360 February 6 2014 full

Bird’s the word this weekend in Edison PAGE 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday February 6, 2014

Reviews

Tuning Up

Movies

Music: Autumn Defense, Robert Ellis Digital Life: Beats Music

Catch Ana Popovic and the Chris Eger band tonight at the Lincoln

“Monuments Men” little too toothless for film with war as its backdrop

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “Dallas Buyers Club”: The film is an example of how the sum of the parts of a movie can be greater than the whole.

Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto turn in Oscar-nominated performances, but their work gets lost in a script that drifts unchecked between a human drama and a political message.

The performances are so good that when the movie shifts to the political battles — shown through the efforts of an idealistic doctor (Jennifer Garner) — it comes across as an infiltrator into the powerful emotional message.

“About Time”: Relationships can be perfect if you can travel through time.

No director/writer has shown a better understanding of the multifaceted aspects of love than Richard Curtis.

He’s done it again with “About Time.”

Even with the fantasy element of time travel tossed into the mix, the film wraps itself around you with a sweetness and affection that resonates with the realities of love — the good and the bad.

His production works because it’s easy to relate to the events and they spark memories of our own loves and losses.

“Baggage Claim”: A young woman decides to track down men she previously dated in hopes of making a love connection. Paula Patton stars.

A harmless romantic comedy that follows a familiar theme: A woman just can’t seem to find the right man. She sets out to find that true love while remaining oblivious to how the man of her dreams has always been in her life.

If you can’t spot this guy, you’ve never seen a Lifetime or Hallmark movie.

It’s the kind of movie Katherine Heigl would have made, had her career not gone into a tailspin.

“Free Birds”: Two turkeys travel through time to change Thanksgiving.

“Burton and Taylor”: A look at Hollywood’s most famously volatile onagain-off-again couple.

“Romeo & Juliet”: William Shakespeare’s love story has been updated.

“My Dog the Champion”: Spoiled teen meets aging cattle dog.

“Escape Plan”: Security expert agrees to break out of a high-tech prison.

“Joanie Loves Chachi: The Complete Series”: Scott Baio, Erin Moran play teens in love.

“Banshee Chapter”: Journalist is drawn into the world of top-secret chemical research.

“Bob the Builder: Let’s Build!”: Bob and his team never back down from any challenge.

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

Upcoming movie releases Following is a partial schedule of coming movies on DVD. Release dates are subject to change:

This Weekend / Page 5

FEB. 11 All is Lost - Lionsgate The Armstrong Lie - Sony Austenland - Sony The Best Man Holiday - Universal The Counselor - Fox Diana - Entertainment One Ender’s Game - Summit / Lionsgate Grace Unplugged - Lionsgate How I Live Now - Magnolia Life of a King - Millennium Spinning Plates - Inception FEB. 18 Battle of the Damned Starz / Anchor Bay Hellbenders - Lionsgate FEB. 25 Blue is the Warmest Color - Criterion Gravity - Warner Muscle Shoals - Magnolia Nebraska - Paramount Thor 2: The Dark World - Disney n McClatchy-Tribune News Service

“A Case of You”: Shy guy goes to extremes to impress girl of his dreams.

“Family Matters: The Complete Fourth Season”: Includes 24 episodes of Steve Urkel.

“From Above”: Power of love’s eternal connection is proven.

“Reaching for the Moon”: Film based on the true story of poet Elizabeth Bishop.

“McConkey”: Close look at the skier turned BASE jumper.

“The Inn of the Sixth Happiness”: Englishwoman (Ingrid Bergman) goes to China.

“The Lady Vanishes”: New adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller.

“Wings”: High flying animated tale.

“Lalaloopsy: Friends are Sew Special!”: Take a trip to Lalaloopsy Land and overcome obstacles.

“The Counselor”: Lawyer puts his connections to the test with a drug deal.

“Pride of St. Louis”: The 1952 biopic based on the life of “Dizzy” Dean.

“House of Versace”: Story of fashion icon Donatella Versace.

“Laverne & Shirley — The Seventh Season”: Further escapades of the best friends.

“Justice League: War”: Darkseid and his forces invade Earth. n Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee

Swingnuts Jazz performs Sunday in Anacortes

Inside

SUBMISSIONS Email features@skagitpublishing.com, vrichardson@skagitpublishing. com (recreation items) Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday for the following Thursday edition Phone 360-416-2135 Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274 Mailing address P.O. Box 578 Mount Vernon, WA 98273

Music Reviews, Digital Life.............6-7 Get Involved........................................ 8 At the Lincoln...................................... 9 On Stage, Tuning Up....................10-11 Travel............................................12-13 Hot Tickets........................................ 14 Valentine’s Events............................. 15 Movie Listings, Reviews..............16-17 Out & About.................................18-19

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? w For arts and entertainment, contact Features Editor Craig Parrish at 360-416-2135 or features@skagitpublishing.com w For recreation, contact staff writer Vince Richardson at 360-416-2181 or vrichardson@ skagitpublishing.com TO ADVERTISE 360-424-3251

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 6, 2014 - E3

COMMUNITY

LEFT: Nick Kinney, 10, of Bow marches down Gilkey Avenue in Edison during the 2012 chicken parade.

ABOVE: Shaun Cammock marches in the 2013 chicken parade with her rooster.

BOTTOM: Aleister Alfstad, 5, visiting from West Seattle, handles a replica golden eagle egg during a presentation at Edison Elementary School in 2012.

Skagit Valley Herald file photos

Birds are the word at third annual festival

By KIMBERLY CAUVEL Kimberly@_SVH

The third annual Edison Bird Festival kicks off Saturday with a roller-skating race and “Be the Chicken” parade downtown, where folks are encouraged to dress like chickens and bring pet ones, too.

The festival is a celebration of the abundance of birds that live in and visit the Skagit Valley and the array of opportunities for birders and outdoorsmen.

The event offers family-friendly activities including bird-watching tours, a variety of demonstrations,

Edison Bird Festival When: Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 8-9 Where: Edison Elementary, 5801 Main Ave. Event listings: edisonbird festival.com n Note: An RSVP to codi_ hamblin@ncascades.org or 360-854 2598 is required for the bird-watching tours

conservation outreach and art depicting many local, fascinating bird species.

Most activities will start or

take place at Edison Elementary School, which has abundant parking and is close to several restaurants and shops.

“I always look forward to the chicken parade most, but also the diverse programming that we have scheduled at the school,” said Jim Kowalski, one of the event’s founders.

The abundance of bird-watching opportunities in the area inspired the owners of Smith & Vallee Gallery and Farm to Market Bakery to start the festival in 2012 — it drew about 350 people.

“It’s pretty much world-class bird-watching right in our back

yards,” Kowalski said.

Departing from the school, the North Cascades Institute and Skagit Audubon Society are coordinating five tours to what locals refer to as the “West 90” — one of Skagit’s best bird-viewing spots — between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

“Birders and bird groups come from all over the place because of the great variety of raptors that can be found (in Skagit),” Skagit Audubon Society volunteer Tim Manns said.

He said there’s a good chance that red-tailed hawks, eagles, shorteared owls, northern harriers,

peregrine falcons, ducks, geese and swans will be spotted.

The Merlin Falcon Foundation is also offering a field trip, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday only, during which participants will learn about local raptors and how to identify them.

Festival goers can also see live raptors and other birds up close at the school, as well as learn about Skagit’s protected great blue heron rookery and waterfowl research in the North Puget Sound area, and watch duck-call and decoy-carving demonstrations.

For art lovers, the school and local galleries will have various displays and demonstrations.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

MOVIES

S

ix years ago, Philip Seymour Hoffman was nominated for a supporting actor Academy Award for “Charlie Wilson’s War.” He attended the nominees luncheon, a swank gathering at the Beverly Hilton, whose dress code is just one notch below that of the attire seen on the red carpet for the actual Oscars.

But Hoffman, a consummate actor known for an unkempt look off-screen, wore a suit so rumpled it looked like he had slept in it. And smack in the middle of his dress shirt was a giant stain — and that was before he took a bite to eat.

Fast-forward to last month’s Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, where Hoffman was promoting two of his new films, “A Most Wanted Man” and “God’s Pocket.” Since news of Hoffman’s death broke Sunday, a number of those who attended the festival commented on how disheveled the actor had looked at Sundance.

Given that the 46-year-old Hoffman died Sunday of an apparent heroin overdose, it’s not surprising that people were trying to discern from his outward physical look what might have been happening in his private life. But that kind of morbid tealeaf reading fails to recognize that the veteran actor was always much more interested in his craft than his appearance.

Although Hoffman excelled at playing characters whose emotional lives often were in disarray, he kept his personal turmoil largely guarded. He admitted past struggles with sobriety, but people who had recently worked with him said they had seen no indication that he had fallen off the wagon. And as far as looking out of shape, the burly Hoffman was never aiming to play a Marvel superhero.

The release dates for the film adaptation of the John le Carre spy thriller “A Most Wanted Man” and the crime drama “God’s Pocket” have not been set. Hoffman also leaves behind the next two “Hunger Games” movies, even though he hadn’t yet completed all his scenes

The public and private sides of Philip Seymour Hoffman

By JOHN HORN Los Angeles Times

Victoria Will / Invision via AP

for the final “Hunger Games” sequel. Hoffman was set to star in the Showtime series “Happyish,” having shot the pilot but no other episodes. The fate of the series remains uncertain.

Hoffman arrived at the Los Angeles Times’ photo and interview studio at Sundance early on Jan. 19 to discuss the making of “A Most Wanted Man.” Even though most of Park City was still asleep, Hoffman was punctual, arriving in a loosefitting cardigan sweater with his hair uncombed. His boots were untied, seemingly less of a fashion statement than what was most comfortable. And he was

eager to talk about his work on the film.

In many ways, “A Most Wanted Man” exemplified Hoffman’s ability to disappear into a role even if he made no changes to his physical form — he wasn’t inclined to the radical body transformations that won acclaim for such actors as Christian Bale in “American Hustle,” Matthew McConaughey in “The Dallas Buyers Club” or Robert De Niro in “Raging Bull.”

Instead, Hoffman’s production diet was preparation and research, perfecting a German accent to play the chain-smoking, alcoholic Hamburg intelligence

operative in “A Most Wanted Man.” His character, much like the actor, has given everything to his craft — a middle-age man passionate about his work to the point of physical and mental exhaustion.

Hoffman was willing to meet with Le Carre, even when the actor thought he had bungled a scene and a more cautious performer would have retreated to his trailer rather than face the legendary author.

“I remember the day he was on set and I was intimidated and I was scared,” Hoffman said at Sundance. “And I remember it was a really tough day of shoot-

ing too. And I remember after the day he came to me. When I really thought I’d screwed the pooch. And I was really tired.

And he came right up to me and he was so supportive immediately. Like he knew exactly where I was and he knew exactly what to say.”

Anton Corbijn, the film’s director, said this after his leading man was found dead: “He was not only the most gifted actor I ever worked with (and judging by the legacy he leaves behind I am certain I share this with most if not all directors who were fortunate enough to work with him), he had also become an incredibly inspiring and supportive friend.”

In the hours after Hoffman’s death, many of his collaborators described him as an unparalleled chameleon, but few explained his immersive process, the results of which often surprised his casts and filmmakers.

Cameron Crowe, who wrote and directed the 2000 film “Almost Famous,” recalled on his blog how he initially imagined one scene with Hoffman, who was playing the rock journalist Lester Bangs, unfolding in a very different way than what his actor delivered.

