Anacortes Holiday Guide 2009

Anacortes

Holiday Guide 2009

A supplement to the Anacortes American

Prices are valid through November 26, 27, 28, 19 & 30, 2009, while supplies last!

DOORS OPEN AT 7AM!!

HARDWARE

ANACORTES 1720 “Q” Ave 293-3535 Mon-Fri 7-7 • Sat 8-6 • Sunday 8-6

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Prices are valid through November 26, 27, 28, 19 & 30, 2009, while supplies last!

2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

November 2009

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Holiday Guide 2009

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Celebration of Trees

Lighted boat parade

Holiday dance

Enjoy a free display of creatively decorated Christmas trees, entertainment, hot cocoa, cookies and craftmaking Dec. 4 and 5 at the Port of Anacortes’ main warehouse.

Guemes Channel will be ablaze with the holiday spirit Dec. 19 when the lighted boat parade goes out to the Washington State Ferries terminal and back.

Fidalgo DanceWorks’ two holiday presentations — “Winter Celebration” and “The Nutcracker Ballet” — provide festive holiday entertainment for the whole family.

Publisher Jack Darnton EDITOR Kimberly Jacobson LAYOUT/DESIGN Patricia Stowell ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Vallerie Feltus DISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER Deb Bundy

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Sandy Everett: severett@skagitpublishing.com Stephanie Fussell: sfussell@skagitpublishing.com Stephanie Harper: sharper@skagitpublishing.com Leah Hines: lhines@skagitpublishing.com

Marcus McCoy: mmccoy@skagitpublishing.com Kathy Schultz: kschultz@skagitpublishing.com

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Santa has been scouting Fidalgo Island this holiday season looking for the best places to land.

Helping him are some elves from a sub-group of the Old Anacortes Rowing Society. This smooth-stroking bunch, known as the Anacortes Noon Kiwanis Rowing Society, was photographed by news editor Elaine Walker as it explored the Cap Sante Boat Haven.

2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

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ith the economy still lagging, many people are planning a simpler holiday season and cutting back on gift spending. For some, providing a good meal for their family and a few presents is a struggle.

Local food banks are seeing more families coming in who need help.

“We’ve been getting a lot more people in the food bank,” added Belinda Dye, director of the Anacortes 100 Food Bank.

“The dynamic has shifted from single individuals or two-party households to larger families of five or more,” said Joanne Reinikka, Salvation Army social services director.

You can help.

Local service organizations work hard every year to make sure families have a happy holiday season — from a food basket to toys for the kids.

And this year giving is more important than ever.

Giving food As in years past, the Anacortes 100 Food Bank and Salvation Army Food Bank plan to distribute holiday baskets with turkey or ham and all the trimmings to needy local families. To do so, the food banks count on contributions of nonperishable food and money.

“Anacortes is the most giving community I have ever been in,” Reinikka said.

“They’re phenomenal. Our food bank couldn’t do what we do without contributions here.”

The Salvation Army and Anacortes 100 Food Bank expect a greater need this year.

“We’re looking at about 250 (baskets),” Reinikka said.

Dye is expecting to do at least as many as last year’s 175 baskets.

The food banks always need donations of the basics — cranberries, canned yams, chicken broth, olives, pumpkin pie mix (that only requires adding evaporated milk and eggs), mandarin oranges, stuffing mix,

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canned veggies, margarine, white and brown sugar, flour, boxed or fresh potatoes, canned milk and canned fruit.

“Anything that would go with a traditional turkey dinner,” Dye said.

Turkeys and hams are also needed.

Reinikka said they’re also asking for Cornish game hens this year for smaller households.

“They can give a food donation or they can buy gift certificates to purchase a turkey or a ham or whatever people would prepare,” she said.

Some people don’t have access to cooking facilities, so pre-made items like pies are needed.

Monetary donations are also helpful, as food banks can often purchase food items in bulk. Holiday food and cash donations last beyond Christmas.

Yuletide offerings will be used to carry the food banks through leaner months ahead.

“That’s a huge relief for our food bank,” Reinikka said.

2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

The Anacortes 100 Food Bank is at 512 Fourth St. Call 293-6445 for more information. The Salvation Army is at 3001 R Ave., suite 100. Call 293- 6682.

Those who want to help can drop off donations at either food bank or volunteer at the Salvation Army for a variety of tasks, including assembling food baskets, shopping for toys for the Angel Tree program or simply helping out at the food bank.

