360 February 26, 2015

‘MAGICAL ENCHANTMENT’ SKAGIT OPERA PRESENTS “CINDERELLA (LA CENERENTOLA)” PAGE 4

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday February 26, 2015

TUNING UP

THIS WEEKEND International Guitar Night returns to the Lincoln on Saturday

Mojo Cannon plays the Conway Muse on Saturday night PAGE 9

ON STAGE SVC drama department presents “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”

PAGE 3

PAGE 8

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, February 26, 2015

SATURDAY NIGHT STAGE DIVES

CAN HAPPEN

YOUR ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION GUIDE TO WHAT’S GOING ON IN SKAGIT COUNTY AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

Tuning Up / Page 9 The HolmesShea Band plays the Edison Inn on Saturday night

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Out & About.....................................5-6 Hot Tickets.......................................... 7 On Stage, Tuning Up........................8-9 New on DVD..................................... 10

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EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING

Laura Krumm (left) and Sarah Mattox appear in Skagit Opera’s production of “Cinderella.”

Craig Parrish / Skagit Valley Herald

Mailing address P.O. Box 578 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Online events calendar To list your event on our website, visit goskagit.com and look for the Events Calendar on the home page HAVE A STORY IDEA? Contact Features Editor Craig Parrish at 360-416-2135 or features@skagitpublishing.com TO ADVERTISE 360-424-3251

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

THIS WEEKENDin the area

Thursday, February 26, 2015 - E3

School Blue Horizon Jazz Choir and Jazz Band will perform at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, in the high school cafeteria, 1235 Third St., Sedro-Woolley. Free admission.

Desserts and coffee available for a donation. Proceeds will support scholarships, travel expenses and music class-related fees for SWHS music students. 360-8553510.

ANDREW YORK

SMELT DERBY The La Conner Rotary’s

BRIAN GORE

SIX-STRINGS, INTERNATIONAL VIRTUOSITY

S-W JAZZ NIGHT The Sedro-Woolley High

International Guitar Night returns to Mount Vernon at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St. Brian Gore started International Guitar Night in 1995 as a way to showcase some of the world’s best acoustic guitarists. For this North American tour, Gore is joined by classical innovator and fellow Californian Andrew York, Brazilian jazz master Diego Figueiredo and contemporary IranianCanadian steel string prodigy Maneli Jamal. $23-$32, discount for Lincoln members.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

DIEGO FIGUEIREDO

MANELI JAMAL

Joao Henrique Steffen photo

Ali Manhoubi photo

annual Smelt Derby Festival will take place from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, with activities scheduled around La Conner. A pancake breakfast to benefit La Conner High School seniors will start the day from 8 to 11 a.m. at Maple Hall, followed by fish painting and other children’s activities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The 5K and 10K Smelt Run, a 2K walk and Small Fry Kids Dash will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the La Conner Elementary School gym, 305 N. Sixth St. The smelt fishing derby will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the La Conner public docks. A new event for adults, called Sliders, Suds & Spirits, will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at Maple Hall, followed by dancing to The Esquires from 7 to 10 p.m., with a smelt raffle at 8 p.m.

Cost: Children’s activities are free, breakfast $6, fishing derby $2, run/walk $20, dinner $12, dance $10. For a list of activities and run registration: skagitsymphony.com or 360-466-4778.

SNOW GOOSE FEST The 10th annual Port Susan Snow Goose & Birding Festival is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 28-March 1, with a variety of activities at the Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. Events are scheduled both days at several locations around Stanwood and Camano Island. Enjoy guided and unguided birding tours, displays and presentations, kids’ activities and more. Advance registration is required for guided tours. snowgoosefest.org.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, February 26, 2015

ON STAGE

Skagit Opera stages a legendary tale Sarah Mattox

Photos by Craig Parrish / Skagit Valley Herald

Laura Krumm and Jonathan Silvia appear in Skagit Opera’s production of “Cinderella.”

Skagit Valley Herald staff

A legendary story will be brought to life via soaring voices as Skagit Opera stages “Cinderella (La Cenerentola),” beginning a four-performance run on Friday, Feb. 27, at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon.

It’s a timeless tale of overcoming adversity, as Cinderella endures her cruel, vain stepsisters, stepmother and stepfather in the hopes of finding love and happiness.

Erich Parce is the stage director, the

orchestra is conducted by Dean Williamson, and Mitchell Kahn is Skagit Opera’s general director.

The score is by Gioachino Rossini, “considered to be one of his greatest operatic achievements,” according to a news release.

“While there is no coach and no glass slipper, and a wise old philosopher instead of a fairy godmother, magical enchantment abounds in the miraculous score, which soars between high comedy and heartfelt emotion.”

Christina Kowalski (from left), Andy Papas and Sarah Mattox

‘Cinderella (La Cenerentola)’ Presented by Skagit Opera When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Feb. 27 and March 6; 3 p.m. Sundays, March 1 and 8 Where: McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon Tickets: $25-$59 Note: Opening Night Gala Dinner: 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27. $75. 360-4167727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 26, 2015 - E5

OUT & ABOUT ART

Goff and Barbara Hathaway, ceramics; George Way IN THE ART BAR: Paint- and Art Learmonth, wood; ings and drawings by Kristin Carole Cunningham and Loffer Theiss are on display Debbie Aldrich, jewelry; through February at the Martha Tottenham, handLincoln Theatre Art Bar, 712 woven scarves; Vicki HamS. First St., Mount Vernon. pel, gourd art; and other artAs well as teaching art off ists. The gallery is open from and on since 1996 at Skagit 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday Valley College, Theiss is a through Saturday or by working artist with her own appointment. 360-293-3577 design and printmaking business. Her work has been or annemartinmccool.com. featured in museum shops, “THE QUIET OF WINprivate collections, publicaTER”: An exhibition feations and gallery exhibitions turing a new collection of throughout the world. 360oil paintings

by Dederick 336-8955 or lincolntheatre.

Ward continues through org.

March 3 at Scott Milo Gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., ARTISTS IN LOVE: The Anacortes. Also showing: eighth annual “Artists in color photographs by John Love, with Life and Each Holtman, acrylics by Larry Other” show, featuring the art of Mary Jo Oxrieder and Heald, watercolors by Larry Mason and oils by Damon Windwalker Taibi, continues through March 4 at 765 Brown, as well as a selection of jewelry, glass work, sculpWonn Road, Greenbank. tures and tables by other The gallery will also showcase new works by other gal- gallery artists. The gallery is lery artists. For information, open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturincluding hours and direcday or by appointment. 360tions, call 360-222-0102 or visit ravenrocksgallery.com. 293-6938 or scottmilo.com.

JURIED ART EXHIBIT: Check out the Spring Juried Exhibit through May 29 at the Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden. The exhibition showcases the work of artists from around the region, including Anacortes artists Caroline Garland and Donna Nevitt-Radtke. The gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. 360-354-3600 or jansenartcenter.org.

OILS & ACRYLICS: A show of paintings by Anacortes artist Caroline Garland continues through February at Fourth Corner Frames and Gallery, 311 W. Holly St., Bellingham. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 360-734-1340 or fourthcornerframes.com.

AVIAN ART: A show of avian-influenced paintings

by Kat Houseman and JusART GALLERY: “Inscrip- tin Gibbens, and sculptures tion,” a show of paintings by from Peregrine O’Gormley, Anne Martin McCool, con- Kristin Loffer Theiss and Marceil DeLacy continues tinues through February at through March 1 at Smith & McCool Gallery, 711 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. The Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey gallery also features work by Ave., Edison. The gallery other gallery artists, includ- is open from 11 a.m. to 5 ing Tracy Powell, sculptures; p.m. daily. 360-766-6230 or smithandvallee.com.

Stephen Roxborough and Bryce Mann, photography; MIXED MEDIA: A show Patsy Chamberlain, Cathy of mixed media artwork by Schoenberg, Marguerite

PAINTINGS AND MORE AT MCCOOL

“Inscription,” featuring paintings by Anne Martin McCool and works by other gallery artists, will open with a reception during the First Friday Gallery Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 6, and continue through March at McCool Gallery, 711 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. The gallery will also show works by other gallery artists, including Tracy Powell, sculptures; Stephen Roxborough and Bryce Mann, photography; Patsy Chamberlain, Cathy Schoenberg, Marguerite Goff and Barbara Hathaway, ceramics; George Way and Art Learmonth, wood; Carole Cunningham and Debbie Aldrich, jewelry; Martha Tottenham, hand-woven scarves; Vicki Hampel, gourd art; and other artists.

The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday or by appointment. 360-293-3577 or annemartinmccool.com. Pictured: “Earth Inscription”

by Anne Martin McCool Abraham Murley continues through Friday at the Skagit Valley College Art Gallery, located in the Gary Knutzen Cardinal Center on the SVC campus, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. The gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through

Friday. 360-416-7812.

REPRESENTATIONAL PAINTINGS: A show of representational paintings by Andy Friedlander continues through March at Il Caffe Rifugio, 5415 Mount Baker Highway, one-half mile east

of Highway 9. For information, contact the artist at 360-420-6171 or the café at ilcafferifugio.com.

5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison.