“My original take on this scene was a loud, late night pronouncement from Lester Bangs.

A call to arms. In Phil’s hands it became something different. A scene about quiet truths shared between two guys, both at the crossroads, both hurting, and both up too late. It became the soul of the movie,” Crowe wrote.

“In between takes, Hoffman spoke to no one. He listened only to his headset, only to the words of Lester himself. (His Walkman was filled with rare Lester interviews.) When the scene was over, I realized that Hoffman had pulled off a magic trick.

He’d leapt over the words and the script, and gone hunting for the soul and compassion of the private Lester, the one only a few of us had ever met. Suddenly the portrait was complete. The crew and I will always be grateful for that front row seat to his genius.”

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 6, 2014 - E5

THIS WEEKENDin the area Sunday Jazz Hour Swingnuts Jazz will perform from 2 to 3 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 9, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes.

Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or jazzatthelibrary.com.

GALLERY WALK Check out a variety of art at several galleries and other venues during the First Friday Gallery Walk, from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, along Commercial Avenue and other locations in downtown Anacortes. Featured artworks include paintings and prints, sculptures, fiber arts, jewelry, glass art, mixed media, pastels, photos and more.

360-293-6938.

WINTER CARNIVAL The third annual Winter Carnival fundraiser will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, at Allen Elementary School, 17145 Cook Road, Bow. Enjoy carnival games, a cake walk, bouncy house and plenty of food. Proceeds will help pay for school supplies, field trips and other student needs.

360-757-3352.

SCOTLAND TRIP BENEFIT

‘BAROQUE LONDON’ “Baroque London: Handel and the Italians” will be performed by Ensemble Electra (pictured) at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at the Croatian Cultural Center, 801 Fifth St., Anacortes. $20 adults, free for ages 13 and younger. 360293-4930 or anacortesartsfoundation.org.

The Skagit Valley College departments of music and drama will present “All the World’s a Stage” at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, in the atrium of the Gary Knutzen Cardinal Center on the SVC campus, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. The evening will include silent and live auctions, dinner and dessert.

Tickets: $30. Proceeds will help send SVC music and drama students to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this August in Edinburgh, Scotland. For those unable to attend the event, donations will also be accepted. Contact Dr. Diane Johnson at 360-416-7655 or email diane. johnson@skagit.edu.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

REVIEWS Robert Ellis

“The Lights from the Chemical Plant” Robert Ellis is an exacting songwriter.

On his third album, the Lone Star State native, now living in Nashville, goes to work with Tom Waits and Kings of Leon producer Jaquire King.

He presents his detail-oriented narratives in a variety of settings, from bossa nova to bluegrass. As he flirts with jazz and honkytonk, and faithfully covers Paul Simon’s “Still Crazy After All These Years,” Ellis is musically promiscuous but narratively precise. His nasal vocal delivery recalls Willie Nelson, but there’s nothing casual about it; he’s not the kind to leave a word or a note out of place. Is he “Texas’ next great singersongwriter,” as Texas Monthly magazine recently declared him to be? Time will tell on that one.

For now, he’s a disciplined and demanding young talent, an old soul of 25 years whose best songs — like the title cut and especially the closer, a self-critical, nonsentimental and, frankly, depressing tune titled “Tour Song” — point to a promising future. n Dan DeLuca, The Philadelphia Inquirer

Jennifer Nettles “That Girl”

This solo turn by the singer for the lightweight superstar country act Sugarland was inevitable. With her powerhouse voice and vivacious presence, Jennifer Nettles had already pretty much established herself as an individual star.

For “That Girl,” Rick Rubin, the bigtime, credibility-bestowing rock producer, does his best to lend Nettles some gravitas.

He frames her in mostly acoustic-textured arrangements whose restraint is admirably matched by the singer (at least after the wailing melodrama of the opener, “Falling”) and her songs — she wrote or co-wrote all but one of the 11 tracks.

The strategy works, to a point. The set tends toward slow to midtempo numbers that are more earnest than anything — the album could use more of the snarky cynicism and roadhouse jump that enliven “Know You Wanna Know.” But there are some standouts: “Good Time to Cry” slips into an inviting, “Dusty in Memphis”-style soul groove, and Nettles manages to rescue “Like a Rock” from its car-commercial

purgatory with a soul-inflected take that reminds you just how good the Bob Seger song really is. n Nick Cristiano, The Philadelphia Inquirer

Jennifer Holliday

“The Song Is You” Twenty-odd years have passed since her last secular album, but it’s not as if Jennifer Holliday’s presence hasn’t been felt. During Broadway’s original run of “Dreamgirls,” the Tonywinning actress/singer set the standard for belting out emotional songs of independence with “And I Am Telling You, I’m Not Going.” With that ringing barnstormer, Holliday opened the door for a million vocal competition contestants, the best of whom, Jennifer Hudson, won an Oscar for the film of Holliday’s hit musical.

The 53-year-old diva didn’t benefit as much from her “Dreamgirls” fame as Hudson, but Holliday is three times the vocalist when it comes to both thunder and quiet nuance. (She doesn’t get enough credit for the latter.) The native Texan relies on her roots in the church and gospel for her husky, holy inflection. “Are You Leaving Me?” is a bold proposition (who could, with that hypnotic pleading of hers?). Then Holliday turns around and offers a warm and intimate embrace (on Bacharach/David’s “The Look of Love”) and a sassy, jazzy, bigband feel in the title track. This is a wellrounded, much-welcome return to form. n A.D. Amorosi, The Philadelphia Inquirer

Broken Bells

“After the Disco” As a whole, “After the Disco” finds Broken Bells no longer feeling like a side project. There is a degree of consistency and focus not present on their eponymous debut. The tracklist does not let up or get bogged down with filler between a few stellar songs, as defined their first release.

James Mercer (The Shins) and Brian Burton (Danger Mouse) have settled into the nature of their collaboration and “After the Disco” shows that Broken Bells has its own identity as much as its members’ other endeavors. n Cole Waterman, PopMatters.com

Other notable releases n Scott H. Biram “Nothin But Blood” n Bombay Bicycle Club - “So Long, See You Tomorrow” n Toni Braxton and Babyface - “Love, Marriage & Divorce” n The Dream Syndicate - “The Day Before Wine and Roses” n Grand Magus - “Triumph and Power” n The John Butler Trio - “Flesh & Blood” n Pat Metheny - “Kin ()” n Parker Millsap - “Parker Millsap” n Danilo Perez - “Panama 500” n Sunn O))) and Ulver - “Terrestrials” n Tony Trischka - “Great Big World” n Young Fathers - “Dead” n PopMatters.com

Marissa Nadler “July”

It’s very likely that we’ll hear more from Nadler in the future, but “July” still feels like an important record for her, one where everything seems to come together the right way. It’s only fair that her resourcefulness and resilience have paid off the way they do here.

What could have been an album that merely showed more unfulfilled promise ended up being a triumph and one of 2014’s best so far. It’s rare that an artist presents a statement so definitive as “July,” but given who it’s coming from, this album’s transcendence is far from surprising. n Kevin Korber, PopMatters.com

Wayne Marshall “Tru Colors”

Some 10 years after the release of “Marshall Law,” Jamaican reggae artist Wayne Marshall has released “Tru Colors,” a diverse 13-track collection under the supervision of Damian Marley on the Ghetto Youths International label.

Written mostly by Marshall, the longawaited record covers a broad range of topics and showcases collaborations with veteran dancehall artists Assassin, Bounty Killer, Tarrus Riley and Capleton.

The standout track is the catchy anthem “Stupid Money,” featuring Assassin. With a delivery that rides smoothly alongside Mar-

shall’s vocal, a hip-hop beat and children singing the hook, it’s reminiscent of Jay Z’s “Hard Knock Life.”

The title track sees an honest Marshall calling out disloyalty and deceit among fake friends over a lively mid-tempo beat, and the rootsy “I Know” is a boastful tease to his peers showing his witty and competitive nature.

“Be on the Alert,” featuring Bounty Killer, draws on the seriousness of missing children in Jamaica, and while “Nah Give Up” with Taurus Riley talks about the struggles of life, it also speaks of triumph, uplifting the listener.

Album producer Marley makes an appearance on previously released club anthem “Go Hard,” which also features Assassin, Aidonia, I-Octane, Bounty Killer and Vybz Kartel. More flavor is added by the likes of Baby Cham, Ace Hood and Waka Flocka as they join the party on the remix “Go Harder.” The resulting mash-up is piled high with energy, and everybody shines. n Biana Roach, Associated Press

The Autumn Defense “Fifth”

When not rocking out with Wilco, multiinstrumentalists John Stirratt and Patrick Sansone dish out smooth ’70s-sounding pop as The Autumn Defense. Their latest and fifth release, the appropriately titled “Fifth,” comes four years after their last effort.

The wait was worth it.

The Autumn Defense is all about melodic hooks and harmonies. Fans looking for some of the rougher musical edges that Wilco dives into will be disappointed. The approach is clearly on display with the opening track, “None of This Will Matter,” a song so easy on the ears it feels like a warm auditory hug.

Stirratt and Sansone find a groove and stick with it through all 12 tracks. That consistency can be either monotonous or entrancing, and sometimes both at the same time. The songs’ lyrics touch on feelings of melancholy, longing, sadness, love and depression. It’s a broad spectrum, all tied together under the rich musical tapestry created by Stirratt and Sansone.

Watch out, Wilco. The Autumn Defense is on the offensive, albeit in a very mellow way. n Scott Bauer, Associated Press

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 6, 2014 - E7

REVIEWS DIGITAL LIFE Ryan Nakashima, Associated Press

Beats Music proves it has some heart There’s no shortage of music subscription services that offer unlimited streaming for a monthly fee. The conceit of the latest offering, Beats Music, is that its playlists and other recommendations are curated by warmblooded humans, not robots.

As CEO Ian Rogers proclaims, “Algorithms can do ‘sounds like.’ They can’t do ‘feels like.’”

Beats Music comes from Beats Electronics, the headphone-maker backed by hip-hop mogul Dr. Dre and former music executive Jimmy Iovine.

For $10 a month, you get unlimited streaming and song downloading for offline listening. Downloaded songs expire once you cancel the subscription. AT&T customers are also eligible for a $15-a-month family plan for as many as five family members. You can sign up for a 90-day free trial, but there’s no free, ad-supported version like some of its rivals.

Beats Music has its roots in the MOG streaming service, which Beats Electronics bought in 2012. Beats Music has a more playful interface than MOG, which was mostly utilitarian. Beats

also introduces a few ways to discover both new and old material.

Apps for Apple and Android devices are available now, with a Windows Phone version promised soon. Computer users can listen through their Web browser. And like other streaming services, you can choose specific songs, albums or artists on your own. Beats Music has a catalog of more than 20 million songs, which is comparable to its rivals.

I began by going through a get-to-know-you sequence for new users, picking a few genres and artists I like.

Somewhat flustered by the scarcity of choices, I picked “Sting,” ”Katy Perry” and “Harry Connick Jr.” and the genre “Pop.” I’m glad I was discerning about these choices (redoing them several times), because eventually I was presented with something I liked.

The Beats Music app tries to take the information you enter in order to present you with a variety of albums and playlists that are “Just For You.” Another section for recommendations, dubbed “The Sentence,” prompts you to

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fill in blanks to establish what you’d like to hear, but you end up with silly sentences like “I’m in the shower & feel like ordering in with my family to Indie.” It’s reminiscent of Allrecipes’ “Dinner Spinner” except I’m not sure what ingredients I’m adding in. I mostly skipped this game because I found the resulting choices to be far too random.