Giving cheer Last year, hundreds of Anacortes kids found presents under their trees on Christmas morning because of the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program. Angel Trees will be set up around town.

Angel tags on the trees give the names of children, their ages and their requests for specific items of clothing and toys.

“We like to make all kinds of things available from stuffed animals to DVDs to books to puzzles and games for all ages,”

Reinikka said. “Anything small to large would be great.”

Businesses and organizations are also encouraged to participate in the Adopt-aFamily program by providing food, gifts and all the basics that a family needs for Christmas.

New items should be brought, unwrapped, to the Salvation Army building at 3001 R Ave. by Friday, Dec. 18. Cash donations may also be dropped off at that address, or simply slipped into a bell ringer’s kettle. Volunteers will be posted in front of Safeway, The Market at Anacortes, Rite Aid, Walgreens and near the post office.

“Everything that is collected in the kettles stays in the community,” Reinikka said.

Funds go to support the Salvation Army’s social services programs, including its food bank.

Call 293-6682 for more information about the Salvation Army’s programs to help the needy in the community. goskagit.com

Community C e l e b r at i o n s

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njoy music performances, hot cocoa and a visit from Santa at the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Tree Lighting ceremony 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 at Ninth Street and Commercial Avenue.

The town crier will make an appearance and students from Anacortes High School and Fidalgo and Island View elementary schools will enrich the celebration with performances.

Kids can also get free pictures with Santa. Hot cocoa and cookies from the American Red Cross are available.

After the tree lighting, visitors are invited to enjoy the Anacortes Holiday Artwalk from 6-9 p.m.

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he Anacortes Lions Club’s annual Christmas parade is 11 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 5 on Commercial Avenue. Setup begins at 10 a.m.

Arrive at the parade with your application in hand 10-10:45 a.m. to get a parade position. Lining up on Third Street between O and Commercial avenues are floats, vans with passengers, walkers and bicyclists. On Second Street are horses and horse carriages. On Third Street between N and O avenues are fire department and emergency vehicles.

On Commercial Avenue next to the rope factory are cars and car club entries.

The route follows Commercial Avenue.

There is no fee.

Candy will be distributed during the parade.

To register in advance, e-mail yourparade@ att.net with your name, phone number and entry type.

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

Gifts from city shops bring cheer all year to new shelter T he Anacortes American newsroom was set loose on the town to find gifts to make the new Anacortes Family Shelter feel more like a home. We had $300 to spend on nine different themes. The only rule: All the gifts had to be purchased on the island.

We had a blast buying fun items — a plush throw blanket, a super-sized fire house puzzle, an In a Pickle word game and a good start to the shelter’s library.

With about a month left to get your Christmas shopping done, make sure to think about your

J

ohn Atkinson of Sheely’s Floral & Gifts knows his interior decor. He also knows how to be kind to his community.

While I went in his shop at 1420 Commercial Ave. looking to “purchase” a throw blanket for the shelter’s family room, he was ready to donate one completely free of charge.

Though the item usually sells for double the amount, I managed to give Atkinson the $30 I had in my budget plus another $2.46 for tax.

The item he helped me pick out was a Bedford Cottage olive-colored, Montauk-styled blanket made in New Hampshire.

Atkinson carries such blankets throughout the year with prices ranging from $60 to about $90, in addition to a fine selection of rugs, small furniture items and other home accessories and gifts.

And that’s all beside being voted the best florist in Anacortes by the Anacortes American for the past nine years.

— Joan Pringle, staff writer

local businesses. You never know what fantastic gift you’ll come across.

If community giving is in your holiday budget, the shelter is still looking for donations of items like plastic kitchen trash bins, covered diaper bins, rugs, cleaning supplies and other items to help families settle in.

Another way to support the shelter is by purchasing a $10 gold-filigree Anacortes Family Center Christmas ornament.

Contact Anacortes Community Shelter Project President Eric Johnson at Eric@AnacortesFamily.org or at 299-8889.

Wreaths are delivered around Thanksgiving.

It’s too late to order wreaths from the Scouts this year, but keep your eyes open for boys selling them in late October and early November next year.

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am an admitted book nut. I can’t remember a time when my nightstand didn’t have a stack of books piled on top and there is no way I will get through my ever-growing list of books to read. So, I was thrilled when I could share my love of reading by — Kimberly Jacobson, staff writer buying some books for the shelter.

The first stop of my book-buying adventure was the hat’s black and white and hopefully used all Anacortes Public Library’s FriendShop Bookstore. The over? shop features gently used books for great bargains. Plus, A black and white (with a little gray) pillow proceeds help support our library. from Maison et Jardin.

