artwalk

Langley galleries, 5-7 p.m.

Greening of Coupeville Celebration Holiday parade, boat parade and festive tree lighting from 4–6:30 p.m.

Dec. 1

Jingle Trail Run and Walk

5k run and 1 mile walk through beautiful Camp Casey. Entry forms available from the Central Whidbey Chamber of Commerce.

Dec. 1

Festival of Trees Teddy Bear Breakfast

With community tree viewing, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., Elk’s Lodge Oak Harbor. Purchase tickets at www.bbbislandcounty.org.

Dec. 1

Holiday Magic on Pioneer Way in Oak Harbor from 6-8:30 p.m.

Caroling contest.

Dec. 1

House Concerts at the Bay House, 4-8 p.m., Cornet Bay.

Dec. 1-2

Historic Downtown Holiday Market Oak Harbor 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily.

Dec. 1-2

Country Christmas at the Fair 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Coffman Building at the County Fairgrounds in Langley.

Dec. 2

Winter Festival

Dec. 1

Historic Downtown Oak Harbor Tree Lighting

Festive fun and welcoming of Santa, Pioneer Way, 6-8:30 p.m.

South Whidbey Community Park.

Festive afternoon of music, fire engine rides, refreshments and more.

Pictures with Santa. Elf Chase 5K fundraiser for the Langley Middle School PTSA; 10:30 a.m.12:45 p.m. at The Crow’s Nest at South Whidbey Community Park.

Dec. 7 -16

“The Nutcracker” Presented by Whidbey Island Dance Theater, in its 20th season. www. widtonline.org.

Dec. 7 – 22 “Willy Wonka”

Whidbey Island Children’s Theater, Langley.

Dec. 8

Christmas Home Tour 2012 4-8 p.m., Oak Harbor, Soroptimists International of Oak Harbor, www. sioakharbor.org.

Dec. 8

12 Months of Christmas Tournament 9 a.m., Gallery Golf Course, Oak Harbor. http://www.navylifepnw. com/Portals/_Rainbow/ images/WI/Gallery_Xmas_ Tourney_12.pdf.

Dec. 8-9

Historic Downtown Holiday Market Oak Harbor 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily.

CONTINUED ON Page 9

Beautiful Scarves Hats & Gloves!

Perfect Gifts & Wonderful Prices!

We have been listed in Best Places Northwest!

Langley on Whidbey, it’s magic.

WICA

Nov. 22

Dec. 1

Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

WHIDBEY ISLAND CENTER FOR THE ARTS

315 FIRST ST., LANGLEY • 360.221.8202

Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

Dec. 9

“The Nutcracker” matinee performance Whidbey Island Dance Theatre presents the 20th Anniversary of the Nutcracker, 2 p.m. matinee at the South Whidbey High School Performing Arts Center.

Dec. 15-16

Historic Downtown Holiday Market Oak Harbor 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily.

Dec. 15

Holiday Stroll in Oak Harbor

«7

Dec. 22

Jan. 5

Feb. 1–17

3 p.m., Boy & Dog Park on First Street. $1,000 grand prize winner will be chosen from shoppers’ tickets.

Seawall Park, noon – 3 p.m.

Whidbey Playhouse, Oak Harbor. whidbeyplayhouse. com.

Langley White Ticket Drawing

Langley Centennial Sea Float Scramble

Jan. 5

Tingstad and Rumbel in Concert

Feb. 1-16

Coupeville Historic Waterfront Red Ticket Drawing

Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley.

Be there with tickets in hand at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 23 on the steps of the Island County Historical Museum, Coupeville. www. coupevillehistoricwater front.com.

Kitsch ‘N Bitch: “Comfort Foods”

Play by Jeff Baron, Outcast Productions, at Black Box Theater at Island County Fairgrounds. www. outcastproductions.net.

Dec. 23

Jan. 11

7:30 p.m., Langley, at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley

Jan. 16

Dec. 31

On Pioneer Way. Visit merchants and enjoy holiday treats. Also, don’t miss the Historic Downtown Green Ticket Cash Giveaway Drawing at 4 p.m.

Dec 16

Literary Series: Local Seattle Writers

New Year’s Eve party Sponsored by Langley Main Street Association, downtown Langley.

7:30 p.m., at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley.

Jan. 1

Jan. 26

Noon at Double Bluff Beach in Freeland.

Langley Main Street Association’s event featuring readings, history, and celebration of Langley’s Centennial in 2013. Held at Whidbey Island Center of the Arts.

“Living History”

Polar Bear Plunge

Jan. 1

“Slaphappy!

Holiday Concert” Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley. Visit www.WICAonline.com.