Another “Highlights” section made more sense, like a playlist of the “2014 Grammy Winners.”

One recommendation I liked from the “Just For You” section was a playlist called “Young Lovers Heartbreak Mix.” If you have a rainy day, it’s worth a listen.

The 25-song, 96-minute playlist starts off slowly with the piano ballad “Say Something” by A Great Big World. It builds gradually, ramping up with the rise-from-the-ashes fourth song “Skyscraper” by Demi Lovato. It hits a crescendo between songs 13 and 14, when “Don’t Speak,” Gwen Stefani’s 1996 hit with her band, No Doubt, crashes into Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball” from last year.

Somewhat appropriately,

the playlist ends with Taylor Swift’s power recovery song “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.”

The app says the playlist was created by “Beats Pop,” but the curator was actually Arjan Timmermans, the popular blogger behind ArjanWrites.com. Hired as the head of pop and dance programming at Beats Music last year, Timmermans is one of nine real people who put some 5,000 playlists together for Beats Music. (Neither Dre nor Iovine are among them).

The playlist was designed for “a teenager who got their heart broken for the first time,” Timmermans said in an interview. The songs — a mix of hits by current teen idols and breakup classics like “Don’t Speak” — are meant to work together emotionally, he said, telling the listener, “It’s OK to be sad, but I can move through this.”

The playlist has a beginning, middle and an end and runs about as long as a movie. And I found that some songs’ lyrics work together back-to-back, like the way Stefani’s line “don’t tell me ’cause it hurts” runs

Beats Music via AP

into Cyrus’ “don’t you ever say I just walked away, I will always want you.”

That’s a link I don’t see a machine making these days.

For people, it’s probably a subconscious connection buried deep down there

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I am no teenager anymore, am happily married and am not the playlist’s presumptive audience. But as a sampling of what Beats Music has to offer, it shows me this app has a soul.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E8 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

GET INVOLVED ART CLASSES FAMILY ART DAYS AT MoNA: The Museum of Northwest Art offers Family Art Days each month at MoNA, 121 S. First St., La Conner. Sessions are open to ages 5 and older at all skill levels and include guided walk-throughs of MoNA exhibitions. Limited to 15 participants per session.

Workshops are free with museum admission.

Admission: $8 adults, $5 seniors, $3 students, free for members and ages 11 and younger. For information or to register: 360-466-4446, ext. 106, or jasminev@ museumofnwart.org. Next up: “Basic Weaving”: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2 to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 8. Learn simple weaving techniques using affordable materials — basic techniques suit-

FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK

Feb. 7 6-9pm Anne Martin McCool Gallery Burton Jewelers Scott Milo Gallery The Majestic Inn and Spa Apothecary Spa (2nd floor Majestic Inn)

Gallery at the Depot www.anacortesart.com

able for young children and Fisher at 360-682-6949 or more complex methods for Anita Tatum, 360-969-1681 those who love puzzles and or visit fysmusic.org. patterns.

MAKE-IT-MONDAYS: “FROSTING HEARTS”: 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10, Mount Vernon City Library, 315 Snoqualmie St., Mount Vernon. Adults are invited to try some basic frosting techniques and decorate heart cookies in this free craft workshop.

No experience necessary; all materials will be provided. Preregistration is encouraged, but not required: 360-336-6249.

AUDITIONS CALL FOR THEATER VOLUNTEERS: Whidbey Playhouse seeks a team of behind-the-scenes folks for its April 2014 production of the Tony-award winning musical “1776” that celebrates the birth of our nation. Assistance is needed for set building and decorating, lighting, prop acquisitions and costuming.

For information, contact the theater at 360- 679-2237 or email director Gaye Litka at whidbey995@ comcast.net.

BRASS CHOIR: The Basically Brass Choir seeks trumpet and trombone players to join a group of about 12 musicians, playing a variety of styles. Rehearsals are the first and third Mondays in Burlington, with regular performances.

Contact David Soiseth at 360-757-0351 or dsois@ comcast.net.

CALL FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS: The Mount Vernon-based Fidalgo Youth Symphony offers opportunities for musicians ages 5 to 21 to study and perform orchestral music.

For information, including tuition costs and rehearsal schedules, contact Sara

stressful situations, challenge motor skills and develop confidence in a noncompetitive environment. Classes meet at MUSIC the Burlington Parks and SKAGIT VALLEY MUSIC Recreation Center, 900 E. CLUB: The club welcomes Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. performers, listeners and Ages 3 to 6: 11 a.m. guests to join the fun at to noon Mondays, Feb. 1:45 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, 24-March 17. at Vasa Hall, 1805 CleveAges 6 to 10: 4:30 to land St., Mount Vernon.

5:30 p.m. Mondays, Feb. Come and sing, play an 24-March 17. instrument or just enjoy the $40 per four-week sesmusic. Free. For informasion or $12 drop-in rate. tion, call Marsha Pederson Parents are free. Preregisat 360-757-4906. tration is requested, but not required: 360-755-9649 RECREATION or burlingtonwa.gov/recre SEWING DAY: The Ana- ation. cortes Chapter of Days FITNESS HIKE: Join for Girls Int’l will host Friends of the Forest from a monthly “sewing day” from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, for a fitness hike on second Thursday, beginning Feb. 13, at the Cottage the backroads at Whistle Lake near Anacortes. Meet Hobby House on the NE at the Whistle Lake parkcorner of 12th Street and ing lot for a challenging, M Avenue in Anacortes. fast-paced 8- to 9-mile Days for Girls provides hike for the very fit. Dress sustainable feminine in layers and bring water. hygiene products, health No dogs. 360-293-3725 or education and incomefriendsofacfl.org. generation opportunities for underprivileged young TRAIL TALES: An oriwomen around the world. entation for individuals 360-708-7960. interested in volunteering along the Tommy ThompGRANTS AVAILABLE son trail and Fidalgo Bay FOR NONPROFITS: The will be held from 11:30 Skagit Community Founa.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, dation is accepting grant Feb. 12, at the Anacortes requests from local nonprofits through April 1. The Public Library, 1220 10th foundation creates endow- St. The orientation for new ments and a portion of the volunteers and docents will earnings is granted to non- include four training sessions beginning Feb. 27. For profits that “demonstrate more information, email responsible stewardship nancy.skagitbeaches@ and the ability to make a gmail.com or visit skagit positive contribution in beaches.org.

Skagit County.” 360-4193181 or skagitcf.org.

SENIOR HIKE: Join STORYTIME YOGA FOR Friends of the Forest from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Feb. CHILDREN: Children ages 14, for an easy hike through 3 to 10 can enjoy songs, finger plays, stories, move- forest and wetland habitats ment, breathing principles at Heart Lake near Anacortes. Meet at the Heart and peacefulness, while Lake parking lot. Free. they improve listening No dogs. 360-293-3725 or skills, learn to handle

friendsofacfl.org.

tine’s Heart and Art Day Camp, ages 7 to 12, 9:30 FULL MOON SNOWSHOE a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. ADVENTURE: 3 to 11:30 14, Burlington Parks and p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, near Recreation Center, 900 E. Mount Baker, departing Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. from and returning to Hill- Make Valentine’s decoracrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., tions, visit CreativiTEA Mount Vernon. Venture Pottery Painting Studio in into a winter wonderland Bellingham and enjoy hot by the light of a nearly cocoa and a sweet treat. full moon, then stop for a $40. 360-755-9649. no-host dinner on the way home. Snowshoes, poles BUILD YOUR OWN WEBand headlamps provided.

SITE: Learn how to design $65-$67. Register by Feb. 7: and create your own web360-336-6215. site in this two-part workshop with Karla Locke of Alternative Focus. Classes THEATER will meet in the Anacortes YOUTH THEATRE: Chamber of Commerce McIntyre Hall is offering boardroom, upstairs at 819 a series of performing arts Commercial Ave., Anaworkshops for ages 6 to 12 cortes. this winter at 2501 E. ColPart one: 6 to 8 p.m. lege Way, Mount Vernon.

Tuesday, Feb. 18. Class will All classes are held at 1 cover choosing a template, p.m. Sundays. Tickets are choosing a domain name, free but required and availplanning and page layout. able by calling 360-416$35.

7727, ext. 2, or by visiting Part two: 6 to 8 p.m. mcintyrehall.org.

Wednesday, Feb. 19.

Feb. 9: Let’s Play: Includes advanced designExplore a variety of theater ing, keywords/meta data, games and improvisational linking, media and blogs. exercises with Philip Prud$30. homme from the Anacortes No experience necesCommunity Theater. sary. No software required.

Feb. 23: Global Attend both sessions for Rhythm: Discover music $50. To register, call Karla and basic music concepts Locke, Alternative Focus, with drummer Mary Ellen at 360-588-6968 or email Hodges using drums, shakkklocke1@mac.com. ers and other instruments.

WORKSHOPS LOVE WRITING RETREAT: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Explore writing about love in all its myriad forms – romantic, erotic, brotherly and divine. For writers of all genres and levels of experience. $30$75 sliding scale. To register, call 425-891-7264 or email matthewbrouwer poet@gmail.com.

DAY CAMP: Valen-

MINI WRITING WORKSHOP/BOOK TALK: Author and creative writing instructor Scott Driscoll will give a miniworkshop on writing and sign copies of his new book, “Better You Go Home,” at 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at Village Books, 1200 11th St., Bellingham.

Driscoll is an instructor at the University of Washington Professional and Continuing Education programs, where he has taught creative writing for 20 years. Free. 360-671-2626 or villagebooks.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 6, 2014 - E9

Netflix renews ‘House of Cards’ for third season

AT THE LINCOLN THEATRE

By YVONNE VILLARREAL Los Angeles Times

712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360-336-8955 n lincolntheatre.org

LOS ANGELES — “House of Cards” still has a winning hand as Netflix has voted in favor of a third-season renewal for the political drama.

The early renewal for a third installment, confirmed by a Netflix spokesperson, comes ahead of the Valentine’s Day rollout of its second season on the streaming service.

“House of Cards” was originally given a two-season commitment, so the news makes good on Netflix’s chief content officer Ted Sarandos’ indication last fall

An evening with Ana Popovic 7:30 p.m. today

Ana Popovic, an award-winning, hardtouring guitar slinger from Belgrade, blends smoking electric funk and slide guitar, jazzy instrumentals and a tight blues groove with soulful vocals. Add to the mix her incredible stage presence, all of which makes her an irresistible force in the world of contemporary blues.

During 2013, Popovic appeared on the cover of Vintage Guitar, Guitar Player’s Gear Guide and American Blues Scene.

Her album “Can You Stand the Heat” was a pick of the week by USA Today and featured on NPR Music. She has shared the stage with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Robert Cray, Robert Randolph, Johnny Lang, Sonny Landreth and many others.

The Chris Eger Band opens. $30 general admission.

‘Saving Mr. Banks’

that he wanted to extend the show’s life past that.

This news also comes as a welcome relief for those who have become infatuated with scheming U.S. Congressman Frank Underwood (played by Kevin Spacey) in his quest for power.

Adapted from the original BBC program of the same name by Beau Willimon, “House of Cards” has earned Netflix bragging rights, becoming the first digitally distributed show to earn major Emmy nominations last year.

The third season of the show, which touts David Fincher as an executive producer, will consist of 13 episodes.

CONTINUE THE CYCLE — PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER

Submitted photo

Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson star in “Saving Mr. Banks.”