One of my favorite finds was a coffee table book Proprietor Zee Hogan helped me pick out the deco- titled “The Amazing 10,000 Quiz Challenge,” which rative, comfy item from her store’s selection of high-end set me back just $3. It includes general knowledge, pillows. While the one we settled on was a little out picture quizzes, themed quizzes and special subjects. of my budget, Hogan let me have for it for $30 since it I thought the book would be a great way for families at was the shelter to interact and learn something new. It’s got fun questions like “What can cats do with their claws going to the shelter. that dogs cannot do?” (retract them) and “What is a The pillow has a Brighton Toile 18th-century design peruke?” (a wig). on a canvas material that is sure to stand up to many The shop had some great kids books and I left with a hours of snuggling. pile for about five bucks. I picked up titles like “Science Not only does the pillow get donated to a worthy in a Bottle” that includes 12 fun experiments (25 cents), hat better way to spruce up the shelter for the cause here in Anacortes, product sales from the Wila couple books in the Little Bear series (also a quarter holidays than a wreath? liamsburg, Va., company where it originated help sup- each), Disney’s “Aladdin” ($1) and one of my all-time I contacted Anacortes’ Boy Scout Troop 81 in port the ongoing restoration, research and educational favorites as a kid, “The Berenstain Bears and the Truth” late October and ordered a 36-inch mixed wreath for programs of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

(25 cents). $30. It was the fancier option, which includes noble fir Maison et Jardin at 404 Commercial Ave. has a wide I wasn’t sure what age group kids would be at the with cedar sprigs and pine cones. Do-it-yourselfers can variety of items, “a poetic blend of beautiful things,” shelter, so I also made sure to pick up some books opt for the plain fir wreath to decorate themselves. The according to its Web site, for home and garden. appropriate for older kids as well — Judy Blume’s “Starwreaths come in a variety of sizes, starting at 20-inch

ring Sally J. Freedman as Herself” (50 cents), the Lizzie wreaths for $15.

— Joan Pringle, staff writer McGuire series book “New Kid in School” (25 cents),

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

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“Help! I’m Trapped in an Alien’s Body” (25 cents) and “So B. It” (50 cents).

Mom and Dad might want some quiet time once the kids are tucked in for the night so I also bought “The Secret Life of Bees” (one of my recent favorites), “Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood” (it’s on my own to-read list) and John Grisham’s “The King of Torts,” all for 50 cents each.

I walked out with 17 books for just $13.25.

If you’re looking for gently used books, you can also check out Pelican Bay Used Books at 1104 Ninth St. and Earth Bound Used Bookstore at 619 Commercial Ave. I wanted to make sure the shelter’s library also had some brand-new books in its collection so I headed to the Watermark Book Co., 612 Commercial Ave. I picked up some childhood favorites of mine: the Angelina Ballerina series book “The Costume Ball” ($3.99), Eric Carle’s “The Grouchy Ladybug” ($7.99) and Beverly Cleary’s “Ramona Quimby, Age 8” ($5.99).

I came in right under my $33 budget at $32.69.

Maybe I could go back to the FriendShop for just one more...

— Kimberly Jacobson, staff writer

since, well, they were going in the family room at the shelter.

First selected was “The Princess Diaries” with Julie Andrews and Anne Hathaway, described as a modern day Cinderella story sure to please any little girl or adult woman for that matter.

Next was a Jodie Foster and Gerard Butler flick, “Nim’s Island.” The movie tells the story of Nim Ruscoe played by Abigail Breslin and her gaggle of animal friends on a deserted island she shares with her father.

I’ve never seen it but with Breslin, who played the little girl in “Little Miss Sunshine,” I knew it would be good.

After a quick survey among The Business’ customers at the time, my next selection was “Shrek 2.” With one patron saying the sequel was as good as the first, it got thrown into the pile.

Last and not least is the heartwarming, holiday tale of a little girl named Jessica Riggs who mistakes a wounded reindeer for one of Santa’s own. “Prancer” tells the story of true devotion and friendship, according to the DVD case.

Though I was able to snag all four of these great movies for the shelter, The Business has a wide selection of used and new DVDs, along with videos, CDs, hen home entertainment items came on my list vinyl records, books and even assorted items by local for shelter items, I knew the place to go was artists to help with anybody’s holiday shopping.