“It Runs in the Family”

New Year’s Day Fun Run

“Visiting Mr. Green”

Contributed photo

Feb 8–23

The above photo was taken during the first performance of “the Nutcracker” on Whidbey 20 years ago. The community is invited to celebrate the 20th anniversary performance at a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Dec. 9 at the South Whidbey High School Performing Arts Center.

Theatre Series at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley.

Feb 13

“Crimes of the Heart”

Feb. 11-12

Whidbey Allied Arts Show 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit with and see the art of Whidbey Allied Artists members at the Greenbank Farm Wine and Chocolates Art Show. For info, Margaret Livermore at 360-9692111.

Through Oak Harbor, www.ohdowntown.com.

Feb. 23-24

Langley Mystery Weekend

Literary Series Held at Whidbey Island Center of the Arts presented by Hedgebrook. www. hedgebrook.org.

Feb 14

Choochokam Benefit Concert Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley.

The world’s longest running murder mystery, begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday and wraps up at 4:30 p.m. Sunday with the murderer revealed and incarcerated. Awards given to top sleuths.

Feb 24

A Night at the Oscars WICA Annual Fund Benefit, at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley.

invites you to

100 years… a good beginning

LANGLEY’S CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION • DECEMBER 2012 • DECK

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

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Gift Gallery

local talents provide unique finds

By Justin Burnett | WHIDBEy news times

Shopping for that perfect handmade, locally crafted and one-of-a-kind gift is easier than you think.

For the past four years, the Pacific NorthWest Art School has offered a seasonal holiday gift gallery that’s loaded with a wide variety of items, from photography and paintings to jewelry and textiles.

“There’s a whole range of things and they are all affordable,” said Lisa Bernhardt, the school’s director.

Priced from $2 to $200, most of the work in the two-room gallery is small and that’s by design.

The idea is to have a large selection of pieces that won’t empty your pocketbook, Bernhardt said.

The school, which hosts nearly 80 classes and workshops during the year, puts on the gift gallery specifically for local artists. They pay a fee and their work is put up for sale, often for the first time.

It’s a chance to be recognized but it’s also a surefire way for holiday shoppers to get a locally made product that is totally unique. Every one of the artists with work in this year’s gallery are from CONTINUED ON Page 9

Justin Burnett/Whidbey News-Times

Pacific NorthWest Art School Director Lisa Bernhardt hangs a picture in the school’s holiday gift gallery. Open through Dec. 21, it’s the place where you’re sure to pick up a locally made, one-of-a-kind gift.

Justin Burnett/Whidbey News-Times

Shawls and throws made by Coupeville artist Janis Saunders will be among a range of items made by local artists at the Pacific NorthWest Art School’s holiday gift gallery.

Where clothing & yarns commingle in a creative, fun environment...

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Colors to delight the eye...

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Come enjoy the experience!

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209 First Street, Langley • 221-1070 • Mon-Sun 11-5

Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012 Whidbey Island.

“It’s not like going to the mall,” Bernhardt said. “Odds are, if you buy a scarf, it’s the only one like it.”

Some of this year’s textiles are made right here in Coupeville.

Nestled in her home workshop on NE Fourth Street, expert hand-weaver and braid-maker Janis Saunders makes women’s wear and jewelry that’s guaranteed to impress.

Saunders has more than 30 years of experience and has become a master of her craft. The proof is in the weaving. She produces patterns on looms that range from the simple to the overly complex.

“I’m fascinated with patterns,” Saunders said. “The possibilities are endless.”

Her shawls and throws are particularly lovely. She very nearly made a sale during her interview with a Whidbey News-Times reporter.

«9 Saunders says artists put a lot of themselves into their work and that can often produce very good results.

It’s a special feeling when a person identifies with it and decides to take it home, she said.

“When someone buys your work, it’s just very, very pleasing,” Saunders said.

According to Bernhardt, Saunders is one of 18 artists with work featured in this year’s gallery. Located on NW Birch Street in Coupeville, hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, until Dec. 21.

The gift gallery will also be open during the Greening of Coupeville event weekend, which takes place Dec. 1 and Dec. 2.

Justin Burnett/Whidbey News-Times

Janis Saunders of Stonepath Textile Studio in Coupeville sets up a loom for use. She is one of 18 Whidbey Island artists whose work will be for sale at the Pacific NorthWest Art School’s holiday gift gallery.

Justin Burnett/Whidbey News-Times

Saunders has a colorful array of stylish one-of-a-kind woven scarves available at the gift gallery show.

Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

10 »

Make holiday shopping a journey in

Langley

By Ben Watanabe | South Whidbey Record

Ben Watanabe/The Record

Josh Hauser, owner of Moonraker Books, holds a pair of her recommended holiday reads and gifts.

She has a large selection of eclectic calendars.