‘Rusalka’

9:55 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 7-8 The great Renée Fleming returns to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9 one of her signature roles, singing “Song 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10 When Walt Disney’s daughters begged him to make a movie of their favorite book, P.L. Travers’ “Mary Poppins,” he made them a promise — one that he didn’t realize would take 20 years to keep.

In his quest to obtain the rights, Disney comes up against a curmudgeonly, uncompromising writer who has absolutely no intention of letting her beloved magical nanny get mauled by the Hollywood machine. But, as the books stop selling and money grows short, Travers (Emma Thompson) reluctantly agrees to go to Los Angeles to hear Disney’s plans for the adaptation.

Armed with imaginative storyboards and chirpy songs from the talented Sherman brothers, Disney (Tom Hanks) launches an all-out onslaught on Travers, but the prickly author doesn’t budge.

It is only when he reaches into his own childhood that Disney discovers the truth about the ghosts that haunt her, and together they set “Mary Poppins” free to ultimately make one of the most endearing films in cinematic history.

Rated PG-13. $10 general; $9 seniors, students and active military; $8 members; $7 children 12 and under. Bargain matinee prices (all shows before 6 p.m.): $8 general, $6 members, $5 children 12 and under.

to the Moon” in Dvorák’s soulful fairytale opera. Tenor Piotr Beczala co-stars as the Prince, Dolora Zajick is Ježibaba, and dynamic young maestro Yannick NézetSéguin is on the podium. $23 adults; $19 seniors; $16 students with $2 off for Lincoln members.

NT Live: ‘Coriolanus’ 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9

National Theatre Live will broadcast the Donmar Warehouse’s production of “Coriolanus,” Shakespeare’s searing tragedy of political manipulation and revenge, with Tom Hiddleston (“The Avengers,” “War Horse”) in the title role and Mark Gatiss (“Season’s Greetings at the National Theatre,” BBC’s “Sherlock”) as Menenius, directed by the Donmar’s artistic director Josie Rourke.

When an old adversary threatens Rome, the city calls once more on her hero and defender: Coriolanus. But he has enemies at home too. Famine threatens the city, the citizens’ hunger swells to an appetite for change, and on returning from the field Coriolanus must confront the march of realpolitik and the voice of an angry people. $15 general; $13 seniors; $11 students with $2 off for Lincoln members.

– 5th Annual –

Great Northwest Glass Quest February 14-23, 2014 The fun is in the QUEST! The treasure is in the experience!

Find the Treasures! A treasure hunt for the whole family!

Discover unique shops and explore hidden parks while you QUEST for the clue to your hand-blown glass treasure.

Funded in part by Snohomish Co. Tourism Assistance Program.

E10 Thursday, February 6, 2014

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area February 6-13 Thursday.6 DANCE

“Positive”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360-671-2626 or kuntzandco.org.

MUSIC

Ana Popovic, with The Chris Eger Band: 7:30 p.m., The Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $30. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

TUNING UP Playing at area venues February 6-13 LOOKING AHEAD

FRIDAY.7 PETER ROWAN’S BLUEGRASS BAND 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $25.

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

“Book of Days” (mystery): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $16. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

THURSDAY.13

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

Friday.7 DANCE

“Positive”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360-671-2626.

“Baroque London: Handel and the Italians”: Ensemble Electra, 7 p.m., Croatian Cultural Center, 801 Fifth St., Anacortes. $20 adults, free for ages 13 and younger. 360-293-4930 or anacortes artsfoundation.org.

Mia Vermillion: 7 p.m., Studio 1010, 1010 Sixth St., Anacortes. $15. 360-293-1860 or studio1010.net.

THEATER

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Book of Days” (mystery): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $16. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Man of La Mancha!” (musical): 7 p.m., Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Bellingham. $12-14. 360-424-5144 or altatheatre.com.

ANA POPOVIC, WITH THE CHRIS EGER BAND 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $30. 360-336-8955.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Peter Rowan’s Bluegrass Band: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $25. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

THURSDAY.6

WEDNESDAY.12

THEATER

MUSIC

Thursday, February 6, 2014 E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Saturday.8

Sunday.9

DANCE

DANCE

THEATER

MUSIC

“Book of Days” (mystery): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $16. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Whatcom Symphony Orchestra with trumpet soloist Tine Thing Helseth: 3 p.m. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $12$39. 360-734-6080 or whatcomsymphony.com.

“Positive”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360-671-2626 or kuntz andco.org.

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Man of La Mancha!” (musical): 7 p.m., Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Bellingham. $12-14. 360-424-5144 or altatheatre.com.

“Positive”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360-671-2626 or kuntzandco.org.

Jazz at the Library with Swingnuts Jazz: 2 to 3 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21

THEATER

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Book of Days” (mystery): 2:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $16.

360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 2 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18.

360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Love Letters”: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $14. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplay house.com.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Positive” (dance): Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360671-2626 or kuntzandco.org.

FRIDAY.7 MIA VERMILLION 7 p.m., Studio 1010, 1010 Sixth St., Anacortes. $15.

360-293-1860 or studio1010.net.

THURSDAY.6 Ana Popovic, with The Chris Eger Band: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $30. 360-336-8955.

FRIDAY.7 Andy “Badd Dog” Koch: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-3543600.

Goodson: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

2 Buck Chuck (acoustic classic rock & pop): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover.

877-275-2448.

Kate-Lynne Logan: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $7.

360-445-3000.

Mia Vermillion: 7 p.m., Studio 1010, 1010 Sixth St., Anacortes. $15.

360-293-1860 or studio1010.net.

Paul Klein: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Solo Piano Night: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison.

360-766-6266.

Sera Cahoone: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $8-$10.

360-778-1067.

SATURDAY.8 Goodson: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon.

360-422-6411.

Nitecrew (top 40 dance band): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover.

877-275-2448.

Brian and the Ballentines (Americana, alt rock): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Nick Vigarino: 7 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-755-3956.

SUNDAY.9 Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam Night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

Jack Mattingly: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-7666266.

Quinton Rundell: 6:30 to 8 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-354-3600.

Tearjerkers, Wizdumb, Rookie Town, Walrus Mageever: The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

WEDNESDAY.12 Robert Sarazin Blake, John Bow Diddlers: 5:30 p.m., Elliott: 6 p.m., Conway Muse, Edison Inn, 5829 Cains 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. Court, Edison. 360-766-6266. $10. 360-445-3000.

Brass Menagerie Quintet, Nick Moyer: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Equal Opportunity: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover. 360-7666330.

THURSDAY.13 Stilly River Band: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Katie Gray: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-354-3600.

E10 Thursday, February 6, 2014

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area February 6-13 Thursday.6 DANCE

“Positive”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360-671-2626 or kuntzandco.org.

MUSIC

Ana Popovic, with The Chris Eger Band: 7:30 p.m., The Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $30. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

TUNING UP Playing at area venues February 6-13 LOOKING AHEAD

FRIDAY.7 PETER ROWAN’S BLUEGRASS BAND 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $25.

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

“Book of Days” (mystery): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $16. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

THURSDAY.13

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

Friday.7 DANCE

“Positive”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360-671-2626.

“Baroque London: Handel and the Italians”: Ensemble Electra, 7 p.m., Croatian Cultural Center, 801 Fifth St., Anacortes. $20 adults, free for ages 13 and younger. 360-293-4930 or anacortes artsfoundation.org.

Mia Vermillion: 7 p.m., Studio 1010, 1010 Sixth St., Anacortes. $15. 360-293-1860 or studio1010.net.

THEATER

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Book of Days” (mystery): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $16. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Man of La Mancha!” (musical): 7 p.m., Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Bellingham. $12-14. 360-424-5144 or altatheatre.com.

ANA POPOVIC, WITH THE CHRIS EGER BAND 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $30. 360-336-8955.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Peter Rowan’s Bluegrass Band: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $25. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

THURSDAY.6

WEDNESDAY.12

THEATER

MUSIC

Thursday, February 6, 2014 E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Saturday.8

Sunday.9

DANCE

DANCE

THEATER

MUSIC

“Book of Days” (mystery): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $16. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Whatcom Symphony Orchestra with trumpet soloist Tine Thing Helseth: 3 p.m. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $12$39. 360-734-6080 or whatcomsymphony.com.

“Positive”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360-671-2626 or kuntz andco.org.

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Man of La Mancha!” (musical): 7 p.m., Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Bellingham. $12-14. 360-424-5144 or altatheatre.com.

“Positive”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360-671-2626 or kuntzandco.org.

Jazz at the Library with Swingnuts Jazz: 2 to 3 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21

THEATER

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Book of Days” (mystery): 2:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $16.

360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 2 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Gramercy Ghost” (comedy/drama): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18.

360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Love Letters”: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $14. 360679-2237 or whidbeyplay house.com.

“Fuddy Meers” (comedy): Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance, 7:30 p.m., WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage, Bellingham. $8-$12. 360650-6146 or tickets.wwu.edu.

“Positive” (dance): Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $12-$15. 360671-2626 or kuntzandco.org.

FRIDAY.7 MIA VERMILLION 7 p.m., Studio 1010, 1010 Sixth St., Anacortes. $15.

360-293-1860 or studio1010.net.

THURSDAY.6 Ana Popovic, with The Chris Eger Band: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $30. 360-336-8955.

FRIDAY.7 Andy “Badd Dog” Koch: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-3543600.

Goodson: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

2 Buck Chuck (acoustic classic rock & pop): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover.

877-275-2448.

Kate-Lynne Logan: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $7.

360-445-3000.

Mia Vermillion: 7 p.m., Studio 1010, 1010 Sixth St., Anacortes. $15.

360-293-1860 or studio1010.net.

Paul Klein: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Solo Piano Night: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison.

360-766-6266.

Sera Cahoone: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $8-$10.

360-778-1067.

SATURDAY.8 Goodson: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon.

360-422-6411.

Nitecrew (top 40 dance band): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover.

877-275-2448.

Brian and the Ballentines (Americana, alt rock): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Nick Vigarino: 7 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-755-3956.

SUNDAY.9 Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam Night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

Jack Mattingly: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-7666266.

Quinton Rundell: 6:30 to 8 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-354-3600.

Tearjerkers, Wizdumb, Rookie Town, Walrus Mageever: The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

WEDNESDAY.12 Robert Sarazin Blake, John Bow Diddlers: 5:30 p.m., Elliott: 6 p.m., Conway Muse, Edison Inn, 5829 Cains 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. Court, Edison. 360-766-6266. $10. 360-445-3000.

Brass Menagerie Quintet, Nick Moyer: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Equal Opportunity: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover. 360-7666330.

THURSDAY.13 Stilly River Band: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Katie Gray: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-354-3600.

E12 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TRAVEL

ISLA MUJERES, MEXICO Near Cancun, but a world away

The view of the bay off Isla Mujeres from the quiet easternmost section of popular North Beach.

Photos by Amanda Lee Myers / AP

Villa Rolandi or the perfectly located Avalon Reef Club, will cart you directly ISLA MUJERES: Official tourism site, isla-mujeres.net/ to their doors. For others ISLA MUJERES, tourism/home.htm renting a house or staying Mexico — A half-hour VILLA ROLANDI: villarolandi.com at a budget hotel, ferries ferry ride from the nonstop GARRAFON NATURAL REEF PARK: garrafon.com go to the island’s main pier party that is Cancun sits an downtown. island seductively named across the bay. They most soon as the cab from the Try to find a spot on the Isla Mujeres, or Island of certainly would get bored. airport drops you off at back of your ferry in the Women.