The Business at 402 Commercial Ave. With used DVDs for $6.99 each, I was able to pick — Joan Pringle, staff writer out four movies and still come in within my $33 budget after the tax was added in.

I decided to stay in the family genre of movies

W

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I

t’s always good to make sure kids have something fun to keep them busy. My job was to get some toys to keep the shelter’s youngsters occupied.

Coloring was always a favorite pastime of mine, so I headed to Rite Aid, 1517 Commercial Ave., in search of coloring books. I left with jumbo coloring and activity books featuring Sesame Street characters, Arthur and Garfield, all for $2.99 each. I also grabbed two sets of washable crayons for $1.29 each.

Running around always helps kids burn off energy.

I was torn between jump ropes or some sort of ball.

I finally settled on a pink and blue football complete

Put Us On Your Christmas Shopping List

for the Golfer Call the Pro Shop at 360.424.0800 or visit www.eaglemontgolf.com

W

hile Tracys has two floors of furniture to choose from, the home furnishing store also has a wide selection of area rugs in various sizes.

Sales person Stephanie Patrick helped me pick out a lovely 2-by-3-foot, hand-woven, 100 percent cotton rug from Prairie Rugs for the shelter.

The rug is machine washable and easy to maintain.

And the cool mint color is sure to brighten a room as well as serve as a neutral color to match with anything.

The rug’s price, $29 marked down from $45, was just perfect for the budget, adding up to just $31.38 with tax.

But with a selection of so many lovely items at the store, it was hard to walk out with just it.

Other rugs of similar size at Tracys at 1920 Commercial Ave. ranged from $35 to $79 in all kinds of materials and colors.

— Joan Pringle, staff writer

• Nautical Antiques • Brass Clocks & Barometers • Weather Instruments

• Cutlery & Specialty Knives • Boots and Outer Wear • Fresh Roasted Coffee Beans

293-3014 • 202 Commercial Anacortes

Remember the Gift of Custom Framing & Fine Art for the Holidays!

420 COMMERCIAL • ANACORTES • 360-293-6938 • WWW.SCOTTMILO.COM 2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

with kicking tee ($8.49). That way a group of kids, and even some parents, can get into the action.

My next stop was Red Snapper, 501 Commercial Ave., in search of a puzzle. It ended up being my favorite buy. After going back and forth, I decided on a super-size floor puzzle of a fire department, complete with truck, firefighters and a Dalmatian ($11). What kid doesn’t think fire trucks are cool?

With tax I was a little over budget at $33.58 but I figured there were no Grinches in accounting.

all points. There’s a Farkel game for every personality, like Pirate Farkel, Full Contact Farkel, Moose Farkel, Old Farkel and Glow in the Dark Farkel, and Moritz stocks a bunch of them.

LCR, the left-center-right dice game, was $6.95. A simple game of chance, players each get three chips then roll three ordinary dice. An L or R means the player passes a chip left or right, and C goes to the pot.

The fewer chips a player has, the fewer dice he or she may roll.

My total was $32.30, just under budget.

— Kimberly Jacobson, staff writer But Moritz got so excited about helping the Anacortes Family Shelter that she threw in two more games family shelter is sure to have a lot of kids at no charge. In a Pickle, $14.95, is a word game for gathering and wondering what to do with ages 10 and up. In it, players get cards naming oddball themselves, so a few hot new games seemed items. A player wins a set by coming up with the larglike a good gift. est item — one the others could fit into. Can a giraffe Finding games in Anacortes is easy — go to your fit into a phone booth? happy place, Boxes and Bears.

Hang Four, “the ruff surfin’ card game,” is for kids Store owner Diane Mortiz was enthusiastic, and slightly younger. Players cash in sand dollars to assoon she had me loaded up with two dice games and a semble cards completing colorful pictures of dogs on letter tile game. surf boards.

Word Rummy, $12.95, sounds fun — a bit like It turned out I wasn’t quite done. On the way out of Scrabble livened up with “stealing.” You earn points the store I snagged World of Warcraft, The Adventure for making words with your letter tiles, but opponents Game. This board version of the online game is sure may steal your points and add a few more if they make to be popular with the gamers in my family, and since a bigger word using all your letters. This is sure to add it is landing under my Christmas tree, I’ll just keep the energy to a match. price to myself.

Spicy! Farkel, $9.95, is part of the popular Pocket Farkel series. A player throws six dice and racks up a — Elaine Walker, news editor score — unless the unlucky player “farkels” and loses

A

Skagit Valley Academy of Dance, Inc.

proudly presents

20th Annual

The

Nutcracker

The Farmhouse Lutefisk & Scandinavian Buffet

Accordian Entertainment 3:30-7:30

A “Skagit Valley Tradition”, your local dance academy features 100 of the most talented dancers and performers in our community performing in this holiday classic!