“THREADS” is a modern take on folk and outsider art — reinterpreting traditional themes and mediums to tell FEMALE ARTISTS: Matz- stories that are valid and relevant today. Gallery hours ke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park will present are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

“Six Journeys,” opening with 360-766-6230 or smithand vallee.com. a party and potluck from 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, and continuing through FESTIVALS April 12, at 2345 Blanche PENN COVE MUSSELFWay, Camano Island. The EST: The 29th annual event show includes original artwill take place from 10 works by Dona Anderson, a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and woven fiber; Lin McJunkin, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, pate de verre glass/steel; March 7-8, along the hisCarol Milne, kiln cast glass; toric Coupeville waterfront.

Mary Molyneaux, collage Enjoy chowder tasting, acrylic paintings; Anita cooking demonstrations, Mayer, clothing designer; boat rides, live music, musand Patricia Resseguie, fiber sel-eating competitions and and installations. The gallery more fun for all ages. is open from 11 a.m. to 5 The weekend will also p.m. weekends, weekdays by include the fifth annual appointment. 360-387-2759 “Mussels in the Kettles” or matzkefineart.com.

Mountain Bike Poker Ride SLIDE PRESENTATION: Northwest Designer Craftsmen member Layne Goldsmith will speak about the organization and the work of its members from 6 to 7 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner. Northwest Designer Craftsmen was founded in 1954 by some of the luminaries of the postwar crafts movement in the Northwest.

Today, there are more than 150 members working in all disciplines, from weaving, quilting and basketry to jewelry and metal arts, as well as clay, glass, wood and mixed media. Free. 360-4664446 or monamuseum.org.

“THREADS”: A show of new work by Kelly Bjork, Phoebe Wahl, Ries Niemi, Hannah Ruth Levi, Hollie Chastain, Jennifer Dranttel and Natalie Novak will open with a reception for the artists from 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 7, and continue through March 29 at Smith & Vallee Gallery,

and the Spring Art Tour featuring artists’ studios. Free admission. 360-678-5434 or thepenncovemusselfestival. com.

LECTURES AND TALKS WORLD ISSUES FORUM: Western Washington University’s Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies holds its annual World Issues Forum from noon to 1:20 p.m. Wednesdays in the Fairhaven College auditorium on the WWU campus in Bellingham. Presentations are free and open to the public. 360-650-2309 or wwu. edu/fairhaven/news/world issuesforum. Next up: March 4: “Undoing Border Imperialism”: South Asian activist, writer and educator Harsha Walia will offer insights for grass roots and social movement organizers on effective strategies to cultivate sustainable communities of resistance striving toward liberation.

Continued on Page 6

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, February 26, 2015

OUT & ABOUT “SERIOUSLY FUNNY: HUMOR, FILM & PHILOSOPHY”: 7 p.m. today, Feb. 26, Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete.

As an instructor at Everett Community College for almost two decades, Mike VanQuickenborne has used film to teach about philosophy because films are so accessible to people, whether they’ve studied philosophy or not. He will use brief movie clips to start a conversation about philosophy and explore the issues raised. Free. 360-941-0403 or concrete-theatre.com.

the inequities or perceived inequities of institutional practices in America. Free.

For information, contact Vicki Hsueh at 360-650-2649 or Vernon Johnson at 360650-4874.

upperskagit.lib.wa.us.

MOVIE NIGHT: Enjoy a screening of “Song of the New Earth” at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., AnaSLIDE SHOW PRESENTA- cortes. The documentary film profiles the quest of TION: “Lance Burdon: A sound healer, psychotheraPhotographic Journey”: 2 pist and sonic shaman Tom to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 8, Kenyon to integrate modern Skagit County Historical science and ancient mystiMuseum, 501 Fourth St., cism through the power of La Conner. Historian Bret Lunsford will present a slide sound. $10 suggested donashow celebrating photogra- tion. 360-464-2229 or ana pher Lance Burdon, who at cortescenterforhappiness. the dawn of the 20th century org. embarked on a photographVEGETABLE GROWING: EDISON CHICKEN ic journey that provides an Transition Fidalgo & Friends inside look at pioneer life PARADE: The fourth annual will present “Vegetable on Fidalgo Island. Copies of Downtown Edison Chicken Growing in Skagit County” the book “Lance Burdon: Parade will take place at at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March noon Saturday, Feb. 28, startA Photographic Journey,” 3, at the Anacortes Public written by Burdon’s grand- ing at the west end of Cains Library, 1220 10th St., Ana- daughter Nancy Werner Court. Free. 360-766-6230. cortes. WSU professor Carol Mathews and published Miles will help beginning METAPHYSICAL PLAY by the Anacortes Museum and advanced organic garFoundation, will be on sale. DAY: Learn about current deners decide what to grow The presentation is free trends in metaphysics from and how to increase their with museum admission. $5 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, garden’s productivity.

Feb. 28, at Valerie’s Fine Art adults, $4 seniors and ages Free. Donations accepted.

Gallery, 7031 Old Highway 6-12, $10 families, free for transitionfidalgo.org. members and children ages 99, Burlington. Free. 3605 and younger. 360-466-3365 707-0107.

EXAMINING RACE: The or skagitcounty.net/museum.

Ralph Munro Institute for ENERGY FAIR: Anacortes Civic Engagement at Westis one of 50 cities nationwide “100 YEARS OF ANAern Washington University competing in an energy CORTES PARKS”: 7 p.m. will host “Examining Race, Wednesday, March 11, Ana- contest. At stake is the $5 Civic Engagement and million Georgetown Unicortes Public Library, 1220 Citizenship Post-Ferguson: versity Energy Prize for the 10th St., Anacortes. WashWhere Do We Go From city that best implements ington Park Manager Bob Here?” from 6 to 9 p.m.

Vaux and Anacortes Muse- creative strategies to save Wednesday, March 4, at the um educator Bret Lunsford energy and increase efficienBellingham City Council cy during the next two years. will discuss the creation of Chambers, 210 Lottie St. To encourage energy the Anacortes Parks Board Featuring a panel of profes- in 1914 and give an historic conservation toward that sionals with wide-ranging goal, the city will host a overview of Anacortes city experience in law enforcekickoff Energy Fair from 1 parks. Free. 360-293-1910, ment, the judicial process to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, ext. 21, or library.cityof and social justice advocacy, anacortes.org. at the Educational Services the symposium will look at District building, 1601 R issues raised by the police Ave., Anacortes. Workshops, shooting of Michael Brown MORE FUN seminars and demonstrain Ferguson, Missouri.

GAME NIGHT: The Upper tions will be held on home After the panel, breakout Skagit Library District will energy efficiency and other groups will discuss ways to energy topics. Vendors will hold a free Board Game engage citizens, the criminal Night for all ages from 5 answer questions and disjustice system and governplay products that use enerto 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at ment in conversations about 5b’s Bakery, 45597 Main St., gy efficiently. To track the race and how to address Concrete. 360-853-7939 or competition’s progress, visit

guep.org or GUenergyprize on Facebook. 360-299-1964.

PRODUCERS NIGHT: The Lincoln Theatre Foundation’s 12th annual Producers Night fundraiser will take place at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28, at the Swinomish Casino and Lodge, 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes.

This year’s film inspiration is “Casino Royale,” so attendees are invited to let their attire reflect their inner secret agent, devious villain, high roller or James Bond girl. Fancy, formal or semi-formal dress is encouraged. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wine and dinner, with music provided by the 9th Street Combo. Live and silent auctions will feature a wide range of items and experiences. Free blackjack lessons will be provided. Ages 21 and older only. Tickets: $65 through Feb. 28, then $75.

Producer table for eight guests: $500 through Feb. 28, then $580. 360-336-8955 or ilovethelincoln.com.

MUSEUM PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: The Children’s Museum of Skagit County Preschool Program will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the museum, 550 Cascade Mall Drive, Burlington. Prospective parents and students ages 3 to 5 are invited to attend. For information, call Cate at 360-7709746 or 360-757-8888.

Free admission.

CONSERVATION DINNER: Skagit Land Trust’s “Have Fun, Save Land” Auction & Dinner will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the St. Joseph Center, 215 N. 15th St., Mount Vernon.

Enjoy champagne, appetizers, buffet and dinner, and silent and live auctions featuring hundreds of items and experiences. $60. RSVP and auction preview at skagitlandtrust.org or 360428-7878.

EDISON TOONTOWN: The Edison School Booster Club will hold the 36th annual Edison School Carnival from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at Edison Elementary School, 5801 Main Ave., Bow/Edison. Enjoy more than 20 activity booths and games, a large inflatable slide, inflatable bouncy house, maze, large silent auction and raffle prizes. Tickets are 35 cents each or 15 for $5. Dinner menu includes pizza, baked potatoes, hot dogs, salad, cinnamon rolls and beverages. 360-757-3375.