Frankly, there just isn’t the dock, where there is, open air to enjoy the view Less than 5 miles long that much for them to do of course, a bar. Grab a and fresh sea-salt air as and just a half-mile wide, on the island. For everycouple beers and relax until Cancun and its thumping the tiny Mexican island one else, that’s kind of the it’s time to board. music fade slowly away. It’s is an oasis that caters to Some hotels, such as the perfect introduction to every set except the rowdy point.

The escape begins as the idyllic, Italian-themed your new temporary home students sowing their oats

By AMANDA LEE MYERS Associated Press

On the Web

in the Caribbean.

Once you arrive, first things first. Get to a beach.

Now. Don’t worry about where you’ll eat, don’t worry about unpacking, just throw on that bathing suit and get out there.

You’ll never forget your first sunset in Isla.

At some point in the first couple days, you’ll want to rent a golf cart, the most popular mode of transportation on the island, along with scooters. The cheapest

options — roughly $40 a day — will be downtown and include carts styled like Jeep Wranglers and pink Cadillacs.

The next few days depend on how much energy you can scrounge up amid the seductively slow rhythm of the island.

My plan had been to go swimming with whale sharks, play with dolphins, go on a few runs along the ocean, maybe hop over to Cancun for a day trip.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 6, 2014 - E13

TRAVEL Local travel WWU FACULTY-LED TRAVEL PRO-

LEFT: Fresh grilled lobster at a popular lunch spot known as Velasquez Restaurant after just being caught in the sea off Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

RIGHT: An iguana basks in the sun on the Mexican island of Isla Mujeres. The lizards are a common sight on the island, especially at the southernmost tip, known as Punta Sur. None of that happened.

Like I said, island rhythm.

My boyfriend and I would wake with the sun around 6 a.m., eventually wander out to the private beach at our hotel, Villa Rolandi, sip our hot mugs of coffee and stand up to our knees in the warm-enough water as we listened to the ocean and stared in the sky.

The rest of the day would include some combination of lying in the sun, reading, napping, eating fresh lobster, drinking beer and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Outside of the private beaches at house rentals and hotels, there are public beaches on the southern side of the island, facing Cancun, with calm, beautiful waters but not a lot of sand or space.

There’s the popular and sprawling North Beach on the tip of the island near the tiny, quaint downtown, excellent for people-watching or finding a game of beach volleyball, if you’re into that sort of thing. This beach has the closest thing to a party vibe you’ll find on the island.

For a calmer experience, head to the easternmost section of North Beach

at the end of a tiny road called Zazil-ha. You’ll find just a handful of people lounging on beach beds for a modest price or on a towel in the sand for free.

Everyone seems to have such a content, sleepy look on their face here, it’s almost comical.

The water is calm, shallow and heavenly. It’s easy to forget everything here.

During one of my days at this beach, I got a blissful, hour-long massage about 10 steps from our lounge chairs. Walking to get a bucket of water to wash the sand off my feet before the massage was the most strenuous thing I did that day.

At some point amid the endless, intoxicating relaxation, we found the energy to drive our golf cart the Punta Sur, or South Point, at the southernmost tip of the island. Once there, pay a nominal fee to explore Garrafon Natural Reef Park, a series of paved trails that lead to the very edge of the ocean.

The park’s designers have managed to make it feel like you’re standing in the middle of the wild ocean. It’s humbling and beautiful.

Other popular activities on Isla include swimming

with whale sharks, docile, beautiful and enormous creatures. That may very well be a once-in-a-life, unforgettable experience, but it’s a minimum of $125 per person, takes up an entire day and some lose their stomachs on the twohour boat ride it takes to even reach waters deep enough for the sea creatures. The season runs from June 1 to Sept. 15.

Others swim with dolphins, a much easier and slightly cheaper feat on Isla, though it also requires breaking away from the near-irresistible, do-nothing vibe that permeates the island. The swim will cost at least $100, but it’s conveniently located in water just 50 feet from Isla’s beach.

Between January and September last year, Isla Mujeres saw 227,540 visitors, according to statistics kept by the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Cancun had 3.2 million visitors in the same time period, proving that Isla is still a wellkept secret.

Or maybe that it simply doesn’t appeal to the partying masses who swarm Cancun. Those less interested in bottomless blue cocktails and grinding in clubs until the break of dawn prefer it that way.

GRAMS: Western Washington University will offer three educational travel programs next summer in Italy and Africa. Global Discovery trips are not for university credit or restricted to Western students. People of all ages are invited to travel alongside Western faculty and gain an understanding of other cultures, including their art, ecology, food, history, language and more.

Trips include: Mount Kilimanjaro Climb and Serengeti Safari Extension: July 5-19.

Serengeti Safari and Kilimanjaro Culture Tour: July 14-26.

Tuscany, Italy: Aug. 31-Sept. 14.

An info session for the trip to study food culture in Italy will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Village Books, 1200 11th St., Bellingham.

WWU Professor of Environmental Studies and Global Discovery leader Gigi Berardi will share her experiences and food background, including growing up in an Italian home and how that inspired her culinary passions, as well as her belief in the importance of minerals, sun and Mediterranean fats in the diet.

360-650-6409, globaldiscovery@wwu. edu or wwu.edu/GlobalDiscovery.

CRUISE SEMINAR: Learn about upcoming Viking River Cruise options at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, at AAA Travel, 1600 E. College Way, Suite A, Mount Vernon. Free. Members and nonmembers welcome. RSVP: 360-8482090.

TRAVEL TALK: “Lesser-Known National Park Properties,” 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Roxanne Parish shares sites on her bucket list of 401 National Park Service units, of which just 59 are national parks. Free. 360293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityof anacortes.org.

MADAGASCAR: 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 12, Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Biologist Julie Barber will describe her adventures in Madagascar and the wildlife she saw there. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityofanacortes.org.

SHORT TRIPS: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation offers travel opportunities for participants ages 12 and older (adult supervision required for ages 18 and younger). Trips depart from and return to Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. For information or to register, call 360-336-6215. Next up: Northwest Women’s Show and Historic Downtown Snohomish: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, March 21. Enjoy the 26th annual NW Women’s Show with more than 400 exhibits, three entertainment stages, seminars, shopping, fashion shows, food and wine sampling, beauty and spa services, giveaways and more. Then visit trendy “new” historic Snohomish, with boutiques, antique stores, bakeries and more. $65-$67. Register by March 14.

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 29.

Grab your camera and binoculars, pack a sack lunch and join birder and raptor specialist Sue Cottrell for a fun, educational trip to the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, home to more than 300 species of birds, mammals, fish and amphibians. Check out the viewing platforms, climb the observation tower, walk along the trails and explore the visitor center and gift shop. $61-$63.

Register by March 21.

“New Day Northwest,” Colorful Ballard and Wight’s Home & Garden Center: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 1. Join a live taping of KING-5 TV’s “New Day Northwest,” then tour colorful Ballard, with time for a nohost lunch, shopping and a visit to the Ballard Locks and the Carl S. English Botanical Garden. Finally, stop in Lynnwood at Wight’s Garden Center, a “National Top 100” garden center. $55$57.

EXTENDED TRIPS: The Oak Harbor Senior Center is organizing several small-group trips for 2014: Trains of Colorado in July and Islands of New England in September. Trips will depart from Oak Harbor/Mount Vernon. Contact Pat Gardner at 360-279-4582 or email pgardner@oakharbor.org.

PASSPORT APPLICATIONS: The Anacortes Public Library accepts passport applications from noon to 6:30 p.m.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays at 1220 10th St., Ana THINKING ABOUT TAKING AN ALAS- cortes. Passport forms and information KAN CRUISE?: Doug Woods will explain on fees and how to apply are available everything you want to know about at travel.state.gov, or pick up an appliplanning a cruise at 7 p.m. Wednescation and passport guide at the library. day, March 26, at the Anacortes Public The Oak Harbor Senior Center Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. accepts passport applications, by Woods also will present landscape and appointment, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 wildlife photos from his various Alasp.m. Monday through Friday at 51 SE kan cruises. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. Jerome St., Oak Harbor. 360-27921, or library.cityofanacortes.org.

4580.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E14 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

HOT TICKETS MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT: through March 2, 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle. 206-625-1900 or 5thavenue. org.

ANA POPOVIC: Feb. 6, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

TOAD THE WET SPROCKET: Feb.8, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BIFFY CLYRO: Feb. 9, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

IMAGINE DRAGONS: Feb. 11, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

JOHN ABERCROMBIE AND HIS ALL-STAR BAND: Feb. 11-12, Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

2 CHAINZ: Feb. 13, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

KYARY PAMYU PAMYU: Feb. 13, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

MINDI ABAIR: Feb. 13-16, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com.

ERIC TINGSTAD & NANCY RUMBEL: Feb. 14, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolnthe atre.org.

KARMIN: Feb. 14, Neumos, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

USC LOVES YOU: Feb. 14, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

THE PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: Feb. 15, Showbox at the Market, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

MILEY CYRUS: Feb. 16, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

ALBOROSIE: Feb. 16, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS: Feb. 16, Comcast Arena at Everett. 866332-8499 or comcastarenaeverett. com.

BAND OF HORSES: Feb. 16, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation.com.

AMOS LEE: Feb. 17, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation.com.

PAUL SIMON, STING: Feb. 19, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

ODYSSEO by CAVALIA: Feb. 19-March 9, Marymoor Park, Redmond. 866-999-8111 or cavalia. net.

PENTATONIX: Feb. 20, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation.com.

THE ENGLISH BEAT: Feb. 21, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

DOC SEVERINSEN, THE SAN

LORDE March 24, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

MIGUEL FIVE: Feb. 21-22, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

THE FALL OF TROY: Feb. 22, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

KEB’ MO’: Feb. 22, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

NEW POLITICS: Feb. 26, Neumos, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

ANI DIFRANCO: Feb. 26, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360734-6080 or mountbakertheatre. com.

THE WILD FEATHERS: Feb. 26, The Crocodile, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

WALK OFF THE EARTH: Feb. 26, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

JIM JEFFERIES: Feb. 27, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation.com.

RAW “Awakening”: Feb. 27, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

MARCHFOURTH MARCHING BAND: Feb. 28, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

THE MUSICAL BOX: Performing “Foxtrot” by Genesis: Feb. 28, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

GLASVEGAS: Feb. 28, Columbia City Theater, Seattle. 800-838-3006 or columbiacitytheater.com.

SKINNY PUPPY: March 1, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

DATSIK: March 1, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

DOM KENNEDY: March 2, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

“AS THE PALACES BURN”: Lamb of God documentary screening: March 6, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

G-EAZY: March 7, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

COMMON KINGS: March 8, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

THE ATARIS: March 12, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

GALACTIC: March 13, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

HERMAN’S HERMITS, starring Peter Noone: March 14-15, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

BRIAN REGAN: March 16, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360734-6080 or mountbakertheatre. com.

MOISTURE FESTIVAL: March 20-April 13, at venues around Seattle. 206-297-1405 or moisture festival.org.

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

BRING ME THE HORIZON: March 24, Showbox at the Market, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

LORDE: March 24, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

WIDESPREAD PANIC: March 25, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 877-7844849 or livenation.com.

THE SING-OFF LIVE TOUR: March 25, Showbox at the Market, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

ROBIN THICKE: March 26, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

GUNGOR: March 26, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BROAD CITY LIVE: March 26, Neumos, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

EMANCIPATOR ENSEMBLE: March 27, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS: March 28, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

KINGS OF LEON: March 28, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

THE DECIBEL MAGAZINE TOUR: featuring CARCASS: March 29, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

SHARON JONES & THE DAP KINGS: April 2-3, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

G. LOVE & SPECIAL SAUCE: April 4, Showbox at the Market, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

YOUNG THE GIANT: April 4-5, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BETTY WHO: April 5, The Barboza, Seattle. 206-709-9442 or

thebarboza.com.