Performing for a limited time at

McIntyre Hall

Friday, December 11, 2009 7:30 pm Saturday, December 12, 2009 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

ALSO: Special Event featuring the

360.466.4411

LaConner Whitney Rd. & Hwy. 20

“20 Years of Clara” Enjoy meeting our previous “Claras”...dating back to 1990 Saturday Evening

December 12, 2009

Get Your Tickets at www.mcintyrehall.org or call 360.416.7727 for more information please call Skagit Valley Academy of Dance, Inc. @ 360.424.6677

2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

W

e thought a house plant would make a good Christmas gift to brighten up a brand-new facility that might feel a little sterile when it first opens.

Ace Hardware was my first stop, and turned out to be the right place to pick up a pretty indoor plant. A hanging display inside the store’s back door offered a lovely assortment of greenery — spider plants, strawberry plants, ferns and more. I set my sights on a fern that looked robust, needed only indirect light and didn’t seem to take up too much space. It was priced at $13.99.

The fern was on a hanger, but I didn’t think anyone would be keen to drill holes in the shelter’s fresh new ceilings, so I checked out the pots. I found an attractive ceramic one with an appealing cobalt blue glaze, $11.99. Rounding out the purchase was a plastic saucer to contain drips, $1.99.

This was the easiest of my shopping assignments, completed in about 20 minutes and under budget at $30.26.

— Elaine Walker, news editor

Open Christmas Day 8am-7pm

FEATURING: Lutefisk, Swedish Meatballs, Ham, Fish Balls, Fish Cakes, Poached Salmon, Komla, Pickled Herring, Red Bliss Potatoes, Rice Pudding, Salads, Lefsa, Breads, Pumpkin Pie, Apple Crisps, Scandinavian Cookies and more.

December 6th & 13th, 12:00pm-6:00pm Adults $29.95 Seniors $25.95 Kids $9.95 RESERVATIONS 360.466.4411 goskagit.com

Gift wrapping benefits Summit Assistance Dogs

D

on’t want to wrap all your Christmas gifts? Lydia Oakes is offering a gift wrap fundraiser benefiting Summit Assistance Dogs, which trains and places highly skilled service dogs for people living with disabilities.

This is the third year of the fundraiser. In 2007, it raised $1,200 in donations. Her goal this year is $2,500.

This year Oakes and friends will offer wrapping next to Santa at Cascade Mall. Anyone living in Anacortes can contact Oakes and she’ll find a local drop-off point to connect with you to save you a trip to the mall.

Because it is sponsored by the Cascade Mall, there are set prices for wrapped packages. Cost is $5 per small item, $7 per medium item, $9 per large item and $15 for oversized items. No boxes will be provided.

Oakes has purchased festive paper

and loves to decorate packages with colorful raffia ribbon so your gifts will look beautiful under your tree.

Wrapping is offered 3-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, Sunday, Dec. 6, Saturday, Dec. 12, Sunday, Dec. 13, Sunday, Dec. 20 and Wednesday, Dec. 23 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24.

She is also looking for volunteers to help wrap.

Call Oakes at 588-8083 and leave a clear message with phone number.

Summit Assistance Dogs has been her charity of choice since moving to Anacortes in 2002. She has served as volunteer coordinator and fundraiser for the organization. Summit Assistance Dogs is an Anacortes-based 501(c)3 nonprofit. All donations are tax deductible. It was founded in 2000 and has graduated 45 service dog pairs both locally and throughout the Northwest.

Boutique & Men’s Store

Tis the season for giving... to others and yourself....

Let us dress you this holiday season!

We also have great gifts for women and men.