SKAGIT FASHION WEEK: Enjoy a series of fashionrelated events March 10-14 around Mount Vernon and La Conner: n The Mount Vernon Downtown Association will kick off the week with “First & Fashion” from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, in downtown Mount COIN SHOW: The StanVernon. Boutique clothing wood Coin Club’s 54th and salon venues on South annual Coin Show will be First Street will pair up to held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. showcase their products and Saturday, March 7, at the services on live models in Stanwood Senior Center their establishments. Enjoy cafeteria, located downstairs the after-party from 7 to 8:30 at 7430 276th St. NW, p.m. at Front Street Gallery, Stanwood. Check out a 420 Myrtle St. Free. 360-336wide variety of U.S. and for- 3801 or mountvernondowneign coins, currency, bullion town.org. and collectibles, coin disn Skagit Friendship plays, free appraisals, door House will present the “En prize drawings, gold and Vogue” Runway Show and silver coin raffles and more. Benefit Auction, opening

with a reception at 6 p.m. followed by runway modeling and a live auction at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 12, at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon.

The event will feature repurposed garments created by local designers out of secondhand materials. Their transformations will be unveiled on the runway, then auctioned off to the highest bidder. General admission: $35. Premium reserved seating: $60, includes one beverage. Proceeds will benefit the Friendship House. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyre hall.org. n Anelia’s Fashion Night will feature music by the Bards of Keypoynt from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, March 13, at Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. Dress your best to compete for prizes.

Voting will follow the show.

Free. 360-399-1805 or aneliaskitchenandstage.com. n Meet the artists and shop for handcrafted wearable art at “MoNA Style” from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at the the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner.

The museum’s annual fashion marketplace will feature a wide range of unique fashion and accessories direct from the makers. Free admission. 360-466-4446 or monamuseum.org. n Enjoy informal modeling of artist-created fashions during lunch from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Saturday at participating restaurants around La Conner. n The Fashion Week After Party will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner. The party will feature select En Vogue designs, live music, a photo booth and more. $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Includes drinks and hors d’oeuvres. 360-4664446 or monamuseum.org.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 26, 2015 - E7

HOT TICKETS “RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S CAROUSEL”: Through March 1, 5th Avenue Theatre, 1308 Fifth Ave., Seattle. 888-584-4849 or 5thavenue.org.

GALACTIC: Feb. 27, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT: Feb. 28, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

JOSHUA RADIN: March 1, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

EARSHOT JAZZ SPRING SERIES: March 1-June 28, Seattle. 206-547-6763 or earshot. org.

CARIBOU: March 4, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO: March 5, 2015, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

KELLER WILLIAMS, THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS: March 6, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

IN FLAMES, ALL THAT REMAINS: March 7, Showbox Sodo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com “JACQUES BREL IS ALIVE AND WELL & LIVING IN PARIS”: March 7-May 17, 2015, The 5th Avenue Theatre, 1308 Fifth Ave., Seattle.

888-584-4849 or 5thavenue.org.

K. MICHELLE: March 8, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

KIDZ BOP LIVE: March 8, The Neptune Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com.

2:54: March 8, Barboza, Seattle. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

COAL CHAMBER: March 11, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

MxPx, FIVE IRON FRENZY: March 14, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

WIDESPREAD PANIC: March 15, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation. com.

TALIB KWELI & IMMORTAL TECHNIQUE: March 17, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

DANA FUCHS: March 17-18, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

LOS LOBOS: March 18, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincoln theatre.org.

TYCHO: March 18, Showbox SoDo, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM: March 20, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

ECHOSMITH: March 21, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

SHPONGLE: March 22, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BAD RELIGION: March 24, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.

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E8 Thursday, February 26, 2015

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area February 26-March 1 Thursday.26

FRIDAYSATURDAY.27-28

MUSIC

The Black Keys Quartet: Linda Jordan, vocals; Bill Pfeifer, keyboards; Michael McLaskey, vocals and guitar; and John Boyd, drums: 6:30 to 8 p.m., Mount Vernon City Library, 315 Snoqualmie St., Mount Vernon. Free. 360-336-6209.

CHRISTOPHER TITUS (SOLD OUT) Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, Bow. 877-275-2448.

THEATER

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”: Skagit Valley College Drama Department, 7:30 p.m., Philip Tarro Theatre, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5, free for SVC students. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (musical): 7 p.m., Whidbey Children’s Theater, 723 Camano Ave., Langley. Family night, all tickets $8. 360-221-8707 or whidbeychild renstheater.org.

“Other Desert Cities” (drama): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. $15-$22.

800-638-7631 or wicaonline.com.

Classical Concert: pianist Sheila Weidendorf and members of Island Consort, 2 to 4 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. $20 adults, $15 seniors, $12 students. 800-6387631 or wicaonline.org.

COMEDY

OPERA

Christopher Titus (sold out): 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-275-2448.

“Cinderella (La Cenerentola)”: Skagit Opera, 3 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $25-$59. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

OPERA

THEATER

“Cinderella (La Cenerentola)”: Skagit Opera, 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $25-$59.

Opening Night Gala Dinner: 6 p.m. $75.

360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”: Skagit Valley College Drama Department, 2 p.m., Philip Tarro Theatre, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5, free for SVC students. 360-4167727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

THEATER

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”: Skagit Valley College Drama Department, 7:30 p.m., Philip Tarro Theatre, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5, free for SVC students. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“Monty Python’s SPAMALOT” (musical): 2:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $20. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (musical): 2 p.m., Whidbey Children’s Theater, 723 Camano Ave., Langley. $8-$15. 360-2218707 or whidbeychildrenstheater.org.

“Oklahoma!” (musical): BurlingtonEdison High School Drama Dept., 7 p.m., B-EHS Performing Arts Center, 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. $5-$7, $22 family of four. 360-757-4074.

“Other Desert Cities” (drama): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. $15-$22.

800-638-7631 or wicaonline.com.

“Monty Python’s SPAMALOT” (musical): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $20. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

MUSIC

Friday.27

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (musical): 7 p.m., Whidbey Children’s Theater, 723 Camano Ave., Langley. $8-$15. 360-2218707 or whidbeychildrenstheater.org.

TUNING UP Playing at area venues February 26-March 5

Sunday.1

“Monty Python’s SPAMALOT” (musical): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $20. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“Monty Python’s SPAMALOT” (musical): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $20. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Thursday, February 26, 2015 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Saturday.28 COMEDY

Christopher Titus (sold out): 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow.

MUSIC

International Guitar Night: Brian Gore, Andrew York, Diego Figueiredo and Maneli Jamal: 8 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $23-$32, discount for Lincoln members. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

THEATER

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”: Skagit Valley College Drama Department, 7:30 p.m., Philip Tarro Theatre, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5, free for SVC students. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“Oklahoma!” (musical): BurlingtonEdison High School Drama Dept.: 2 and 7 p.m., B-EHS Performing Arts Center, 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. $5-$7, $22 family of four. 360-757-4074.

SATURDAY.28

THURSDAY.26

HOLMES-SHEA BAND 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover.

360-766-6266.

Steve and Kristi Nebel: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $7.

360-445-3000.

Mike Bucy: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-3991805.

SATURDAY.28 MOJO CANNON (formerly the Curtis Hammond Band) 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Room, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

Big Oil!, The Crawl, The Medix: 9:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $3. 360778-1067.

FRIDAY.27 Jimmy Wright: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-4226411.

MuseBird Cafe: Amanda Sue Winterhalter, Debbie Miller, Thedrifterluke: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

The Moonshine, Mudflat Walkers: 6:30 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Room, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $6. 360445-3000.

4More (high-energy top 40 dance): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-2752448.

Fence Fire: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-3991805.

“Hearing Protection Required”: SiLM, Cumulus, Enduro: 7 to 9 p.m., Anacortes Music Channel, 216 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. All ages.

Admission by donation. 360-293-9788.

Siri and Steve: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Real Don Music, Vox Mod, The Spider Ferns: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5.

360-778-1067.

Jimmy Wright: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-4226411.

Mojo Cannon (formerly the Curtis Hammond Band) (R&B): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Room, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

4More (high-energy top 40 dance): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-2752448.

B: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner.

Holmes-Shea Band: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

The Crow Quill Night Owls: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7.

Soul Funktion: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

Little Mountain Band: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. 360766-6330.

Jody Taylor: 6:30 p.m., Big Rock Roadhouse & Pizzeria, 14779 State Route 9, Mount Vernon. 360-4247872, bigrockcafe. com.

SATURDAY.28 International Guitar Night: Brian Gore, Andrew York, Diego Figueiredo and Maneli Jamal: 8 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $23$32, discount for Lincoln members.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

SUNDAY.1 No Tonic Press: Noon to 2 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360399-1805.

Danny O’Keefe: 6:30 p.m., Eagles Lodge Ballroom, 901 Seventh St., Anacortes. $20 advance, $25 day of show. 425-303-1848.

WEDNESDAY.4 New Iberians (Zydeco): 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Howlin Rain, The Blank Tapes, Low Hums: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7.

360-778-1067.

Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360445-4733.

Sunday Brunch Jazz, with John Savage and Duane Melcher (’40s & ’50s American jazz): 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington.

Savage Jazz: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-5881720.

THURSDAY.5 Open Mic: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. Signups start at 6:30 p.m. 360-4453000.

Nick Vigarino: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360399-1805.

Dark Time Sunshine, Goldini Bagwell, Rafael Vigilantics, Simple Steven: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7-$8. 360-7781067.