BASTILLE: April 8, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

VNV NATION: April 8, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

IL DIVO: April 9, Benaroya Hall, Seattle. 866-833-4747 or livenation. com.

YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND: April 10, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

KRIS ORLOWSKI: April 12, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

THE WAILIN’ JENNYS: April 12, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

VOLBEAT: Apil 14, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or tickets.com.

SCHOOLBOY Q: April 14, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

PINK MARTINI: April 15, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360734-6080 or mountbakertheatre. com.

DIANA KRALL: April 16, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation.com.

CHROMEO: April 16, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BLACK LABEL SOCIETY: April 16, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

SWITCHFOOT: April 18, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

RICK SPRINGFIELD: April 18-19, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

DARK STAR ORCHESTRA: April 20, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

ELLIE GOULDING: April 23, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-7844849 or livenation.com.

DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS: April 23, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

WHITE LIES: April 23, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

THE 1975: April 24, Showbox at the Market, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

FRANZ FERDINAND: April 24, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

ARLO GUTHRIE: April 25, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham.

360-734-6080 or mountbaker theatre.com.

THE WANTED: April 26, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

SUDDEN VALLEY JAZZ SERIES: April 26/Nov. 15, Sudden Valley Dance Barn, Bellingham. 360-6711709 or suddenvalleylibrary.org.

THE GLITCH MOB: May 3, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

IRA GLASS: May 3, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

STEPHEN “RAGGA” MARLEY: May 6, Showbox at the Market, Seattle.

206-224-5481 or aeglive.com.

STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS: Featuring Edie Brickell: May 10, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

KARLA BONOFF & JIMMY WEBB: May 15, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

LINDSEY STIRLING: May 21, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

SASQUATCH! MUSIC FESTIVAL: May 23-25 and July 4-6, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. sasquatchfestival. com.

THE NYLONS: May 24, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

LADY GAGA’S artRAVE — The ARTPOP Ball: May 28, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

BRIT FLOYD: June 9, McCaw Hall, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or live nation.com.

ONEREPUBLIC: June 12, Comcast Arena at Everett. 866-332-8499 or comcastarenaeverett.com.

DIGITOUR: June 20, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

PARADISO FESTIVAL: June 27-28, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800745-3000 or livenation.com.

CHER: June 28, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

NICK CAVE & THE BAD SEEDS: July 2, Paramount Theatre, Seattle.

877-784-4849 or tickets.com.

JOURNEY, STEVE MILLER BAND: July 19, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com.

MÖTLEY CRÜE: July 27, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 800745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

ARCADE FIRE: Aug. 8, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

BRUNO MARS: Aug. 9, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

JACK JOHNSON: with Amos Lee and Michael Kiwanuka: Aug. 23, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800745-3000 or livenation.com.

DAVE MATTHEWS BAND: Aug. 29-31, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com. (tickets on sale Feb. 21) KATY PERRY: Sept. 13, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. aeglive.com.

CROWDER: Nov. 8, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 6, 2014 - E15

Area Valentine’s events Valentine’s Day is Friday, Feb. 14. The most romantic of holidays gets a sneak preview with several events this week.

“LOVE AT THE LIBRARY”: 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 8, Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St. With this year’s theme of “All That Jazz,” the evening will feature dancing to the music of Fidalgo Swing, wine, hors d’oeuvres, desserts and more. Proceeds from silent auctions and raffles will help the library revamp its Teen Zone to make the space more welDADDY DAUGHTER coming and intriguing for SWEETHEART DANCE: local teens. $50 per person.

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Tickets available at the Feb. 7, Burlington Commu- library or call 360-293-5567. nity Center, 1011 Greenleaf Ave., Burlington. Enjoy “A NIGHT OF LOVE”: dancing to music by DJ Bring your poetry, music Mike Yeoman, photos, des- and stories of love at 6:30 sert, raffle prizes and more. p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, at $20 per couple, $5 addithe Anacortes Center for tional daughters. Advance Happiness, 619 Commertickets only, at the Parks cial Ave., Anacortes. Matand Recreation Office, 900 thew Brouwer and Simme E. Fairhaven Ave., Burling- Bobrosky will weave ton, or call 360-755-9649. together a night of celebration and expression about CHAMPAGNE, CHOCOour diverse experiences of LATES AND CHEESE: 4 to 7 love. $5-$10 at the door. p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, Rex- 360-464-2229 or anacortes ville Grocery, 19271 Best centerforhappiness.org.

Road, Mount Vernon. Taste several sparkling wines, VALENTINE COOKIE artisan chocolates, gourmet BAKING AND DECORATcheese and other treats ING: with Johanne Schmidt from local producers. $3 at from Jalillah’s Cookies, 2 the door. 360-466-5522 or p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, Gretchrexvillegrocery.com. ens Kitchen, 509 S. First St., Mount Vernon. Learn the FATHER/DAUGHTER secrets behind the perfect VALENTINE BALL: 5:30 to 7 chewy and crunchy sugar p.m. or 7:30 to 9 p.m. Satur- cookie, including fluffy, day, Feb. 8, Mount Vernon sweet frosting and easy High School cafeteria, 314 piping techniques that will N. Ninth St., Mount Vernon. wow cookie recipients.

For girls of all ages with Decorate and take home their father/guardian age a dozen sugar cookie 18 or older. $22 per couple, hearts to share with your $11 each additional girl.

Valentines. All ages welTickets must be purchased come. $25. 360-336-8747 or in advance. 360-336-6215. gretchenskitchen.com.

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Friday 2/7 Paul Klein at the Piano

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FAMILY VALENTINE NIGHT: The Skagit Valley Family YMCA will host Be My Valentine Family Night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at 215 E. Fulton St., Mount Vernon. Enjoy an evening of crafts, games and family Bingo. $5 per child. All ages, must be accompanied by a parent/ guardian. 360-336-9622 or j.kerkvliet@skagitymca.org.

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E16 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

MOVIES

Dimitri Leonidas (from left), George Clooney, John Goodman, Bob Balaban and Matt Damon star in “The Monuments Men.” Columbia Pictures via AP

‘Monuments Men’ is too safe for its own good

By CRAIG PARRISH Entertainment/Lifestyles Editor

“The Monuments Men” tells a story, not widely known, that needs to be told.

As the end of World War II looms, it is learned that Hitler and his minions have a plan for the millions of pieces of art the Nazis have stolen during their regime.

The art — other than the pieces that have been seized and made part of private collections — is to be systematically destroyed.

(There are also plans in the works for a “Fuhrer Museum” in his hometown of Linz, Austria.)

This is tantamount to erasing a society’s existence, according to

‘THE MONUMENTS MEN’

HH1⁄2 Cast: George Clooney, Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett, John Goodman, Jean Dujardin, Bill Murray, Bob Balaban, Hugh Bonneville.

Running time: 1:55 MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for some images of war violence and historical smoking

Frank Stokes (George Clooney), who is tapped to lead a group of seven men into Germany, France and Belgium, find the hidden art and return it to its owners.

These men are not soldiers — they’re art historian, curators and

architects — and their entry into the world of their job promises hardship every minute.

And therein lies a pervasive downfall to “The Monuments Men”: its lack of danger. An argument could be made that since the film contains clear elements of danger (Nazis, numerous journeys into dark unknown spaces, oncethriving European cities clinging to hope while in deep despair), that the threat is real.

Movies led by Clooney (who directed) and Grant Heslov (producer and co-writer along with Clooney) always seem to combine wit and colorful characters with a foreboding sense of dread, something they did expertly with

“Good Night and Good Luck,” for example. That film was quiet, almost reserved, but it crackled with slow-burning intensity.

But “The Monuments Men,” for all its surface appeal, can’t conjure the adversity it clearly needs to make an impact. The film nearly always defaults to a glib comment or bemused gesture; some of them work, but many don’t.

A better cast probably couldn’t be assembled: Clooney, Matt Damon, John Goodman and Jean Dujardin all make impressions. And Cate Blanchett, who brings an unmatched luminosity to nearly every role she plays, is almost unrecognizable as a prim

museum secretary, employed by the Germans but fighting them from within.

Bill Murray has the most effective single scene in which his character, a New York architect, hears a recording sent by his family. He hadn’t expected to hear it so soon — he’s just stepped out of the shower, in a tent surrounded by snow — but his reaction is stirring.

With the most subtle of gestures, Murray provides the movie’s most emotional moment, in which a real, palpable sacrifice is clear.

Pleasant, entertaining, but maybe a little toothless; for a movie set in the rubble of war, “The Monuments Men” leans too much to the lightweight side.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 6, 2014 - E17

MOVIES MINI-REVIEWS Compiled from news services.

Ratings are one to four stars.

“American Hustle” — Christian Bale gives a transcendent performance as a con man who falls hard for hard-time gal Amy Adams.

Director David O. Russell and his “Silver Linings Playbook” stars Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence went right back to work together on this wild tale about con artists helping the FBI on a sting. Comedy, R, 138 minutes. HHHH “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues” — It’s a marvel the way Will Ferrell flings himself into playing the loathsome idiot for the ages Ron Burgundy, hired in this sequel to anchor on a cable news network in the early 1980s. The gang all returns: Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, David Koechner, Christina Applegate. Funnier than the original, “Anchorman 2” is also, in its own loony way, a sobering look at the television business then — and now. (Comedy, PG-13, 119 minutes). HHH1⁄2 “August: Osage County” — The dialogue is sometimes so sharp we wince, and the acting by an ensemble of world-class actors led

by Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Ewan McGregor and Chris Cooper is for the most part superb. But this adaptation of Tracy Letts’ play ultimately is sour, loud and draining. Nearly everyone in this story would be the most horrific person at your average dinner party. Drama, R, 119 minutes. HH “Dallas Buyers Club” — Matthew McConaughey plays Ron Woodroof, a grimy, shady, homophobic, substance-abusing horndog in 1985 Texas who learns he’s HIV-positive and procures unapproved means of treatment. McConaughey’s masterful job of portraying one of the more deeply flawed anti-heroes in recent screen history reminds us why he became a movie star in the first place. We start out loathing this guy and learn to love him. Jared Leto disappears into the role of a transgender drug addict and Jennifer Garner is Ron’s empathetic doctor. Drama,

AT AREA THEATERS ANACORTES CINEMAS Feb. 7-13 The Metropolitan Opera: Rusalka (NR): Saturday: 9:55 a.m.

The Lego Movie (PG): Friday-Saturday: 1:20, 3:30, 6:40, 9:00; Sunday-Thursday: 1:20, 3:30, 6:40 The Monuments Men (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 1:10, 3:40, 6:35, 9:05; Sunday-Thursday: 1:10, 3:40, 6:35 August: Osage County (R): Friday-Thursday: 3:50, 6:30 American Hustle (R): Friday: 1:00, 9:00; Saturday: 9:00 p.m.; Sunday-Thursday: 1:00 360-293-6620 BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Oak Harbor Feb. 7-9 The Lego Movie (PG), Frozen: Sing-Along Edition (PG): First movie starts at 6 p.m.