Langley has a lot to offer shoppers.

The best part? All the shops are within walking distance, at most two blocks apart — closer than most malls.

The Village by the Sea on South Whidbey Island has a host of holiday gifts. A short stroll down First, Second and Third street takes visitors to spas, salons, chocolate, cupcakes, books and boutiques of fashion and flair.

For shoppers from across the ferry, the visit can become a daylong holiday trip. And the shops have plans to make it worth customers’ while with a bounty of specials for the holiday shopping season.

People looking to pamper someone special can swing by the Langley Salon & Spa or Whidbey Island Soap Company. The all-natural soaps feature soft fragrances like

English rose or lavender-lemongrassclove.

“They’re all natural,” said owner Kimberly Tiller. “We want to keep our customers around a while.”

Tiller and her son, David Tiller, have plans to package some of their items for ideal gift sets. Bath melts will be shaped like snowmen and packaged gifts like the men’s shaving set with brush and shaving cream make quick-and-easy presents.

“We’re going to be doing some cute things that we’ve never done before,” said Kimberly Tiller.

Just a few doors down on First Street, fashion boutiques reign. Add some attitude with an accessories bonanza at the Sassy Siren. Shop owner Tracey Fleisher knows all the current and upcoming trends and has stocked her shop accordingly. Wrist See LANGLEY, Page 11

‘Tis The Season! angley L in n u f o d Must.

4 p.m k Nov. 24 at 1. ar P ey gl an L ec in D 1. Sing carolsat in the Holiday Paradeta at o an fl S a h er it ken w 2. Ent the dog! ily photos ta 3. Have fam & Garden Dec. 1. Bring liday o h m ar 0 0 Bayview F enter the $1,0drawing at 3 p.m. & ly al c lo p ec. 22 4. Sho n’t forget D an’s giveaway. Do ent at Callah am rn o n w o r .

5. Blow you ss Studio & Gallery ICA. la W G e at s ” u ge o o eh ro ir c F find family to “S ft shows to gi 6. Take the ’ s ie er ll ga e 7. Head to thof-a-kind presents. wines in ne o t ec perf hile sipping w s ta s vi ry te yard-side.

8. Enjoy win ater- or vine w , s m o ro ntown myriad tasting doors in dow te ri vo fa r u t. yo ors contes 9. Vote for Deck the Do p e th in ey gl oo Lan he Langley L T re lo p x E .

10 over ...

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Local Food Products Closed Mon & Tue Wine Bottle Gift Boxes Logo Stemware and Tumblers 5237 Langley Rd., Langley Wine Club Gift Memberships www.whidbeyislandwinery.com

Photo by Ron Roesler

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ils r all the deta ngley.com fo Go to visitla Cheer Giveaway ay on the Holid d more. an 00 1,0 $ for

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

by Stephen L. Carter and “Beautiful Ruins” by Jess Walter for bookworms on gift lists.

Hauser had one top tip before giving the gift of reading for a present.

“Buy a book that you like so have a mutual bond,” she said.

Keep kids and the New Year in mind, too. Calendars of everything

ack

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Langley’s own Outdoor Recreation Equipment and Apparel Shop b

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Kim Rossi, LMP, CCT Licensed Massage Practitioner, Certified Cupping Therapist

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seasonal equipment

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See LANGLEY, Page 12

casual and tech

cookwar

Music for the Eyes

tents

from Curious George to Monet and imaginative reads like “Dragonology” and “Pirateology” are available at Moonraker. The book store honors its loyal customers with $15 coupons for every $150 spent there.

Follow your nose and desires across the street, where Whidbey Cupcakes rewards its customers with tasty treats. The little shop has some

seasonal desserts planned that will delight more than just tastebuds.

A chocolate cupcake with ganache coating in the shape of a Christmas tree on top is an ideal party treat as well as a quick gift.

“It’s so pretty,” said Ann Spink, who runs the shop with her daughters. “It has a yellow star on top of it. It’s just so cute.”

There will also be hot buttered

WANDER ON WHIDBEY Great Gifts for the outdoor adventurers on your list from tents to stocking stuffers, boots to jackets, you’ll find something to suit your budget

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and much mo

$15 or less

Plus thousands of unusual Beads!

Sale prices on some of the all natural scented bath products, below, make a great gift choice more affordable.

nical apparel

Gifts for Everyone

Ben Watanabe/The Record

David Tiller wraps some English rose-scented soap bars. The co-owner of Whidbey Island Soap Company has some gift sets, such as a men’s shaving kit with brush and cream, planned.

e

warmers, fingerless gloves, scarves that double as knit headbands and vegan, washable purses and handbags.

“We cater to the local people,” Fleisher said. “We keep it fun and affordable.”