Darla Bradshaw Lobb & Walt Burkett: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-3543600.

E8 Thursday, February 26, 2015

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area February 26-March 1 Thursday.26

FRIDAYSATURDAY.27-28

MUSIC

The Black Keys Quartet: Linda Jordan, vocals; Bill Pfeifer, keyboards; Michael McLaskey, vocals and guitar; and John Boyd, drums: 6:30 to 8 p.m., Mount Vernon City Library, 315 Snoqualmie St., Mount Vernon. Free. 360-336-6209.

CHRISTOPHER TITUS (SOLD OUT) Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, Bow. 877-275-2448.

THEATER

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”: Skagit Valley College Drama Department, 7:30 p.m., Philip Tarro Theatre, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5, free for SVC students. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (musical): 7 p.m., Whidbey Children’s Theater, 723 Camano Ave., Langley. Family night, all tickets $8. 360-221-8707 or whidbeychild renstheater.org.

“Other Desert Cities” (drama): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. $15-$22.

800-638-7631 or wicaonline.com.

Classical Concert: pianist Sheila Weidendorf and members of Island Consort, 2 to 4 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. $20 adults, $15 seniors, $12 students. 800-6387631 or wicaonline.org.

COMEDY

OPERA

Christopher Titus (sold out): 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-275-2448.

“Cinderella (La Cenerentola)”: Skagit Opera, 3 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $25-$59. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

OPERA

THEATER

“Cinderella (La Cenerentola)”: Skagit Opera, 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $25-$59.

Opening Night Gala Dinner: 6 p.m. $75.

360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”: Skagit Valley College Drama Department, 2 p.m., Philip Tarro Theatre, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5, free for SVC students. 360-4167727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

THEATER

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”: Skagit Valley College Drama Department, 7:30 p.m., Philip Tarro Theatre, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5, free for SVC students. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“Monty Python’s SPAMALOT” (musical): 2:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $20. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (musical): 2 p.m., Whidbey Children’s Theater, 723 Camano Ave., Langley. $8-$15. 360-2218707 or whidbeychildrenstheater.org.

“Oklahoma!” (musical): BurlingtonEdison High School Drama Dept., 7 p.m., B-EHS Performing Arts Center, 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. $5-$7, $22 family of four. 360-757-4074.

“Other Desert Cities” (drama): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. $15-$22.

800-638-7631 or wicaonline.com.

“Monty Python’s SPAMALOT” (musical): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $20. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

MUSIC

Friday.27

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (musical): 7 p.m., Whidbey Children’s Theater, 723 Camano Ave., Langley. $8-$15. 360-2218707 or whidbeychildrenstheater.org.

TUNING UP Playing at area venues February 26-March 5

Sunday.1

“Monty Python’s SPAMALOT” (musical): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $20. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“Monty Python’s SPAMALOT” (musical): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $20. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Thursday, February 26, 2015 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Saturday.28 COMEDY

Christopher Titus (sold out): 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow.

MUSIC

International Guitar Night: Brian Gore, Andrew York, Diego Figueiredo and Maneli Jamal: 8 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $23-$32, discount for Lincoln members. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

THEATER

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”: Skagit Valley College Drama Department, 7:30 p.m., Philip Tarro Theatre, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5, free for SVC students. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“Oklahoma!” (musical): BurlingtonEdison High School Drama Dept.: 2 and 7 p.m., B-EHS Performing Arts Center, 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. $5-$7, $22 family of four. 360-757-4074.

SATURDAY.28

THURSDAY.26

HOLMES-SHEA BAND 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover.

360-766-6266.

Steve and Kristi Nebel: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $7.

360-445-3000.

Mike Bucy: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-3991805.

SATURDAY.28 MOJO CANNON (formerly the Curtis Hammond Band) 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Room, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

Big Oil!, The Crawl, The Medix: 9:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $3. 360778-1067.

FRIDAY.27 Jimmy Wright: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-4226411.

MuseBird Cafe: Amanda Sue Winterhalter, Debbie Miller, Thedrifterluke: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

The Moonshine, Mudflat Walkers: 6:30 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Room, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $6. 360445-3000.

4More (high-energy top 40 dance): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-2752448.

Fence Fire: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-3991805.

“Hearing Protection Required”: SiLM, Cumulus, Enduro: 7 to 9 p.m., Anacortes Music Channel, 216 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. All ages.

Admission by donation. 360-293-9788.

Siri and Steve: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Real Don Music, Vox Mod, The Spider Ferns: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5.

360-778-1067.

Jimmy Wright: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-4226411.

Mojo Cannon (formerly the Curtis Hammond Band) (R&B): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Room, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

4More (high-energy top 40 dance): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-2752448.

B: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner.

Holmes-Shea Band: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

The Crow Quill Night Owls: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7.

Soul Funktion: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

Little Mountain Band: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. 360766-6330.

Jody Taylor: 6:30 p.m., Big Rock Roadhouse & Pizzeria, 14779 State Route 9, Mount Vernon. 360-4247872, bigrockcafe. com.

SATURDAY.28 International Guitar Night: Brian Gore, Andrew York, Diego Figueiredo and Maneli Jamal: 8 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $23$32, discount for Lincoln members.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

SUNDAY.1 No Tonic Press: Noon to 2 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360399-1805.

Danny O’Keefe: 6:30 p.m., Eagles Lodge Ballroom, 901 Seventh St., Anacortes. $20 advance, $25 day of show. 425-303-1848.

WEDNESDAY.4 New Iberians (Zydeco): 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Howlin Rain, The Blank Tapes, Low Hums: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7.

360-778-1067.

Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360445-4733.

Sunday Brunch Jazz, with John Savage and Duane Melcher (’40s & ’50s American jazz): 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington.

Savage Jazz: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-5881720.

THURSDAY.5 Open Mic: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. Signups start at 6:30 p.m. 360-4453000.

Nick Vigarino: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360399-1805.

Dark Time Sunshine, Goldini Bagwell, Rafael Vigilantics, Simple Steven: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7-$8. 360-7781067.

Darla Bradshaw Lobb & Walt Burkett: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-3543600.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E10 - Thursday, February 26, 2015

50% OFF

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Skagit DEALS

L O C A L

ONLY FEB 16-28 19 great deals to choose from $20 for $10 to Lorenzo’s Mexican restaurant $20 for $10 to Gentleman Gene’s $20 for $10 to LaConner Seafood & Prime Rib $20 for $10 to Farmhouse Restaurant $20 for $10 to Carino’s Italian Restaurant $20 for $10 to Pizza Factory (Anacortes) $20 for $10 to The Rockfish Grill $10 for $5 to Big Scoop $10 for $5 to Shambala Bakery & Bistro $10 for $5 to State Street Deli $10 for $5 to Billy’s Café $10 for $5 to The North End Bistro $10 for $5 to Big Rock Café & Grocery $10 for $5 to The Woolley Market $10 for $5 to The Lunch Box $10 for $5 to Bill’s Diner $10 for $5 to North Cove Coffee $10 Lunch Buffet for $6 to Taste of India Your Choice of 2 Great Deals to Bob’s Chowder Bar

ONLY at GOSKAGIT.COM/DEALS This ad does not constitute a coupon. Must pre-purchase at goskagit.com/deals.

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “Big Hero 6”: Young must endure a ferocious instructor (J.K. Simgenius uses a robot to Upcoming mons). solve a mystery in this movie releases “Beyond the Lights”: animated tale. Never has Following is a partial Superstar is on edge East met West in such a schedule of coming movbecause of constantly visually stunning way as ies on DVD. Release being in the spotlight. in this animated film. dates are subject to “Sons of Anarchy: Directors Don Hall change: Season 7”: Final season and Chris Williams have MARCH 3 of the cable series. managed to find a perGodzilla “The Whale”: Look fect balance of story and Foxcatcher at the real story that visuals. The characters — Life Partners inspired “Moby Dick.” from the spunky Honey Ask Me Anything “Lilies”: Depicts bleak Lemon (Genesis Rodrirealities of life in 1920s MARCH 6 guez ) to the enthusiastic The Hunger Games: Britain.

Fred (T.J. Miller ) — mix Mockingjay Part 1 “Outside Bet”: Group well together and come of out-of-work friends across as separate parts MARCH 10 pool their savings to buy of one persona.

Night at the Museum 3: a racehorse.

Secret of the Tomb From the blending “Code Black”: ExamiListen Up Philip of the architecture of Happy Valley nation of health care as Tokyo and San Francisco Pioneer seen through the eyes of (to create San Fransoyoung doctors. n Tribune News Service kyo) to the collision of “Watchers of the traditional animation Sky”: Examines the cycle with anime, the film is of violence and the world’s response. “manga-nificent.”