360-675-5667 CONCRETE THEATRE Feb. 7-9 The Nut Job (PG): Friday: 7:30 p.m. (3D); Saturday: 5 p.m. (2D) and 7:30 p.m. (3D); Sunday: 4 p.m. (2D) and 6:30 p.m. (3D) 360-941-0403 CASCADE MALL THEATRES Burlington For listings: 888-AMC-4FUN (888-262-4386).

OAK HARBOR CINEMAS Feb. 7-13 The Lego Movie (PG): Friday-Saturday: 1:10, 3:25, 6:40, 8:50; Sunday-Thursday: 1:10, 3:25, 6:40 The Monuments Men (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 1:00, 3:30, 6:30, 9:00; Sunday-Thursday: 1:00, 3:30, 6:30 The Nut Job (PG): Friday-Tuesday: 1:20, 6:50 Ride Along (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 3:20, 8:55; SundayTuesday: 3:20 360-279-2226 STANWOOD CINEMAS Feb. 7-13 The Metropolitan Opera: Rusalka (NR): Saturday: 9:55 a.m.

The Lego Movie (PG): Friday-Tuesday: 1:15, 3:40, 6:30, 8:50; Wednesday-Thursday: 1:15, 3:55, 6:30, 8:50 The Monuments Men (PG-13): Friday-Thursday: 1:10, 3:45, 6:25, 9:05 That Awkward Moment (R): Friday: 1:05, 3:30, 6:15, 8:30; Saturday: 3:30, 6:15, 8:30; Sunday-Wednesday: 1:05, 3:30, 6:15, 8:30; Thursday: 1:05, 3:30, 6:00 The Nut Job (PG): Friday-Wednesday: 3:50, 6:35; Thursday: 3:50, 6:10 Lone Survivor (R): Friday-Wednesday: 1:20, 8:40; Thursday: 1:20 Nebraska (R): Friday-Tuesday: 1:00, 3:35, 6:10, 8:45 360-629-0514

R, 117 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Ender’s Game” — A firstrate cast of wily veterans (Harrison Ford, Ben Kingsley) and fresh-faced youngsters (Asa Butterfield of “Hugo”) deliver a rousing, challenging adventure that should satisfy most young fans of the beloved sci-fi novel

while keeping the adults engrossed as well. The simulated battles against scary aliens are beautifully shot and expertly choreographed.

Sci-fi adventure, PG-13, 114 minutes. HHH “Frozen” — When a queen with icy powers (voice of Idina Menzel) accidentally

freezes her kingdom, she runs away and her intrepid sister (Kristen Bell) goes to find her. Sure to delight kids and captivate adults, Disney’s musical “Frozen” is the instant favorite for the animated feature Oscar.

Animated musical, PG, 102 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Gimme Shelter” — Vanessa Hudgens does strong work as a pregnant teenager running away from her abusive mother. Writer-director Ron Krauss and a strong cast, including James Earl Jones, Rosario Dawson and Brendan Fraser, elevate some sobering but fairly standard after-school-special material to the next level.

Drama, PG-13, 100 minutes.

HHH “Her” — In writer-director Spike Jonze’s lovely and wondrous ultra-modern romance, a fragile fellow in the not-so-distant future (Joaquin Phoenix) falls in love with the voice of an operating system (Scarlett Johansson). One of the more original, hilarious and even heartbreaking stories of the year. It works both as a love story and as a commentary on the ways technology isolates us from human contact. Comedy-romance, R, 119 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Inside Llewyn Davis” — With this dry comedy about the American folk music scene of the early 1960s, Ethan and Joel Coen have crafted another unique period piece. Oscar Isaac gives a memorable performance as the title character, a thoroughly unlikable, selfish, socially poisonous miscreant. The music is terrific. With Justin Timberlake, Carey Mulligan and John Goodman. Comedy, R, 105 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Labor Day” — A depressed single mom (Kate Winslet) falls hard for a wanted man (Josh Brolin) in Jason Reitman’s adaptation of a Joyce Maynard novel. Either you go with the almost dreamlike, sometimes logic-defying scenario, or you don’t. I was captivated from the opening sequence. Romantic drama, PG-13, 111 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Lone Survivor” — This re-creation of a 2005 Navy SEAL mission builds to one of the most realistic, shock-

ing, gruesome and devastating depictions of war ever put on film. Instead of going for the big-picture perspective, director Peter Berg focuses on the unflinching bravery of soldiers executing their mission and looking out for one another. Mark Wahlberg stars, with Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch, Ben Foster and Eric Bana. War drama, R, 121 minutes.

HHH “Nebraska” — What a joy it is to watch Bruce Dern playing such a miserable SOB in the best role of his long career. Woody Grant is a crabby, boozy, sometimes delusional old guy on a road trip with his son (Will Forte) to collect a sweepstakes prize. Alexander Payne’s latest film is a modern American classic about the dynamic between a father from the generation that didn’t speak about its feelings and a grown son who’s still trying to get his father to explain himself. Stark, beautiful and memorable. Drama, R, 115 minutes. HHHH “Ride Along” — We’ve seen hundreds of variations on the mismatched buddycop movie, and few have been as uninspired and depressingly dreadful as this one. Kevin Hart, who can be fall-down funny at times, at least gets points for infusing boundless energy into his role as a pint-sized video game enthusiast riding around with the snarl-andgrowl cop (Ice Cube) whose sister he wants to marry.

Action comedy, PG-13, 100 minutes. H1⁄2 “Saving Mr. Banks” — Emma Thompson is a perfect choice to play prissy P.L. Travers, who wrote the Mary Poppins books and resists the efforts of Walt Disney (Tom Hanks) to give the magical nanny the Hollywood musical treatment. A lovingly rendered, sweet film, set in a stylized and gorgeous rendition of 1961 Los Angeles.

Comedy-biography, PG-12, 125 minutes. HHH “That Awkward Moment” — Strives to straddle the line between breezy, bromantic comedy and “Hangover”esque guy humor – and fails miserably on both counts.

Talented, charismatic actors including Zac Efron and Michael B. Jordan star in a

not particularly offensive but utterly unmemorable film.

Comedy, R, 94 minutes. H1⁄2 “The Book Thief” — A wondrous, richly textured, sometimes heartbreakingly effective movie about good Germans in World War II, including a remarkable little girl and the couple who took her in while sheltering a teenage Jewish boy in their basement. Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson deserve Oscar consideration for their lovely, layered performances.

One of the year’s best movies. Drama, PG-13, 131 minutes. HHHH “The Invisible Woman” — Felicity Jones gives a fierce and moving performance as a 19th-century actress who knows her affair with Charles Dickens probably won’t end well, but cannot resist the charms and advances of a great (and greatly flawed) man. This is an exquisitely crafted film, and director Ralph Fiennes, who also plays Dickens, avoids fancy, attention-getting flourishes.

Biographical drama, R, 111 minutes. HHH “The Wolf of Wall Street” — Martin Scorsese directs the story of an amoral Wall Street hustler (the ever-charismatic Leonardo DiCaprio) -— a user, a taker, a rat and a scoundrel. Though the little bleep sometimes wears out his welcome, we stick around to see if he gets his comeuppance and to marvel at Scorsese’s continuing mastery. Jonah Hill overdoes it as DiCaprio’s right-hand man, and Matthew McConaughey is mesmerizing as his first mentor. Crime-comedy, R, 180 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “12 Years a Slave” — is a film about great bravery, featuring some of the bravest performances you’ll ever have the privilege to witness. Chiwetel Ejiofor stars as a free man in New York state in the 1840s, who is kidnapped and shipped to the South, where he is beaten, given a new name and forced into slavery.

Unflinchingly directed by Steve McQueen, “12 Years a Slave” is what we talk about when we talk about greatness in film. With Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch and Paul Giamatti.

Drama, R, 134 minutes.

HHHH

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E18 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

OUT & ABOUT ART GALLERY SHOW: “Of This World and Not,” featuring artworks by Skagit Valley artists Heidi Epstein, Eddie Gordon and Allen Moe, continue through March 16 at Gallery Cygnus, 109 Commercial Ave., La Conner.

Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Saturday. 360-708-4787 or gallerycygnus.com.

Anacortes. Ward’s works often represent geological elements. Also showing are acrylics by Cynthia Richardson, pastels by Sandy Byers, oils by Lorna Libert and mixed media work by Martha Brouwer. Gallery hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday or by appointment.

360-293-6938 or scottmilo. com.

PHOTO SHOWCASE: The Anacortes Arts ComSPRING ART EXHIBIT: mission will present “What Check out the Spring Com- Were You Thinking?,” a munity Exhibit, opening tribute to Dick Garvey by with a reception from 6 his photography students, to 8 p.m. today, Feb. 6, at from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday the Jansen Art Center, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat321 Front St., Lynden. The urday, Feb. 7-8, at the Galjuried show will include lery at the Depot, 611 R work by several regional Ave., Anacortes. Some of artists and will feature the photographs will be on special showings by Kathdisplay during February erine Payge and Vernon at Starbucks, at 18th and Leibrant, plus a retrospec- Commercial. tive collection of work

by Michael Davenport.

“COLOR OF WINTER”: A Gallery hours are 9 a.m. show of paintings inspired to 5 p.m. Monday through

by Northwest color and Wednesday and 9 a.m. to light will open with a 8 p.m. Thursday through reception during the First Saturday. 360-354-3600 or Friday Gallery Walk from 6 jansenartcenter.org. to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at Anne Martin McCool GalGALLERY WALK: Check lery, 711 Commercial Ave., out a variety of art on disAnacortes. play at several galleries and In addition to new acrylother venues during the ic paintings by McCool, the First Friday Gallery Walk show will also feature wood from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, works by George Way and Feb. 7, along Commercial Art Learmonth, fiber art by Avenue and other locations Martha Tottenham, jewelry in downtown Anacortes.

by Carole Cunningham and Featured artworks include Debbie Aldrich, sculptures paintings and prints, sculp- by Tracy Powell, glass arty tures, fiber arts, jewelry,

by Bob Metke, gourds by glass art, mixed media, Vicki Hampel, ceramics pastels, photos and more.

by Patsy Chamberlain and 360-293-6938.

Barbara Hathaway, baskets

by Jane Hyde and paintings OIL PAINTINGS: A show by Cathy Schoenberg. Galof large oils on canvas by lery hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dederick Ward will open Wednesday through Satwith a reception during the urday or by appointment.

First Friday Gallery Walk 360-293-3577 or mccoolart. from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. com.

7, and continue through March 4 at Scott Milo GalNW DESIGNER CRAFTSlery, 420 Commercial Ave., MEN: “6 Celebrate North-

twigs, fibers, plastic recycling, etc. Also: n The gallery will host a slideshow/panel discussion from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. n The closing celebration will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 7.

Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. 360-755-3140 or anchorartspace.org.

“ARTISTS IN LOVE: WITH LIFE AND EACH OTHER”: The seventh annual “Love Month” show will open with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, and continue through March 3 at Raven Rocks Gallery, 765 Wonn Road, Greenbank. Gallery coowner Mary Jo Oxrieder will offer her latest miniature mixed media works, framed “Love Grows” series of heart-themed Celebrate Valentine’s Day with art, wine, chocolates paintings, hand-made heart and more during the “Art and Romance” Art and Wine cards and more. Her partWalk from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, in downtown ner, Windwalker Taibi, will Mount Vernon. Participating businesses will display debut the latest paintings paintings, photos, sculpture, fabric art and more in his “Raven’s in Love” continuing through Feb. 28. Poster artist Cathy series, new miniature Schoenberg will be exhibiting at the Front Gallery, watercolors and a few sur420 Myrtle St. Her collection of original paintings will prises. include a preview of wood panels commissioned by The show will also the Art in the Alleys Committee and set for installation showcase the latest works later this spring in the alley between Pine and Myrtle by other resident gallery streets. Art Walk maps will be available at downtown galleries, restaurants and businesses, or from the artists, including jewelry, Mount Vernon Downtown Association. Free. 360-336- hand-turned wooden vases, 3801 or mountvernondowntown.org. Pictured: driftwood feathers, oil ”Shooting Stars” by Cathy Schoenberg paintings and pen and ink creations. For information, including gallery hours and directions, call 360-222west Designer Craftsmen Bodine, Lynn DiNino, Lin @ 60” will open with a McJunkin, Don Myhre and 0102 or visit ravenrocks gallery.com. reception during the First Denise Snyder.