Knit scarves/headbands with crocheted flowers cost $18.

Necklace sets, which Fleisher said were popular during homecoming, run up to $14. Aluminum wallets adorned with plastic jewels and hot pink animal prints were touted as a holiday gift that also protects credit card and debit card information. The vegan bags in a variety of colors and sizes are made from a vinyl and polymer blend to make them easily cleanable and cost about $50.

“Things move quickly in here,” Fleisher said.

Her wares will move especially fast soon. The Sassy Siren will have its annual Black Friday sale Friday, Nov. 23 and Saturday, Nov. 24, as well as the third year of its “Mega Diva” inventory reduction sale Dec. 26-31.

“Every bag, every wallet, jewelry gets blown out,” Fleisher said.

Continue down the sidewalk to run into a literature haven at Moonraker Books. Owner Josh Hauser highlighted Laurie King’s “Garment of Shadows,” “The Impeachment of Abraham Lincoln”

« 11

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

12 »

LANGLEY CONTINUED FROM 11 rum and hot chocolate cupcakes.

Whidbey Cupcakes offers minicupcakes, too, which can be ordered by the dozen.

Sweets make for delectable presents. And few shops know that quite like Sweet Mona’s, which specializes in all things chocolate.

For the holidays, keep an eye on

fudge sets like the packaged ones already on display with a cinnamonchocolate star, eggnog snowman, maple toffee Christmas tree, orange cream present and apple-cinnamon heart bundled into a dark chocolate sleigh. Mona’s also has peppermint chocolate bars and “caramallows” — three marshmallows on a stick, dipped into caramel and chocolate.

Langley Chamber of Commerce has a PDF map for its shops online at www.visitlangley.com/downloads/ langley_38.pdf.

Ben Watanabe/The Record

Julia Lawrence, one of the chocolatiers at Sweet Mona’s, presents a tray of caramallows. The marshmallows on a stick are dipped into caramel and chocolate.

Ben Watanabe/The Record

Sweet Mona’s has chocolate and fudge sets perfect for holiday gifts for certain sweet tooths on one’s shopping list. This set has cinnamon, orange cream, mapletoffee, apple-cinnamon and eggnog flavors, all of which can be put into a dark chocolate sleigh.

Ben Watanabe/The Record

Jean Fleisher, owner of Sassy Siren, highlights the assortment of scarves that double as headbands and wristwarmers. The walls of her shop are covered with accessories, including jewelry, purses, handbags and gloves in an array of colors.

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

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Goosefoot tree keeps on giving The nonprofit Goosefoot hosts a wonderful Whidbey Island tradition in the middle of the Cash Store Hub during December: “The Giving Tree.”

This year will be its ninth and the dates are Dec. 5 through Dec. 31.

Participating Whidbey Island non profits make ornaments that are placed on the tree and sold, with all proceeds returned to the non profits. Goosefoot buys and lights the tree and organizes the hanging of the ornaments.

A first floor merchant collects and keeps track of the ornament purchases.

“We would really like to bring renewed attention and interest to the Giving Tree this year, in order to maximize both the donations and attention for our local non profits.

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by each organization is also made available under the tree,” said Marian Myszkowski, speaking for Goosefoot.

“We thought interest in this project might start fading away, especially after so many years. To the contrary, groups are still very enthusiastic about participating in the Giving Tree and look forward to it every year.”

Some groups like Enso House have participated each of the eight years Myszkowski has been involved.

A Giving Tree ornament project for the South Whidbey Children’s Center has now turned into an important annual fundraiser. One of Whidbey’s animal services groups made homemade doggie biscuit ornaments one year.

The following have confirmed their participation so far: Saratoga Community Housing, South Whidbey Children’s Center, Good Cheer, South Whidbey Tilth, Enso House, Kids First–Island County, Whidbey Island Nourishes (WIN), Orca Network, and Time Together Adult Day Services/ Senior Service.

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

CLAY

CONTINUED FROM 4 students. Lobell and Attwood always have at least one apprentice. Currently, they have two: Jordan Jones from Vancouver, Wash. and Clovy Tsuchiya from Colorado Springs, Colo. Their work will join that of Lobell and Attwood at Cook on Clay’s annual holiday sale set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15 and Sunday, Dec. 16.

They will serve food cooked in the flameware–once you taste it, there’s no going back.

Through Christmas, a portion of sales will go to Gifts from the Heart Food Bank, which serves Central Whidbey. Their mission of returning people to the table includes everyone, Attwood and Lobell said.

Accompanying the flameware are spirit houses made by Attwood. Consisting of colorfully glazed clay, each house is unique.

Spirit houses stem from Tai and Cambodian animist traditions that spirit houses appease nature spirits. They make beautiful garden art to enjoy while picking herbs and vegetables to use in Cook on Clay flameware, Lobell said.