“The Shift”: Takes place during one “Sofia the First: The Curse of Prin12-hour night shift in an emergency cess Ivy”: Amber discovers Sofia’s room. amulet is magical and takes it without “The Game”: The Brits prepare for a permission, inadvertently summoning deadly Soviet plot. an evil princess, Ivy, who’s determined “American Masters: August Wilto take over Enchancia . son: The Ground on Which I Stand”: This is a fun tale that includes some Includes interviews and dramatic readstrong tunes. The adventure features a ings. special appearance by Rapunzel, voiced “Eat Drink Man Woman”: The 1994

by Mandy Moore, who reprises her role film makes its Blu-ray debut. from Disney’s “Tangled.” John Michael “Mountain Men: Season 3”: History Higgins voices the self-appointed leader Channel series about the struggle for of an all-dragon a cappella group, and survival in the mountains.

Oliver Platt speaks for Enchancia’s “Wild Orchid”: Mickey Rourke stars oldest-living dragon, Everburn. in the 1989 drama.

“Horrible Bosses 2”: The three guys “Zoey to the Max”: Foster child loses hatch a new illegal plan after their new her new family’s show dog. business is threatened. n Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee “Whiplash”: Young jazz drummer

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 26, 2015 - E11

MUSIC REVIEWS JOSE GONZALEZ, “Vestiges & Claws” — The latest album from SwedishArgentine Jose Gonzalez was partly produced by himself in his kitchen and the intimacy is felt throughout “Vestiges & Claws.”

Across 10 arresting tracks, Gonzalez plays his acoustic guitar with a graceful tranquility considering “what it’s all about” in his aching tenor.

His voice is at once fervid and fragile, and like Arthur Russell or Yo La Tengo’s Ira Kaplan, he often lightens his tone for emphasis. On lucid closer “Open Book,” he stretches toward falsetto with the words, “I have so much left to give,” after whistling nonchalantly between the verses. On “Let It Carry You,” Gonzalez sings about loosening “built-up tensions” over a rolling bass line and hand percussion.

A number of these songs have a pastoral air about them. Lead track “With the Ink of a Ghost” evokes the wistful, floral feel of Simon & Garfunkel. On “The Forest,” he looks through “landscapes blurred by rain” and asks: “Why didn’t I see the forest on fire behind the trees?”

Subtle detours are pleasant surprises. The sandswept “Stories We Build, Stories We Tell” sounds informed by the Tuareg band Tinariwen and the outskirts of the Saharan guitar scene. Whereas “Every Age” invokes the spirit of Woody Guthrie with its intent to “build a place where we all can belong.”

Gonzalez’s politics are grounded in humanism. His compassion on this pointedly titled album, his first since 2007, is palpable. His message seems to ultimately be about fighting through, growth and remnants of earlier selves that remain. n Jake O’Connell, Associated Press

JEFF BRIDGES, “Sleeping Tapes” — Among the dippier Super Bowl XLIX ads was the one for Squarespace, in which Oscarwinning thespian and allaround Dude Jeff Bridges dozily hummed, mumbled abstract poetry, and played a recorder while an eerie ambient breeze blew cold behind his rumbling voice.

That breeze was a snippet from “Sleeping Tapes” — an album designed for listeners to get good night’s rest — conceived by Bridges, bugged-out soundtrack composer Keefus Ciancia (“True Detective”) and graphic artist/fiction writer Lou Beach.

It is restful, but in reality, “Sleeping Tapes” also has a restless aspect, something like an unblinking Alan Watts with a snifter of cognac and a handful of Xanax. Tapes inventively and surrealistically tackles the New Age. Through a swirling ambient din of dissonant clucks, distant pianos and tinging bells (it’s calming, trust me), Bridge’s low, gravely Duderino voice growls, chants mantras, tells nonsensical stories about an Ikea experience or a canyon walk, and reminds the listener that “if you want, we could pretend to be crows.”

Who could sleep to this? n A.D. Amorosi, The Philadelphia Inquirer

STEVE EARLE AND THE DUKES, “Terraplane” — Steve Earle came up as a country rebel, but the Texas songwriter has always cited Lone Star State songsters such as Mance Lipscomb and Lightnin’ Hopkins as formative influences. And as a man who battled drug addiction and has seven failed marriages under his belt (including his latest, to dulcet-voiced singer Allison Moorer), he surely knows a thing or two about the blues.

But besides having his authenticity bona fides in order, Earle also has all the requisite musical moves.

His suitably raspy, worldweathered voice is deftly employed on everything from swaggering Chicago blues to finger-picked Mississippi Delta stylings. The 11 original songs on “Terraplane,” whose title nods to Robert Johnson, are loaded with familiar tropes. “The day I was born the moon crossed the sun,” he sings in “King of the Blues” — “Mama cried, ‘Sweet Jesus, what have I done?’ ” But the well-worn idioms make light of personal woes as well as wallow in them, and Earle sings his blues with a refreshingly light touch and a lack of self-seriousness, while also delivering laments like “Better Off Alone” and “Ain’t Nobody’s Daddy Now” that deliver consider-

able emotional punch. All that, plus a terrific band that includes guitarist Will Rigby and fiddle player Eleanor Whitmore, with whom he duets on the gently playful “Baby’s Just as Mean as Me,” revs “Terraplane” up into a genre exercise of the highest order.

tally, most accessible) fulllength, but it’s just shy of being a masterpiece, as his constant need to mask his deeper thoughts and intentions prevents the album from emitting the warmth we know its capable of.

pentry of these songs lets the dust fly, lets the grain show, but the songs are all the purer, all the sweeter, for their scuffs. n Matthew Fiander, pop matters.com

GANG OF FOUR, “What n Evan Sawdey, popmatters.

Happens Next” — “What com

n Dan DeLuca, The Philadelphia Inquirer

STEVE GUNN & BLACK TWIG PICKERS, “Seasonal Hire” — “Seasonal Hire” DAN DEACON, “Gliss Riffer” — Deacon has built finds Gunn and the Black Twig Pickers toeing that upon the lessons learned line between the time honfrom “America” and his excellent 2009 set “Bromst” ored and the avant-garde.

The five tracks here — four to create pop music that originals and a traditional is far removed from the viral novelties that defined tune — show a deep connection between the playhim in the past, but he is ers and invite the listener still remarkably hesitant into their inherent intimacy. to show us his heart, only offering glimpses of insight Like all the Black Twig while still doing all the can Pickers recordings, there is no amplification here. All to keep the party going the tracks are recorded live at the right BPM. “Gliss in studio, and there are no Riffer” is by far his most successful (and, incidenoverdubs. The rough car-

Happens Next,” the title of Gang of Four’s latest album, is a statement instead of a question. It’s also a judgment and so a major change of style for a band that has long avoided making bald generalizations or launching agitprop musical cocktails.

What the album does not do, sadly, is ever rise to the level of fun that the best of the Gang’s earliest work did. It’s an even, solid album with a few standout tracks, but there’s also no moment where listening becomes compulsive. n Austin Price, popmatters. com

We have a hunch . . . there’s now

O La Ceneretola Cinderella

Skagit Opera February 27 March 1, 6 & 8

MVHS Bands Fesitval Concert March 10 The Paperboys March 13 360.416.7727

mcintyrehall.org

BRUNCH! o

Rotating Specials Include:

Smoked Salmon Benedict Tarheel Sausage Gravy & Biscuit Skillet Fried Chicken & Waffles Pulled Pork Hash Veggie Skillet Granola & Fruit Parfait O

All from $7-$11!

o

the Woolley Market is a full-service community grocer, deli and cafe offering regional foods in support of local agriculture.

829 Metcalf Steet, Sedro Woolley www.woolleymarket.com

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E12 - Thursday, February 26, 2015

GET INVOLVED ART

known as the Anacortes Music Channel (formerly BOOKMARK CONTEST: Anchor Art Space), at 216 In celebration of National Commercial Ave., AnaLibrary Week in April, the cortes. Classes and dropMount Vernon City Library in evening sessions will will hold its 14th annual begin Monday, March 2, Create a Bookmark Conwith classes ranging from test. Kids in grades K-5 are recording engineering and invited to submit original songwriting to kids yoga, bookmark designs based art, writing and more. For on the 2015 Summer Read- information, contact Nick ing Program theme “Every at 360-293-9788.

Hero Has a Story.” Entries will be accepted through DANCE 5 p.m. Monday, March 23, COMMUNITY DANCERS: and winners will be choContemporary Dance Elesen from four categories: ments with Karen Gosetti: Grades K-1, 2-3, 4-5 and Librarian’s Choice/Honor- ages 13 and older, 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Mondays, March able Mention. Each win9-30, Burlington Parks and ner will receive a $20 gift Recreation Center, 900 E. certificate from Easton’s Books. Pick up entry forms Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. Explore contempobeginning Monday, March rary dance elements and 2, at the library, 315 Snoqualmie St., Mount Vernon, have fun moving in new ways, with a focus on body or visit mountvernonwa. shapes, moving in the dance gov/library. space and varied timing.