293-9888 • 520 Commercial

“We’re proud to give back to the community we call Home” Sebo’s is committed to giving back to the neighborhood where we live and work. That’s why we contributed our time, energy and support to these organizations in 2009: Wrestlers for Life • American Red Cross Boys and Girls club • Boy Scout Troop 81 Anacortes Girl Scouts • Island Hospital Employees Guild Anacortes Community Forest Lands • Anacortes Cheer Boosters Argus Fund • Young Life • Youth Dynamics • Fidalgo Island Rotary HARDWARE Anacortes Rotary • Anacortes Co-op Preschool • Whitney Preschool Anacortes Senior Center • Woodchopper’s Ball • Guemes Island Dog Run & EQUIPMENT RENTAL March for Meals • Thunderbird Aquatic Club • Island View PTA • A Natural Resource 1102 Commercial • Anacortes Skagit Valley Vipers • Anacortes Community Gardens • Beat the Heat Skagit Habitat for Humanity • Similk Ladies Hospice • Anacortes Youth Sports Coalition Kiwanis Sunrisers Club • Anacortes High School French Club • Bark in the Park • Kids are Best Fest www.SEBOS.com Anacortes Mah Jong tournament • Friends of Friends

360.293.4575

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

HOLIDAY Shelter Bay Chorus Holiday Concert

A convict watches as Marie Louise Ducotel, played by Adrienne Hart, decorates the family tree in Whidbey Playhouse’s comedy ‘My Three Angels.’

Family musical ‘Honk!’ continues at ACT

“Honk!,” a musical comedy by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, continues through Dec. 19 at Anacortes Community Theatre.

ACT’s annual holiday family production, directed by Cally Johnson, is a witty, hilarious but deeply moving play centered on Ugly, whose odd, gawky looks incite prejudice from his family and neighbors.

Separated from the farm, Ugly undertakes a journey to find not just home, but also love and acceptance in all its forms.

Tickets are $16. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 29 and Dec. 6 and 13. For more information, call the box office at 293-6829.

• 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9 — Fidalgo Elementary Holiday Concert at Brodniak Hall.

• 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14 — Anacortes High School and Middle School choir concert.

• 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16 — Winter Band Concert by grade 5-12 band students, at Brodniak Hall.

• 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 — Mount Erie sixth-graders present a musical production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” on the Mount Erie stage.

Angelic comedy wraps up at Playhouse

Three angelic convicts set out to save a helplessly naïve family threatened by a rapacious landlord and his ruthless nephew — on Christmas Eve 1910 — in “My Three Angels,” a comedy that closes Nov. 29 at Schools present the Whidbey Playhouse, 730 S.E. Midway winter concerts Blvd., Oak Harbor.

A number of winter performances are Two murderers and a swindler have planned by student groups from schools in been sent by the local penal colony to the Anacortes School District.

• Mount Erie Mustang Singers perform repair the family’s roof and get involved in their life. The play is based on the Humat the Chamber of Commerce Tree Lightphrey Bogart film “We’re No Angels.” ing Ceremony Dec. 4, and at the AnaTickets are $16. Call (360) 679-2237 or cortes parks department’s Santa Breakfast visit www.whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Dec. 5.

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

the Nutcracker. Angus McLane returns as Herr Drosselmeyer and Niah Bystrom is the crafty Mouse King. The ballet is supThis delightful chorus of seniors from ported with spectacular lighting and stage the Shelter Bay community in La Conner returns for another delightful holiday con- effects by Dave Wright.

“The Kingdom of Snow scene in Act I is cert at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 in the Senior breathtaking, and Act II’s divertissements Activity Center. The program features a wonderful mix of traditional, classical and and grand pas de deux are as bold and contemporary holiday favorites. Bring your exciting as ever,” Bishop said.

Adult tickets are $15-25, with discounts friends! There is no charge. for children, students, seniors and groups.

For McIntyre Hall tickets call (360) 416TAG play is a Dickens 7727 or visit www.mcintyrehall.org. For of a farce “Inspecting Carol,” a holiday farce, will Mount Baker Theatre tickets call (360) 734-6080 or visit www.mountbakerthebe presented Dec. 4-19 by Theatre Arts atre.com.

Guild and the Lincoln Theatre.

For information about Northwest Take a struggling theater company putting on a tired production of “A Christmas Ballet’s other events, performances and ongoing classes go to www.northwestbalCarol,” then add a really bad actor and let.org or call (360) 714-1246. a visiting inspector from the National Endowment for the Arts and you get this Bands perform holiday off-the-wall holiday farce. concert at Brodniak In order to hold onto their funding, the The Skagit Community Band prescompany does everything possible to keep ents a combined concert with the North the “inspector” happy, including casting Cascades Concert Band at 3 p.m. Sunhim in their production and letting him day, Dec. 6 at Anacortes High School’s rewrite large sections of Dickens’ story.

Brodniak Hall. Each band will play a set of When the real inspector shows up, the pieces and then combine on a few works, company is forced to perform what can charitably be called the worst production said Dave Akland of the Skagit Community Band. of the classic ever. Bad theater has never “The combined concert bands will been so much fun. surely be a memorable experience for all,” Northwest Ballet presents he said.