“Our goal is to return people to the table,” Attwood said.

“And from the kitchen to the table, to cook in pots that can also be helpful and artful in the process of cooking,” Lobell added.

Cook on Clay is part of the Whidbey Art Trail, which features studios throughout Whidbey Island year-round where visitors can meet artists and watch them work in their element. For more information about the Whidbey Art Trail, visit whidbeyarttrail.com.

To order a piece or visit Cook on Clay, call 360-678-1414. Order soon for the best selection, since there are a limited number of firings.

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

« 15

Don’t think “used,” think

Vintage

By KATHY REED | Staff reporter

For anyone who likes to give nice gifts but doesn’t like the dent holiday shopping can make in a bank account, there is an alternative.

Giving a second-hand gift is an idea that has a lot people heading to antique and thrift stores — both of which are plentiful on Whidbey Island — to find unique, one-of-a kind gifts, not just for the holidays, but all year round.

“It’s always Christmas here; you never know what you’re going to get,” said Tandi Roberts, manager of Senior Services of Island County’s Community Thrift Store in Freeland.

“I think there are treasures to behold,” she said. “Not necessarily for every person, but there are definite treasures.”

Gone are the days of dark, dingy thriftstore shopping. As shoppers have become more savvy, so has the thrift store community.

Stores that thrive are clean, organized and have merchandise that is fairly priced.

“People like that it’s so neat and clean,” said

Kathy Reed photo

Many Whidbey Island thrift stores, like Community Thrift in Freeland, have an abundance of clothing for sale, even designer items, that are clean and in good condition.

See Vintage, Page 16

Kathy Reed photo

Antique and vintage items ranging from furniture to knick knacks are available at reasonable prices at area thrift and antique stores like Michael-John’s Trading Post in Oak Harbor.

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

16 »

Vintage

Kathy Reed photos

At left, thrift and antique stores are a great place to look for toys and other collectable items, such as these Barbie dolls at Community Thrift in Freeland.

CONTINUED FROM 15 Ida Martinez, manager of Island Thrift in Oak Harbor. “People are very impressed, because they can find designer clothes, name brand shoes and awesome toys for Christmas.”

Michael-John Paparella, owner of Michael-John’s Trading Post on Pioneer Way in downtown Oak Harbor, says a constantly revolving inventory makes people want to come in and look at what’s new each week. Plus, buying vintage or antique items saves green while being green.

“We have a lot of ‘green’ people here in this area,” he said. “They tend to buy recycled items rather than new. They like the idea that they’re able to reuse things, plus older items were made to last — they’re good quality, so people know they’ll have them for a long time.”

“You can go into a (big box) store and find a whole wall full of one thing,” Roberts said. “But if you shop here, we don’t sell one particular item in quantity. It’s a treasure because it’s unique.”

“I can get new things for my friends and loved ones at good prices,” said Marie Hamilton of Oak Harbor as to why she shops in thrift stores. “I can spend within my

Books make great holiday gifts, and there is a big selection at several Whidbey Island thrift stores, like these at Island Thrift in Oak Harbor. There are many excellent used bookstores all over the island as well. budget and still buy different things for all the grandkids.”

Hamilton said she looks for gift items all year round and she, too, likes the idea that items are being reused and not going to waste.

“I do a lot of my Christmas shopping here. It’s less stressful,” she said. “I find the neatest things and it’s not the amount of money you spend on anything that’s important.”

“We have just about anything you can think of,” said Wendy Kettlewell, executive director of Island Thrift.

“We have a fabulous selection of books; people love to get books.”

“The most popular gift items I’m seeing this year are purses and jewelry,” Paparella said. “This is a great place to come for a guy who CONTINUED ON Page 17 Kathy Reed photo

Imagine serving tea or coffee in this pretty vintage set found at Michael-John’s Trading Post in Oak Harbor. China teacups with matching saucers always make a nice gift when paired with someone’s favorite teas.

Vintage and gently-used designer handbags are also a big seller this time of year at MichaelJohn’s Trading Post.

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

« 17

Kathy Reed photos

At left, thrift stores are a great place to look for children’s toys, as indicated by shelves crammed with colorful items at Island Thrift in Oak Harbor. All items accepted for sale must be in working condition.

Holiday items for gift-giving and decorating are already finding their way into thrift and antique stores on Whidbey Island, above.

wants to find something different for his wife.”

There are other compelling reasons to shop at local thrift and antique stores. Obviously, shopping locally means you’re supporting the local economy. But many of the thrift stores on Whidbey Island benefit other causes.

Proceeds earned at Island Thrift help fund community projects.