CALL FOR ARTISTS: The $50. Some scholarships Anacortes Arts Festival and available. Preregister by Anacortes Parks & Recre- March 2. 360-755-9649 or ation invite artists to submit burlingtonwa.gov/ recreation. proposals for a piece of public artwork to be placed FOLK DANCING: Skagitalong the Tommy Thompson Parkway in Anacortes. Anacortes Folk Dancers meet at 7 p.m. most TuesThe annual Art Dash is days at Bayview Civic Hall, funding this commission, 12615 C St., Bay View. and designs should relate Learn to folkdance to a to running. Submissions may be representational or variety of international abstract, and made of mate- music. Instruction begins at rials that will withstand an 7 p.m. followed by review and request dances until outdoor marine environ9:30. The first session is ment. The total budget is free, $3 thereafter. All $12,000, including labor are welcome. No partners and materials. Entry fee: $10. Entry deadline: Feb. 27. needed. For information, contact Gary or Ginny at The selected artist will be announced March 19. Com- 360-766-6866. plete application guidelines MOVING MEDITATIONS: are available at anacortes The Dances of Universal artsfestival.com.

Peace will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. the first Sunday NEW ARTS/VENUE/ each month, beginning CLASSROOM: Anacortes March 1, at the Center for musicians and artists have Spiritual Living, 1508 N. banded together to host 18th St., Mount Vernon. events, classes, workshops and seminars in a new per- Dances include live music formance/classroom space and singing with a focus on

a particular sacred phrase, inspired by spiritual traditions from around the world, including Christian, Jewish, Native American, Hindu, Buddhist and others.

No experience necessary.

Donation requested, but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 360-629-9190.

the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland. St. Free; donations accepted.

360-630-9494.

SKAGIT VALLEY MUSIC CLUB: The club welcomes performers (intermediate and above), listeners and guests to join the fun at 1:45 p.m. today, Feb. 26, at Vasa CLOG DANCING FOR Hall, 1805 Cleveland St., BEGINNERS: Free lesson Mount Vernon. Come and from 10 to 11 a.m., followed sing, play the club’s piano by regular clog dancing or organ, play your own from 11 a.m. to noon Thurs- instrument or just enjoy a days, at the Mount Vernon variety of music — ’20s to Senior Center, 1401 Cleve- ’70s classical, popular, westland St., Mount Vernon. ern and gospel. Free. For No fee, no partner needed. information, call Elaine at First three lessons are free. 360-428-4228.

Wear comfortable shoes.

For information, call Rosie SECOND FRIDAY DRUM at 360-424-4608.

CIRCLE: 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 12, Unity Church, 704 W. Division St., Mount MUSIC Vernon. Shake off the BARBERSHOP HARenergy of the week through MONY: Attend a free, drumming, songs, chants. no-commitment rehearsal of the An-O-Chords. Four- Freewill donation. heatpart barbershop experience miser@inbox.com. not necessary, no auditions SHELTER BAY CHORUS: required. Learn by rote, you Practices are held from 2:45 don’t have to read music. to 4:45 p.m. every Thursday Ages 12 and up. Drop in at the Shelter Bay Clubany Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Northwest Educational house in La Conner. New members welcome. No Service Building, 1601 R need to be a Shelter Bay Ave., Anacortes. Rides resident. 360-466-3805. available. Bob Lundquist, 360-941-5733 or svenbob@ LOVE TO SING? Join the cheerful.com. women of Harmony NorthCALL FOR MUSICIANS: west Chorus from 6:30 to 9 p.m. every Monday at the 5b’s Bakery, 45597 Main Mount Vernon Senior CenSt., Concrete, is looking ter, 1401 Cleveland Ave. for musicians to perform Seeking women who like to easy-listening acoustic music from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. sing a cappella music. All skill levels welcome. during Sunday Brunch. In exchange, musicians will ANACORTES OPEN MIC: receive audience contribu9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Brown tions and a meal. 360-853Lantern Ale House, 412 8700 or info@5bsbakery.

Commercial Ave., Anacom. cortes. 360-293-2544.

TIME FOR FIDDLERS: OPEN MIC: Jam night, The Washington Old Time 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. ThursFiddlers play acoustic olddays, Conway Pub & Eattime music at 6:30 p.m. ery, 18611 Main St., Conthe second and fourth Fridays of each month at way. 360-445-4733

RECREATION

information or to register, contact Walt at 360-293TRAIL BUILDERS: Mount 3586.

Vernon Trail Builders seeks volunteers to help with trail DASH & SPLASH: Forbuilding and maintenance merly known as the Anaat Little Mountain Park in cortes Polar Plunge for Mount Vernon. Planned Special Olympics, the event projects include a new trail will take place Saturday, and bicycle skills park. Fam- March 7, at Seafarers Park, ily-friendly work sessions Anacortes. New this year is are held from 10 a.m. to the AJ-5K Fun Run/Walk, 4:30 p.m. Saturdays, rain or held in memory of Skagit shine. Lunch, snacks, tools County Deputy Anne Jackand training are provided. son, who was killed in the For information, call Mount line of duty in 2008. RegisVernon Parks and Recretration will begin at 9 a.m., ation at 360-336-6215 or with the Fun Run/Walk at visit mountvernontrailbuild- 11:15 a.m. ers.com. Next up: Feb. 28; An awards ceremony March 14, 28; April 11, 25. and costume contest will begin at noon, followed SALMON HABITAT RES- by the group plunge. Run TORATION: Join Skagit registration: $25. Plunge Fisheries Enhancement registration: Raise $50 or Group to help restore more for Special Olympics. native riparian plants in the Combined registration: $65.

Skagit and Samish waterParticipants will receive sheds. These plants provide commemorative T-shirts. shade and cover for salmon Proceeds will benefit the and leaf litter for aquatic Skagit Animals in Need insects, which in turn proShelter and Special Olymvide food for salmon. These pics Washington. Register riparian zones also improve at anacortesplunge2015. water quality by controlkintera.org or pick up a ling erosion and filtering form at the Anacortes pollutants. All planting Police Department, Anaevents take place from 10 cortes Sebo’s, Johnny Picasa.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. so’s or request one by email For information or to sign to skagitdashandsplash@ up: 360-336-0172 or sfeg@ yahoo.com. skagitfisheries.org.

Next up: Feb. 28 and FULL MOON SHOWSHOE March 28, potting party at ADVENTURE: Venture into SFEG nursery, 21109 Kelle- a winter wonderland by the her Road. light of the moon from 3 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, March BOATING SKILLS & SEA- 7, leaving from and returnMANSHIP: United States ing to Hillcrest Park, 1717 Coast Guard Auxiliary, S. 13th St., Mount Vernon.

Flotilla 17, Anacortes, will Travel to the Mt. Baker Ski offer its boating skills and Area and explore the peace seamanship class beginning and tranquility by the light Tuesday, March 3, at the of a full moon. On the way Anacortes Senior Cenhome, enjoy a no-host dinter, 1701 22nd St. Classes ner. Snowshoes, poles and will meet from 7 to 9 p.m. headlamps provided. Ages Tuesdays and Thursdays 16 and older (younger than for March and the first of 18 with adult supervision).

April. The class will cover $68-$70. Limited enrollthe Washington state boat- ment. Register by March 2. ers’ card and certificates 360-336-6215 or mount will be issued. $40. For vernonwa.gov/parks.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 26, 2015 - E13

AT THE LINCOLN 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360-336-8955 www.lincolntheatre.org

‘Wild’

5:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27 5:30 p.m. Sunday-Tuesday, March 1-3

After years of reckless behavior, a heroin addiction and the destruction of her marriage, Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) makes a rash decision.

Haunted by memories of her mother Bobbi (Laura Dern) and with absolutely no experience, she sets out to hike more than a thousand miles on the Pacific Crest Trail on her own.

Rated R. $10 general; $9 seniors, students and active military; $8 members; $7 children 12 and under.

Sunday bargain prices: $8 general, $6 members, $5 children 12 and under.

‘American Bear: An Adventure in the Kindness of Strangers’ 8:15 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27

Co-directors Sarah Sellman and her husband Greg Grano set out to critically explore American culture, compassion and fear by relying on the kindness of strangers for a home each night, covering 30 states in 60 days. Meet the couple for a question-and-answer time after the screening. $10 general; $9 seniors, students and active military; $8 members; $7 children 12 and under.

The Met Live in HD – ‘Iolantia/Bluebeard’s Castle’ 1 p.m. Sunday, March 1

Soprano Anna Netrebko takes on another Tchaikovsky heroine in the first opera of this double bill, consisting of an enchanting fairy tale (“Iolanta”) followed by an erotic psychological thriller (“Duke Bluebeard’s Castle”).

LIVE MUSIC FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHTS THURSDAY NIGHT ALL YOU CAN EAT PRAWNS 4Pm TO CLOSE

614 S. First, La Conner

Early Dinners 4 Courses $20

CATERING SERvICES AvAILAbLE YEAR ROUND

FRIDAY NIGHT Seafood and Pasta Specials SATURDAY NIGHT Prime Rib

Every Day 3-6pm Reservations: 466-4014

360-422-6411

SIRI and STEVE Friday, 2/27 8 PM

ROCKFISH GRILL Local Food, Local Beer, Made Here 320 Commercial Ave 360.588.1720

www.anacortesrockfish.com

50% OFF

LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND MORE

ONLY AT GOSKAGIT.COM/DEALS

360.466.4411

LaConner Whitney Rd. & Hwy. 20

BRUNCH MENU & BLOODY MARY BAR EVERY SAT & SUN

SPECIALS

FRIDAY SEAFOOD SATURDAY PRIME RIB

Craft Beer • PNW Wines House-Infused Vodkas

THURSDAY NIGHTS:

Weekend Brunch & Bloody Mary Bar!