This performance replaces the band’s ‘Nutcracker’ traditional appearance at Bellis Fair Mall, Expect dazzling choreography, beauhe said. tiful sets and costuming and exciting characters at the Northwest Ballet’s preChorale presents sentation of “The Nutcracker Ballet,” 7:30 Handel’s Messiah p.m. Dec. 4 and 5 at McIntyre Hall, 2501 The Northwest Chorale, directed by E. College Way, Mount Vernon, and Dec. Lynn Hall, will perform Handel’s Messiah 9-13 at Mount Baker Theatre. at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, at Emmanuel Award-winning choreographer John Baptist Church, 1515 E. College Way, Bishop creates a far away land with mystery and magic at every step, with talented Mount Vernon. Admission is free, but a artists and some of the most beautiful mu- good-will offering will be taken to benefit local food banks. sic ever written. The production is a treat The concert features soprano Kathy Barfor the whole family.

The ballet features guest artist Mahomi low, alto Emily Lunde, tenor Paul Karaitis, bass Michael Drumheller and the Starry Endoh of the Alberta Ballet in Calgary as Clara and Bellingham’s Seth Weatherby as Night Chamber Orchestra of Mount Vergoskagit.com

ARTS EVENTS non. This tremendously popular oratorio has become an essential holiday tradition, encompassing the whole of human experience — hope and fulfillment, sacrifice and death, resurrection and redemption.

For more information or a map, visit www.nwchorale.org or call (206) 5229853.

Skagit Valley Chorale heralds Christmas

The Skagit Valley Chorale, an adult choir of mixed voices under the direction of conductor Janet Skones Hitt, performs a special selection of sacred and secular holiday music at its annual Heralding Christmas concerts 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Wednesday features special ticket prices, $10-$20, the chorale’s holiday gift to the community.

Sunday’s tickets are $16-$25. Discounts and special needs seating are available through the box office.

Playhouse, Ballet Slipper offer ‘Nutcracker’

The Whidbey Playhouse and The Ballet Slipper present “The Nutcracker Ballet” Dec. 11-13 and 18-20 at the theater, 730 S.E. Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor.

Watch as The Nutcracker comes to life, he and his band of soldiers rise to defend Clara, and the Mouse King leads his mice into battle. Clara and the Prince travel to a world where dancing Snowflakes greet them and fairies and queens dance, welcoming Clara and the Prince into their world or when they arrive at the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. There is something to capture the imagination of anyone who sees this delightful fairy tale ballet, choreographed by Diane Geragotelis and performed by many students from the Ballet Slipper and performers from the Whidbey Playhouse.

Tickets $10-$15. Contact the Playhouse at (360) 679-2237 or office@whidbeyplayhouse.com.

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Dance academy’s ‘Nutcracker’ is Dec. 11-12

Create a family tradition and embark on a journey with young Clara, whose dreams take her through wild adventures where her toys come to life, in Skagit Valley Academy of Dance’s “The Nutcracker Ballet.”

Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Ticket prices to be determined by Skagit Valley Academy of Dance. For more information visit www. skagitvalleyacademyofdance.com.

See Santa at McIntyre Holiday Open House

McIntyre Hall continues its holiday tradition of offering a free Holiday Open House sponsored in part by the Children’s Museum at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 12 at the venue, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. There will be activities, entertainment, a visit from Santa and something for the entire family.

The Journeys give annual Christmas show

overwhelming popular demand at 7 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 21.

The Celtic ensemble’s 31st annual Celebrate the joy of Christmas with Bronn and Katherine Journey at their 28th Celtic Yuletide concert combines lush and gorgeous Celtic-flavored holiday music annual Christmas concert at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 21 at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College with singing, dancing, juggling, caroling, storytelling and more. The multitalented Way, Mount Vernon. Bronn delights with the shimmering sounds of the harp and his Boulding family and friends perform friendly and folksy style. Katherine charms on Celtic harps, hammered dulcimers, violins, cello, whistles and concertina. as she sings the captivating classics of Christmas such as “O Holy Night” and “Si- The music of the season is as joyful as it lent Night.” Tickets are $18-$20. For more is mystical, haunting and timeless. Joining information visit www.bronnjourney.com. the musicians are the Raney Irish Dancers, juggler virtuoso Thomas Arthur, vocalists Mark and Colleen Raney and Irish Enjoy traditional flute player Hanz Araki.