Community Thrift in Freeland benefits Island County Senior Services; WAIF stores in Oak Harbor and Freeland benefit the Whidbey Animals’ Improvement Foundation; and My Father’s House Community Thrift Store on Pioneer Way in Oak Harbor uses proceeds to support North Whidbey Help House, Oak Harbor Youth Sports and adoption assistance for Whidbey Island residents.

“Cause is part of the equation, but it’s not necessarily the first reason people shop here,” Roberts said.

“You can dress good, look good, at a fraction of the cost,” said Martinez.

“People know you by name. It’s a friendly atmosphere,” Paparella said.

“We’re a shoe that doesn’t fit everyone; people come in for different reasons,” said Roberts. “But you’ll never know if you don’t come in.”

Presents are nice but food is essential.

Give the gift of hope this holiday season.

Kathy Reed photo

Marie Hamilton shows off an item she found at Island Thrift in Oak Harbor that she said will make a nice gift for a friend.

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Donate to Good Cheer Food Bank this holiday season.

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Please help us keep the Food Bank shelves stocked for our families.

Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

18 »

traditions

By Jessie Stensland | WHIDBEy news times

This holiday season, create a lasting memory by loading up the kids in the car and driving to a Christmas tree farm on Whidbey Island. Children and adults will have a wonderful time roaming the wintery acres in search of the perfect specimen to tie to the top of their vehicles and haul home for decorating.

Whidbey Island offers a few different tree farms for families to choose from. They include the following: Hennrich Tree Farm is located between Oak Harbor and Coupeville at 1651 Hastie Lake Road. The tree farm has a wonderful atmosphere, with people sipping hot chocolate around a glowing bonfire. It’s a very popular you-cut farm, so get there early in the season before the trees run out. Call 360-914-1076 for information.

Scattered Acres Christmas Tree Farm is the place to go on

South Whidbey. It’s located at 7111 Heggenes Road in Clinton. It opens Nov. 23 and continues until Dec. 16. The hours for tree cutting is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 360341-4198 for more information.

A Knot in Thyme is located at 4233 DeGraff Road, north of Oak Harbor. Instead of you-cut trees, the farm offers horse-drawn wagon rides complete with carolers clad in Victorian-era clothes. The ride takes visits to the back of the farm, where they can choose from pre-cut noble, grand and Fraser fir trees. In addition, the farm has a holly orchard and guests can purchase wreaths, garlands, swags and bulk holly in the store.

For information, call 240-1216.

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Annual Tour of magical holiday homes Celebrate magical holiday decorations at the fourth annual Oak Harbor Soroptimist Christmas Home Tour from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8.

The event features five homes on North Whidbey Island. Each home offers a homemade cookie and recipe card.

Tickets are $15 from the Casual House, Oak Harbor Hallmark, Oak Harbor Soroptimist members or by calling Barb Jacobs at 679-8531. A tour map is included with tickets.

“It’s just a nice tradition for Oak Harbor, and something Oak Harbor Soroptimists really love doing,” Jacobs said, adding that touring the homes has become an annual tradition for many Oak Harbor families.

“There are five wonderfully decorated homes and each home will have a special homemade cookie recipe for visitors to taste,” Jacobs said. Tour-goers can collect all of the unique recipes to try for themselves.

This year, two of the homes will be north of Dugualla Bay, two will be near the golf course and one will be off Fakkema Road.

The homes are all different.

“Some have all kinds of trees decorated in all kinds of themes,

other have a rustic lodge feel,” Jacobs said.

“One of the owners is going to play piano and you can join in and sing Christmas carols,” Jacobs said.

Candy canes with lights on top will mark each driveway, and tickets include a map and directions. Jacobs encouraged visitors to carpool as parking is limited at some of the homes.

Proceeds go toward improving the lives of women and girls on Whidbey Island. The money “stays local,” Jacobs said, through projects like offering mammograms and scholarships to women and girls in need.

Soroptimists International of Oak Harbor is a chapter of the world’s largest women’s service organization, consisting of dedicated professional women who are recognized in the community as enthusiastic leaders and visionaries; who provide enhancement to the quality of life through friendship, education, service, advocacy and financial support; who are totally committed to bettering humanity locally, nationally and globally, for the purpose of making a difference for and advancing the status of women and girls.

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

« 19

Quaint and festive shopping on

Pioneer Way

By Elisabeth Murray | WHIDBEy Examiner

Elisabeth Murray Photo

A Christmas display greets shoppers at The Rusty Chandelier.

The home decor shop carries both practical gifts and more whimsical ones to lift the spirits of the recipient.

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This holiday season shops on SE Pioneer Way in Oak Harbor are open for business - without any disruptions from road or sidewalk construction.

And the owners are eager for shoppers to stop on by and see how much this downtown hub has to offer.