ALL YOU CAN EAT PRAWNS RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Sat. & Sun. 11am-2pm Live music Fri & sat

Fri 2/27 & Sat 2/28 Jimmy Wright

CheCk LiStingS

422-6411

Kitchen open until last call 513 S 1st Street, La Conner 360.399.1805

3/4”

Local Foods or International Cuisine

BURGER/FRIES $5.99 7” MON-FRI 11:30-4PM

A menu of Polish family recipes & eclectic fair made in-house from fresh, local ingredients.

Open 11am-11pm

1/2”

FULL SERVICE CATERING

Macadamia Nut Halibut is back!

Only minutes from Mount Vernon!

aneliaskitchenandstage.com

Follow the Fish

Call for information about our banquet rooms

Not Valid with Coupons or other Specials Full menu details at: laconnerseafood.com

18247 State Route 9 Mount Vernon

15TH ANNIVERSARY

MEET IN THE MIDDLE!!

18247 State Route 9 Mount Vernon

1”

KARAOKE Fri/Sat • Blues sun Have your parties Here!!

1/2 Pound siMPly thE

stEak bEst Pan friEd

burgErs

Innovative Food • Craft Cocktails 24 Draft Handles • Live Music

oystErs

Conway Pub & EatEry breakfast I-5 Exit 221 9 aM 360-445-4733

1 1/4”

Soul Function Saturday Feb. 28 @ 7:30pm

314 Commercial • 360-755-3956

1 1/2”

MAJESTIC EASTER BRUNCH

April 5, 10am-3pm

Rockfish Grill : http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rockfish-Grill-Anacortes-Brewery/164550669515 $32 per Adult • $16 Kids 6-16

Kids under 6 are complimentary

Come celebrate the beginning of Spring. Bring the children for our annual Majestic Easter Egg Hunt at Noon!

Reservations recommended!

Prices before gratuity & taxes.

419 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360-299-1400 • majesticinnandspa.com

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E14 - Thursday, February 26, 2015

MOVIES NEW THIS WEEK The trouble Margot with movies about Robbie stars “The Big Con” is in “Focus.” that they condition Warner Bros. us to not believe via TNS anything we see up on screen — relationships, who is conning whom, deaths, etc.

“Focus” one-ups that by pushing a romance to the fore, one that is supposed to be fun, sexy and cute. But when we don’t buy the veteran con man (Will Smith) in love with the hot young acolyte (Margot Robbie), well, what is there to cling to? They generate about as much heat as John Travolta and Idina Menzel managed on Sunday night’s Oscars.

Chemistry, or the lack of it, burns a big hole in this supposedly romantic, unconvincingly tense, feebly comical caper from the guys who gave us “I Love You, Phillip Morris,” Glenn Ficarra and John Requa. It’s got an “Ocean’s 11” sheen without the requisite snap, a “Grifters” set-up without an edge or sexual spark.

Smith is Nicky, a third-generation hustler who runs a team of pickpockets, grifters and thieves who show up at major sporting events and ruin a lot of peoples’ vacations. When Jess (Robbie) throws herself in his path in a swank restaurant where she’s just lifted the wallet off a mark, Nicky sizes her up, shoots her down and inspires her plea.

“Teach me.”

So the script has Nicky unleash every Big Con cliche about a “touch,” what to do with a “poke,” what the “Toledo Panic Button” is, etc.

“Die with the lie,” he preaches. “You never drop the con. You never break.”

Jess gets in on his “Big Game” operation at the Super Dome, which provides the film’s first actual surprise. But how can this love connection work out when nobody can ever trust anybody else?

Robbie is pretty — no, gorgeous, stunning, physical perfection. And a fairly bland actress. Smith should have developed some romantic comedy chops by now, and he’s OK with a one-liner. But seriously, these two in the clinches? It’s like Neil Patrick Harris is in the room — dying, all over again.

“Focus” is stolen by two supporting players, the only actors to give it the colorful characters it needs for that breath of life. B.D. Wong is an amusingly bent, superrich gambler who gets into a competition with Nicky.

And Adrian Martinez chews it up as the sarcastic, crude-talking walking sight gag, Farhad — the team’s tech whiz.

But a weak villain, a couple of eye-rollingly unlikely cons and dead stretches that make 104 minutes play like 145 and you’ve got “Focus,” the last dog of February, where comatose con job movies are released to the sounds of silence.

1:44. Rating: R, for language, some sexual content and brief violence. H1⁄2 n Roger Moore, Tribune News Service

MINI-REVIEWS Compiled from news services.

Ratings are one to four stars.

“American Sniper” — Clint Eastwood directs a powerful, intense portrayal of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, hardly the blueprint candidate to become the most prolific sniper in American military history. And yet that’s what happened. In maybe the best performance of his career, Bradley Cooper infuses Chris with humanity and dignity.

And vulnerability. War drama, R, 132 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Big Eyes” — As he did with “Ed Wood,” director Tim Burton takes a kitschy slice of 20th-century pop culture -the woman who painted children with huge eyes and the husband who took credit for them — and turns it into a special film. This is the kind of movie that has you smiling nearly all the way throughout at the sheer inspired madness of it all. Biography, 1 PG-13, 105 minutes. HHH ⁄2 “Big Hero 6” — Disney’s animated story about a teenager befriending a healthcare robot is a big, gorgeous adventure with wonderful voice performances, some dark undertones that give the story more depth, an uplifting message and more than a few laugh-out-loud moments.

Animation action comedy, PG, 108 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Black or White” — One of the most complex characters Kevin Costner has played is a hard drinker fighting for custody of his granddaughter in this uneven but provocative movie that dares to raise issues and address situations that still make a lot of people uncomfortable.

Drama, PG-13, 121 minutes.

HHH “Fifty Shades of Grey” — Director Sam Taylor-Johnson had an impossible mission on her hands to meld the tawdry with the conventional.

It’s like trying to mash up the sensibilities of Lars von Trier with Nancy Meyers to create an end product that will be appealing on a mass scale. In trying to please everyone, though, “Fifty Shades of Grey” has stripped away the fun and settled on palatable.

Drama, R, 125 minutes. H1⁄2

AT AREA THEATERS ANACORTES CINEMAS Feb. 27-March 5 Focus (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:30, 4:10, 6:45, 9:00; Sunday-Thursday: 1:30, 4:10, 6:45 McFarland, USA (PG): Friday-Saturday: 1:15, 3:55, 6:35, 9:10; Sunday-Thursday: 1:15, 3:55, 6:35 Still Alice (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 1:45, 4:20, 6:55, 9:20; Sunday-Thursday: 1:45, 4:20, 6:55 360-293-6620 BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Oak Harbor Feb. 27-March 1 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) and Black and White (PG-13).

First movie starts at 6 p.m.

360-675-5667

OAK HARBOR CINEMAS Feb. 27-March 5 Focus (R): Friday: 1:20, 3:45, 6:40, 8:50; Saturday: 10:40, 1:20, 3:45, 6:40, 8:50; Sunday: 10:40, 1:20, 3:45, 6:40; Monday-Thursday: 1:20, 3:45, 6:40 McFarland, USA (PG): Friday: 1:10, 3:50, 6:30, 9:10; Saturday: 10:30, 1:10, 3:50, 6:30, 9:10; Sunday: 10:30, 1:10, 3:50, 6:30; Monday-Thursday: 1:10, 3:50, 6:30 Fifty Shades of Grey (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:00, 8:55; Sunday-Thursday: 1:00 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG): Friday: 3:40, 6:50; SaturdaySunday: 10:50, 3:40, 6:50; Monday-Thursday: 3:40, 6:50 360-279-2226

STANWOOD CINEMAS Feb. 27-March 5 Focus (R): 1:40, 3:55, 6:50, 9:05 The DUFF (PG-13): 1:30, 3:45, 6:45, CONCRETE THEATRE 9:00 Feb. 27-March 1 McFarland, USA (PG): 1:00, 3:40, 6:40, The Theory of Everything (PG-13): 9:20 Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: 5 and 7:30 Fifty Shades of Grey (R): 1:20, 8:40 p.m.; Sunday: 4 and 6:30 p.m.

Kingsman: The Secret Service (R): 1:10, 360-941-0403 3:50, 6:30, 9:10 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of CASCADE MALL THEATRES Water (PG): 4:00, 6:35 Burlington 360-629-0514 For listings: 888-AMC-4FUN (888-262-4386).

“Hot Tub Time Machine 2” — Given the considerable comedic talents of Rob Corddry, Craig Robinson, Adam Scott et al, and the ragged, what-the-hell charms of the original “Hot Tub Time Machine,” it’s surprising how rotten this movie is from start to finish. Comedy, R, 93 minutes. H “Jupiter Ascending” — A half-man, half-wolf interplanetary hunter (Channing Tatum) rescues a Chicago house cleaner (Mila Kunis) who unwittingly holds mankind’s fate in her hands. This epic, ridiculous and confounding space opera is so bad I almost want you to see it.

Almost. Sci-fi action, PG-13, 127 minutes. Zero stars.