Friday Gallery Walk from 6 During the opening ART FOR HEARTS & to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, and reception, attendees are HAMMERS: The second continue through March 9 invited to bring a small annual Hearts and Hamat Anchor Art Space, 216 object to donate to the mers benefit art show will Commercial Ave., AnaMixed Media Collection. cortes.

These objects will be incor- open with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. The exhibition, comporated into small new memorating the 60th works by the artists during 7, and continue through March 3 at Rob Schouten anniversary of Northwest February, and offered for Designer Craftsmen sale at the closing celebra- Gallery, 765 Wonn Road, (NWDC), will feature the tion on March 7. Suggested Greenbank. More than 40 Whidbey Island artists will mixed media work of six donations include small participate in the exhibit, local NWDC artists — metal screens and scraps, Lanny Bergner, Danielle toys, glass objects, wood or with a portion of the pro-

‘ART & ROMANCE’ ART/WINE WALK

ceeds going to benefit South Whidbey’s Hearts and Hammers, whose volunteers repair the homes of Whidbey residents who are unable physically or financially to do the work. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends (Tuesdays and Wednesdays by appointment). 360-222-3070 or robschoutengallery.com.

BIRD FESTIVAL INVITATIONAL: In conjunction with the third annual Edison Bird Festival, the Bird Festival Invitational art show will open with a reception for the artists from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, and continue through Feb. 23 at Smith & Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison.

The bird-focused exhibition will feature artwork by more than 30 local and regional artists. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. 360-766-6230 or smithandvallee.com.

SILK PAINTING DEMO: 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, at Ann Hardee Gallery, 101 N. First St., La Conner. Artist Sharon Shankland will demonstrate the process of designing and painting on silk as she creates one-of-akind wearable silk scarves.

A selection of Shankland’s hand-painted scarves, pillows and meditation masks will be available for purchase, along with a wide variety of local art and handcrafted jewelry. Free admission. 360-399-1950 or annhardeegallery.com.

TULIP AMBASSADOR EVENT: One boy and one girl from Skagit County will be chosen as the 2014 Tulip Festival ambassadors at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, at the Cascade Mall center court, 201 Cascade Mall Drive, Burlington.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, February 6, 2014 - E19

OUT & ABOUT Candidates will be asked questions and judged on their responses. The winners will represent the festival at events around the county and beyond. Boys and girls in fourth or fifth grade can find out how to apply by contacting the Tulip Festival office at 360428-5959.

She’ll share examples of their strategies for coping with environmental change and suggest what we might learn and do as global citizens.

Lord will also speak at 4 p.m. today, Feb. 6, Arntzen Hall 100, Western Washington University campus in Bellingham, and will offer a book reading at 4 p.m.

“ART ALOFT”: The Saturday, Feb. 8, at Village Stanwood Camano Arts Books, 1200 11th St., BellGuild’s annual juried Fine ingham. 800-392-2665.

Art Show will open with Feb. 19: “Red Sky a reception from 6 to 8 at Morning: Ethics and p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, and the Climate Crisis”: with continue from 10 a.m. to 5 Kathleen Dean Moore, p.m. daily through Feb. 23, distinguished professor of at A Guilded Gallery, 8700 Philosophy at Oregon State 271st St. NW, Stanwood.

University, and director of The exhibition will feature the Spring Creek Project paintings, drawings, mixed for Ideas, Nature and the media, sculptures, glass, Written Word. Moore will ceramics, jewelry, weartalk about global warmable art and more. Free ing and the souring of the admission. 360-629-2787 seas that are threats to all or stanwoodcamanoarts. ecosystems and the people com/a-guilded-gallery. who depend on them, and what can be done.

Feb. 26: “Tropic of LECTURES Chaos: Climate Change AND TALKS and the New Geography WORLD ISSUES of Violence”: Drawing on FORUM: Western Washing- his recent book, the same ton University’s Fairhaven title as his speech topic, and College of Interdisciplinary recent travels in the global Studies holds its annual South, Christian Parenti, World Issues Forum from professor at the School noon to 1:20 p.m. Wednes- for International Training days (unless otherwise Graduate Institute, will noted) in the Fairhaven discuss the intersection College auditorium on the between war and climate WWU campus in Bellingchange and what can be ham. Presentations are free done. This lecture will be and open to the public. repeated at 7 p.m. at the 360-650-2309 or wwu.edu/ Bellingham Public Library. fairhaven/news/worldissues forum. Next up: “HOW IT’S MADE”: Next up: Woodturner Vernon Feb. 12: “Climate Leibrant will narrate a Change and Human Rights: video presentation about Lessons from Alaska”: his work at 6:30 p.m. ThursNancy Lord, author and day, Feb. 11, at the Jansen former Alaska state Writer Art Center, 321 Front Laureate, will present St., Lynden. Learn about ways in which indigenous Leibrant’s unique process Alaskans are challenged for turning raw local wood by climate change that into bowls and platters up threatens their abilities to to 50 inches in diameter. live on ancestral lands and $5 adults, $3 students and gather traditional foods. seniors. 360-354-3600 or

jansenartcenter.org.

badour Gary Kanter will perform his song “Right to HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR: Work is Wrong!” A moderAuschwitz-Birkenau death ated period of questions camp survivor Noemi and comments will follow.

Ban will speak at 6 p.m.

The meeting is open to the Tuesday and Wednesday, public. Coffee and cookies Feb. 11 and 12, in Arntzen will be available. Bring a Hall, Room 100, at Western nonperishable food donaWashington University, tion for the food bank.

Bellingham. Ban will tell For information, contact how she lost most of her Corinne at 360-293-7114. family in the Nazi death camps, and how she shares MARITIME SPEAKER her story to inspire current SERIES: Shipwright David and future generations to Hartford will present “A prevent similar genocides Commitment to the Presfrom happening. Free, but ervation of Tall Ships” at 4 reservations required: 360- p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at the 650-4529 or wce.wwu.edu/ Anacortes Public Library, Resources/NWCHE. 1220 10th St., Anacortes.

Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, LOCAL RADIO: “SPEAK or library.cityofanacortes.

UP! SPEAK OUT!”: 5 p.m. org.

Wednesday, Feb. 12, KSVR 91.7 FM radio. Host jim STORY POLE: “MAIDEN justice will talk with citiOF DECEPTION PASS”: 7 zen activist Dianne Foster p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, about the TransPacific Anacortes Public Library, Partnership trade agree1220 10th St., Anacortes. ment currently being nego- Carver Tracy Powell and tiated. (Show will repeat Leslie Eastwood will explain at 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16). how the Samish story pole speakupspeatoutradio.org. project came to be 30 years ago. Free. 360-293-1910, ext.

UNIFORM COLLEC21, or library.cityofanacortes.

TOR: Doug Charles will org. present “Vintage Military Uniforms and the Men Who Wore Them” at 7 p.m. MORE FUN MUSIC/POETRY: Listen Wednesday, Feb. 12, at the to the sounds of eagles, Anacortes Public Library, running rivers and other 1220 10th St., Anacortes. natural elements in a perCharles collects military formance of music and uniforms from the Victorian period to the present, poetry by Native American then researches the people flutist Peter Ali and nature poet Andrea Weiser from who served in those uni6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, forms. Free. 360-293-1910, Feb. 8, at the North Cove ext. 21, or library.cityof Coffee House, 1130 S. Buranacortes.org. lington Blvd., Burlington.

360-873-2118 or awzipster@ RIGHT TO WORK: Lori Province, field mobilization gmail.com. director of the Washington State Labor Council, will ROCK & GEM SHOW: discuss “Right to Work The 49th annual “Sweet(for less) Laws” at the next heart of Gems” rock and Fidalgo Democrats meetgem show will take place ing at 7 p.m. Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. SatFeb. 13, at the Anacortes urday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Public Library, 1220 Tenth Sunday, Feb. 8-9, at the Oak St., Anacortes. Labor trou- Harbor Senior Center, 51

SE Jerome St., Oak Harbor. Check out member exhibits, demonstrations, dealers, rough and finished rocks and gems, slabs, silent auction, door prizes raffle and more. Free admission.

For information, contact Keith Ludemann at 360675-1837 or email rock9@ whidbey.net.

GLASS QUEST: The fifth annual Great Northwest Glass Quest will take place Feb. 14-23 in the Stanwood/Camano Island area. Hundreds of clue balls will be hidden at participating businesses and public places. When a ball is found, the finder returns it to the location noted inside to exchange it for a SURF ‘N’ SNOW TRIVIA limited edition hand-blown NIGHT: Join the Northglass snowball created by west Straits Chapter of glass artist Mark Ellinger. the Surfrider Foundation Unsuccessful quest-ers can and test your knowledge enter a drawing to win one about surf/snow culture of the snowballs. and oceanic factoids at Pick up a Glass Quest 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, event booklet listing particat Brandywine Kitchen, ipating businesses, starting 1317 Commercial St., Feb. 10, in Stanwood at A Bellingham. Prizes will be Guilded Gallery, the Snow awarded to the top three Goose Bookstore and four-member teams. Entry: Windermere Real Estate; $5 per person. Proceeds on Camano Island at the will benefit Surfrider Camano Chamber office, programs including water Camano Coffee Roastquality testing; beach, river ers, and Windermere Real and mountain cleanups; Estate offices. During the education and outreach Quest, you can also pick up programs and Western a Guidebook at any parWashington University ticipating business location. internships. 215-287-0043 thegreatnwglassquest.com. or nws.surfrider.org.

MODEL RAILROAD “ONE BILLION RISOPEN HOUSE: The ING”: Dance in the street Whatcom-Skagit Model at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. Railroad Club will host an 14, at Studio 1010, 1010 open house from 11 a.m.

Sixth St., Anacortes. Join a to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, billion women (and men) at 1469 Silver Run Lane, around the world in a show Alger. The club operates of unity to end violence large, permanent HO- and against women. 360-293N-scale model railroad 1860 or studio1010.net. layouts. Admission is by donation. whatcomskagit WHALE MUSEUM FREE mrc.org.

WEEKEND: Enjoy free admission from 10 a.m.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: to 4 p.m. Friday through Enjoy a night out while Monday, Feb. 14-17, at the your kids (ages 3 to 12) Whale Museum, 62 First St. play games, make crafts N., Friday Harbor. Museum and more from 5:30 to 10 docents will offer free p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at guided tours at 2 p.m. each the Skagit Valley Famday, or pick up a self-guid- ily YMCA, 215 E. Fulton ed tour map and explore St., Mount Vernon. Chilexhibits on all kinds of dren ages 6 to 12 have whales and the Salish Sea the opportunity to swim. ecosystem on your own. $20-$30. 360-336-9622 or 360-378-4710 or whalemu j.kerkvliet@skagitymca.org seum.org. for more information.

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