The street has almost everything that you could hope to find in a shopping mall, but without the travel hassle and cost of gas, said Gloria Carothers, owner of the Jewelry Gallery located in Harborside Village.

“People can spend $30 to $40 on gas to head out of town and still not find what they are looking for,” said Carothers.

Plus, the small shops provide a quaint, festive atmosphere that tourists seek out and locals really appreciate, said Michael-John Paparella, owner of the antique store Michael-John’s Trading Post.

There is so much charm, added Sandy Merriman, co-owner of Wild Magnolia, a gift and home decor

boutique. And the Downtown Merchants Association sponsors a lot of great events that make this a fun destination, she said.

Stellar customer service also distinguishes the shops from chain competitors, said Victoria Matzen, co-owner of The Rusty Chandelier, a home decor shop.

“We attract customers who like to shop local,” said Matzen. “During construction, our support from our customers never faltered. We provide great customer service.”

And the customers are able to get to know the owners and vice versa, something that they won’t experience at larger retailers with more employee turnover, said Carothers.

“We know how to take care of our customers,” she said.

Matzen added that she carries locally produced items in her store, like the JennyBean Custom Coffee from Coupeville, and stocking this See Shopping, Page 20

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SHOPPING CONTINUED FROM 19 type of inventory keeps money in the community.

Like many at the Pioneer Way shops, Matzen said she has stocked the store with two kinds of items to meet her shoppers needs: practical items and more whimsical gifts to lift the spirits of the recipient. Casserole dishes from Gourmet du Village or the Thymes Frasier Fir Home Fragrance Collection line are always popular, said Matzen.

And the black and white wall signs that have inspirational or funny messages continue to be a big seller, she said.

“We have unique items that you can’t get in the mall,” said Matzen.

And Matzen said that jewelry remains a popular gift to give women.

Lynn Copeland, owner of Whidbey Inspiration, and Carothers both agree.

For every special piece of jewelry that a woman receives from a loved one, she can recall the time and place that she received it, said Carothers.

And shoppers can expect high quality at the independent shops, she said. Each and every piece that the Jewelry Gallery carries, Carothers has scrutinized and picked out individually.

At Whidbey Inspiration, a new shop on the street, Copeland and her daughter design and create their own jewelry. Goldstone, a mineral from China, sparkles in the sun, and Copeland said that they can’t keep it on the shelf.

The mother-daughter team also accepts commissions to create a special piece. Special orders need to be placed by Dec. 15.

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At Just Because, a home decor, gift and jewelry shop on Pioneer Way, a seasonal display stocked with snowflake items and reindeer greets customers as they walk in the door.

CONTINUED ON Page 21

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As the days shorten and the winter cold descends upon Whidbey Island, a cup of tea warms the belly and the spirits of the tea drinker. Wild Magnolia, a gift and home decor boutique on Pioneer Way sells the Tea forte winter spice tea line and the specialty cups and pots that go with it.

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012 this new shop. Copeland does embroidery work, and is making special Christmas tea towels. She also sells Precious Moments, and dolls. The dolls are particularly near and dear to her heart as she handpainted the dolls’ faces and sewed the dresses.

“The main reason I moved my business here is to bring business to downtown,” said Copeland. “There are a lot of new shops and they are a good reason to come downtown.”

Pioneer shop owners are also trying to meet their customers needs by carrying a wide variety of goods at different price points. Several said that they know that money may be tight.

At Baby N Me, owner Sandy Willmett said there is something in her store for almost any budget.

Baby Legs, super soft leg warmers for infants are popular this year, she said. They help crawlers scoot across hard floors, and keep them warm during changing times - something that reduces tears, she said.

Definitely for baby, and possibly for parents, too.

New parents are also asking to be gifted an Ergobaby carrier, she said.

The Garry Oak Gallery, which carries works from 26 artisans, also has items for sale that range in price from inexpensive, such as a bookmark, to several hundred dollars for a unique piece of art. All of the

« 21 Elisabeth Murray/Whidbey Examiner

At Baby N Me, owner Sandy Willmett said that Baby Legs are popular this year. These super soft leg warmers help crawlers scoot across hard floors, and keep them warm during changing times - something that reduces tears, she said. Definitely for baby, and possibly for parents, too.

Below, Lynn Copeland, owner of Whidbey Inspiration sells dolls at her shop on Pioneer Way. These keepsakes were hand painted by Copeland and the dresses were also sewn by her. At her store, she also sells custom design jewelry, custom embroidery work, and Precious Moments figurines.

items are locally made, said Sandy Dubpernell, glass artist with the coop.

Specialty shops, such as Popsies, the gourmet popcorn and specialty sweet shoppe, Mr. Music, the instrument and music store, Whidbey Wild Bird, the birding and backyard store, and The Noble Horse, the equestrian lifestyle boutique, also meet shoppers more specialized giftgiving needs.