“Into the Woods” — Adapted from the sensational musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt head an A-list cast. “Into the Woods” rumbles on for too long and has some dry patches here and there, but just when we’re growing fidgety, we get another rousing musical number or another dark plot twist, and we’re back in business. Musical fantasy, PG, 124 minutes. HHH

“Kingsman: The Secret Service” — In a very violent and very silly movie, Colin Firth gives a disciplined, serious performance as a spy from a super-secret British agency. “Kingsman,” a relentless, hardcore spoof of the old-school James Bond movies, is the craziest movie I’ve seen in a long time. Spy adventure, R, 129 minutes.

HHH1⁄2 “Seventh Son” — The last of a noble order of magical knights (Jeff Bridges) trains his new apprentice, as an evil queen (Julianne Moore) summons her supernatural army. Even as a big, loud, roaring B-movie with no aspirations other than to be a cinematic roller-coaster ride, “Seventh Son” is secondrate. Fantasy, PG-13, 102 minutes. H “The Duff” — A socially awkward high school senior (the eminently likable Mae Whitman) ditches her besties after learning she’s their “Designated Ugly Fat Friend.” This well-intentioned and sometimes quite sharp movie falls just short due to a few way-off-the-mark scenes and too much heavyhanded preaching. Teen

romance, 1PG-13, 104 minutes. HH ⁄2 “The Gambler” — This remake gives the James Caan self-destructive gambler role to Mark Wahlberg, as a narcissistic brat, and not the complex kind. Supporting characters played by John Goodman, Brie Larson and others are more interesting. Drama thriller, R, 101 minutes. HH1⁄2 “The Humbling” — Al Pacino is all over the place playing a famous actor who goes to rehab after falling off the stage. As madcap characters keep entering and exiting his life, yelling at him and kissing him and berating him and making strange requests of him, fantasy and reality intertwine in a manner I found more maddening than intriguing. Comedy, R, 113 minutes. HH “The Wedding Ringer” — Despite the considerable charisma of Josh Gad as a friendless groom and Kevin Hart as the ringer he hires as his best man, this crude circus has only one or two genuinely inspired bits of comedy, and its premise is insanely ridiculous.1 Comedy, R, 101 minutes. H ⁄2

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 26, 2015 - E15

TRAVEL FAMILY TRAVEL FIVE

What to know before your child sets off with another family

By LYNN O’ROURKE HAYES The Dallas Morning News

With spring break and summer holidays on the horizon, it’s possible your child may be invited to join a friend’s family on vacation. Here are five tips to consider.

1. Friendly and familiar.

Is your child comfortable in the other family’s home or company? Does the host family share similar values and family rules? While your child may be required to unplug from technology after 9 p.m. or restrict screen time, each family has its own rules. Plan on having a detailed conversation between adults and a discussion of expectations with your child before the trip. An overnight test run is always advisable.

2. Comfort in the details. Discuss the specifics of the itinerary with the other adults and review it in detail with your child. If flying is part of the plan, discuss the various aspects of airport safety, moving through security and ensuring he or she will be com-

fortable on board. Review any steps that should be taken to manage allergies or medications. Discuss the level of adventure, cultural immersion or exertion involved and be sure all parties are informed and comfortable with the plan.

If your child will be traveling outside the U.S., it will be helpful to review the U.S. State Department’s travel checklist. travel.state. gov/content/passports/english/go/checklist.html 3. Better safe than sorry. While it is unlikely that things will go wrong, be sure your child and the other adults have your insurance card and any appropriate medical history. It is also wise to send along a letter with both parents’ signatures, enabling the other adults to authorize medical treatment for your child. If any border crossings are involved, you will also need a letter, signed by both parents and notarized, authorizing your child’s travel. cdc.gov/travel 4. About money. An invitation to join in the fun

Web buzz

summer, when fares are traditionally high.

What’s not: Not for Name: Tixchart.com the faint of heart or for What it does: Searches those looking for firstfor and compares low-cost class travel. Your desire carriers to help you find for a bargain must be the lowest fare as well as matched by your eye for reveals whole-year price detail. Although I found trends. Searches carriers flights from Los Angeles in the U.S., Europe and to Europe that saved the Pacific. thousands of dollars for What’s hot: Plug in your my family of three, the destination and travel short segments had to be dates and up pop two booked on different carrigraphs: one charting ers and on different webprices within a certain sites. I had to take notes number of days of your and use a calculator in departure date; the other, order to make sure the prices for your return. routes were going to work Click on the peaks and logistically and financially. valleys to see the various It would add adventure (or travel dates and their cor- inconvenience, depending responding prices. Then on how you look at it) by scroll down to find spehaving us travel to other cific flights. There’s a filter countries, experience long bar that opens and closes stopovers and change on the left side of your planes several times in screen if you want specif- order to get the low fare. ics about destinations, With a young child in tow, stopovers, duration and is it worth it? For our more. I found routes and easy-traveling trio — heck prices I would never have yes. Note: Still in beta. known about had I used my usual search methods n Jen Leo, Los Angeles for a trip to Europe this Times

may not be all-inclusive. Be sure to inquire about what costs might be involved.

Should your child be prepared to pay for meals, park entrance fees or special activities? How much cash, if any, should your child bring along for expenses, including snacks and souvenirs? It may be appropriate to send a credit or debit card with an older child in case of an emergency.

5. “Please” and “thank

you.” Traveling with another family can provide your child with the opportunity to learn social skills and to expand his or her sense of independence. Discuss appropriate ways to interact with other family members and encourage a quick thank-you card or gift upon return from the trip. n Lynn O’Rourke Hayes is the editor of FamilyTravel. com. Email: lohayesfamily travel.com.

Passenger rights group calls for a cap on airline change fees group has asked the U.S. Department of TransportaIf unforeseen circumtion to adopt a $100 cap stances force you to refor such a fee, arguing that book an international flight the charges are exorbitant from the U.S., you may face for an airline industry that a hefty change fee — as is now collecting record much as $500 per ticket. profits because of slumping But a passenger rights fuel costs.

Los Angeles Times

Change fees for international flights were as low as $50 to $100 for a nonrefundable ticket only a few years ago, said Paul Hudson, president of FlyersRights.org, a 50,000-member group that filed a petition with the

federal agency this month to adopt the cap.

Instead of dropping or holding steady as airlines have reported higher profits, Hudson said, the fees have increased as demand for air travel has continued to grow.

Local travel “HOLLAND IN THE SPRING”: 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Avid travelers and photographers Jim and Elaine Walker share their trip to Holland, including visits to gardens, museums and Anne Frank’s secret annex.

Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityof anacortes.org.

of-the-century buildings, a museum and a self-guided walking tour. $69-$71.

Register by March 27.

“DESERT ODYSSEY”: Skagit Valley College will offer a travel-based course to the desert Southwest on May 8-31.

Students will experience 8,000 years of art and architecture by Anasazi and Hopi cliff dwellers and explore how they reflect the regional geology and biota.

The field experience KIWIS AND KANGAis offered as part of a ROOS: See the culture 15-credit learning comand scenery of Australia munity integrating geology, and New Zealand at 6 biology and Native Amerip.m. Thursday, March 19, can history for SVC stuat AAA Travel and Cruise, dents. A noncredit option 1600 E. College Way, is available for community Suite A, Mount Vernon. members. A number of RSVP: 360-848-2090. partial scholarships are available, based on finan SENIOR CENTER TRIPS: cial need. For information, Skagit County senior cen- contact Chuck Luckmann ters offer short escorted at 360-416-7696, email trips departing from and charles.luckmann@ returning to local senior skagit.edu or visit skagit. centers. For information, edu/news.asp_Q_ call the Anacortes Senior pagenumber_E_3662.

Center at 360-293-7473 or sign up at your local STATE VISITOR CALL senior center.

CENTER: The Washington Tourism Alliance’s SHORT TRIPS: Mount ExperienceWA Call Center Vernon Parks and Recreis open daily from 8:30 ation offers travel oppora.m. to 5:30 p.m., except tunities for ages 8 and Thanksgiving, Christmas older (adult supervision and New Year’s Day. required for ages 18 and 1-800-544-1800 or tourisyounger). Trips depart minfo@watourismalliance. from and return to Hillcom. Staff members crest Park, 1717 S. 13th assist travelers who have St., Mount Vernon. For questions, refer them information or to register, to specific destination call 360-336-6215. marketing organizations Garden & Nursery Tour: and other travel resources 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, across the state for more March 20. Visit numerdetailed information, ous nurseries and garden and take orders for the stores featuring plants, Washington State Visitors Guide. flowers, gardening tools and unique yard art, along with knowledgable staff to PASSPORT APPLICAanswer all your gardening TIONS: Anacortes Public questions. $61-$63. Reg- Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes, accepts passister by March 13. port applications from Historic Port Gamble: noon to 6:30 p.m. Tues8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, April 3. Founded in 1853, days and Wednesdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays.

Port Gamble, located on Passport forms and inforHood Canal, is the only remaining company-owned mation on fees and how mill town on Puget Sound. to apply are available at travel.state.gov, or pick up Explore the 120-acre an application and passNational Historic Landmark complete with turnport guide at the library.

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