But unlike the other shop owners, Paparella advises people to head off island, if for no other reason than to learn which side the grass is greener, or the shopping more rewarding.

“It really makes you appreciate what you’ve got right here,” he said.

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

22 »

A lavender touch for Coupeville’s Red Ticket

By NATHAN WHALEN | WHIDBEy news times

With its art galleries, unique gift shops and quaint restaurants, the historic town of Coupeville provides a low-key getaway for shoppers looking for the perfect gift for Christmas.

More than two dozen businesses are thriving in the historic buildings that line the roads of downtown Coupeville.

There is a new sweet-smelling business that recently opened in one of the town’s historic homes.

The Lavender Wind opened in October and offers an array of lavender-infused products that are sure to attract shoppers looking for an unusual holiday gift and hoping to win a $1,000 prize.

“We make all of our products,” Lavender Wind owner Sarah Richards said.

She rattled off a list of food products that included baking mixes, scones, quiches and other lavenderinfused items she sells out of the historic Cushman House, which was built in 1916 and located at the

corner of Alexander and Coveland streets in downtown Coupeville.

“People love it when they come in here,” Richards said.

She owns a nine-acre farm located off West Beach Road that focuses on growing the sweetsmelling shrub.

Richards has been renovating the historic home for months. The painstaking work transformed it from a single-family home to a showroom and commercial kitchen that will allow her to produce food and hold cooking classes.

The Lavender Wind is just one of a number of quirky shops and businesses that line the roads through downtown Coupeville. In addition to Richards’ new shop, several venerable businesses are thriving throughout Coupeville.

The Honey Bear offers an interesting selection of sweets, stuffed animals and educational based toys, while Far From Normal, See COUPEVILLE, Page 23

Nathan Whalen/Whidbey News-Times

Vail Wine Shop & Tasting Room Eagles Song Health & Wellness Christopher’s on Whidbey Streamers of Coupeville Windjammer Gallery Front Street Realty The Oystercatcher Front Street Grill Far From Normal The Honey Bear Knead & Feed Lavender Wind Kim’s Café bayleaf

Island County Historical Museum Garden Isle Guest Cottages& Vacation Home Elkhorn Trading Company Coupeville Auto Repair Collections Boutique Penn Cove Gallery The Coupeville Inn The Vintage Perch Back to the Island One More Thing!

Toby’s Tavern Aqua Gifts

Bayleaf owner Beth Kuchynka shows the red tickets shoppers in Coupeville will receive every time they spend $20 at merchants in downtown Coupeville.

Those tickets are part of a $1,000 drawing that will take place in December before Christmas.

Choose from 15 Acres of Trees grown right behind the barn!

Douglas & Frasier Fir Trees Free Pictures with Santa on the weekends

13 Varieties of our Famous Fruit Pies plus a Seasonal Pumpkin Pie

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Whidbey Holiday Guide 2012

« 23

located just down the block on Front Street, sells some of the more unusual novelties a shopper will find on Whidbey Island.

Historic downtown Coupeville is also home to Aqua, a Touch of Dutch and Collections, which are popular gift shops. The Penn Cove Gallery features work produced by the island’s most noteworthy artists. Several clothes stores are also open for business.

Popular restaurants ranging from Mosquito Fleet Chili to Christophers on Whidbey provide a place to enjoy lunch or dinner while perusing the shops.

Beth Kuchynka, owner of Bayleaf and coordinator of the Coupeville Historic Waterfront Association’s Red Ticket promotion, is offering gift baskets and personal shopping times, during which people can receive one-on-one customer service that they’ll appreciate, Kuchynka said.

The holiday season also marks the beginning of Coupeville’s Red Ticket promotion, now in its fifth year.

For every $20 spent at one of the 27 participating businesses in Coupeville’s historic business district, a shopper will receive one entry into a drawing that takes place in December. The drawing includes three $100 cash drawings, as well as a $1,000 grand prize drawing.

“It’s a fun way for people to support their downtown merchants,” Kuchynka said.

The $1,000 prize will come in the form of a stack of $2 bills. She said it’s an amusing way to award the money and it allows merchants a way to see if the Red Ticket money is coming back into Coupeville.

Nathan Whalen/Whidbey News-Times

Lavender Wind owner Sarah Richards shows some of the lavender bundles she’s selling out of her new store in downtown Coupeville.

Everything from soaps to baking mixes to home scent products can be found there.

From living rooms to kids room, we carry it all.

Elizabeth Murray Photo

Aqua in Coupeville has a wide array of ocean-themed holiday decorative items and gifts available, from candles to ornaments.

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