Celtic Yuletide festival Celtic Yuletide with the Magical Strings, a joyous festival of music and dance returns to the Lincoln Theatre by

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Fidalgo Youth Symphony’s Holiday Concert is 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18 at the Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church, 1511 E. Broadway, Mount Vernon. The concert will feature holiday pieces in an intimate setting, including chamber music by several subgroups of our symphony.

For more information contact music director Sharyn Peterson at (360) 421-2527 or www.fysmusic.org.

Celebrate the season with Skagit Symphony

The Skagit Symphony celebrates this special season with a holiday concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, $22-$35. A pre-concert lecture about the music begins at 6:45 p.m.

The symphony will perform Bach’s “Magnificat,” highlights from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” and holiday favorites. The audience is also encouraged to join in a special seasonal sing-along.

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November 25, 2009

11

A new twist on Christmas tree I

t’s about giving a holiday season event to the community, giving to the community health screening program, and then turning around and giving to the community again.

“Home for the Holidays 2009,” the third annual Celebration of Trees, aims to give Anacortes a place to celebrate the holiday season with a free display of up to a dozen creatively decorated trees, entertainment, hot cocoa, cookies and craft-making 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Port of Anacortes’ main warehouse.

With a wine and appetizer reception in conjunction with a silent and live auction from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, event sponsor Island Hospital Foundation will raise funds for its health screening program.

But the trees themselves will continue to provide gifts after the event is over. By encouraging the local businesses, organizations and individuals sponsoring and decorating the trees to go a little nontraditional this year, organizers Colleen Craig and Kathryn Rogers hope to get some special variations on the traditional Christmas tree.

The new twist will allow auction bidders the opportunity to take their tree home or donate it to a charitable organization.

With this economy, people want to give money that will provide a further purpose, Craig said. So not only will funds be raised for the health screening program, but trees

T La Conner Making Spirits Bright

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will be decorated with items that can go to local organizations.

Nick Chahley, Anacortes Walgreens manager, came up with an idea that best suits his company for giving — durable medical supplies.

Chahley plans to build his tree with items such as shower chairs, raised toilet seat high-end walkers, transport chairs and blood pressure cuffs decorated with lights and garland. The normal retail price of the items ranges from approximately $30 to $160.

Chahley said he has the OK to donate at least $1,000 worth of items.

The Walgreens tree will be on display at the Celebration of Trees event and then disassembled. But the medical equipment will be set aside to eventually go to a community member whose insurance doesn’t pay for or who doesn’t have the money to purchase the items themselves.

“We tried to come up with something good for the community but fit with what we are as a business,” Chahley said.

Staff at Island Hospital will help Walgreens and Walgreens Option Care staff figure out who in the community can best use each item, Chahley said. And Walgreens wil provide someone to deliver the items and make sure they are set up correctly.

“We’ve taken a large stance of becoming more community oriented,” Chahley said. “It’s a good opportunity to give back to the hospital and give products people need instead of a Christmas tree.”

Other sponsors and decorators plan to build their trees from books, cupcakes and more, Craig said.

“The idea is we’re creating something visually interesting,” she said.

This year’s event also changes the emphasis to being more for community

T

By Joan Pringle Staff writer

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members of any age, Craig said. And hopefully it will attract classrooms of kids and eople from senior living facilities.

“We want there to be something of interest for everybody,” Craig said.

Community hours will include live entertainment by the Anacortes High School and, Fidalgo Elementary School carolers and the Enchanted Trees from Fidalgo DanceWorks.

Employees from the Shell Puget Sound Refinery will hold a Santa’s Workshop with ee projects for children. Free hot cocoa will be provided by Windermere Real Estate nd free cookies by John L. Scott Real Estate.

The warehouse itself will be decorated in accordance with the theme “Home for the Holidays” by Stacie Sutliff of Blush Custom Floral. Displays will look as if the viewer is utside looking in.

The admission price for the auction has been reduced from last year’s price of $50 o $35 out of respect to the economy and to open the event to more people, Craig aid.

The live auction will feature a wide variety of trees from sponsors, including The Market at Anacortes, Opulence Hair Salon and Island Hospital medical staff. The silent uction will include wreaths from Donatello, Dakota Creek Industries and more. Food will be provided by Gere-a-Deli.

Last year’s Celebration of Trees, “Winter Wonderland,” raised approximately 20,000 for the health screening program.

For more information on Home for the Holidays, tickets or sponsorship pportunities, call the Foundation office at 299-4201.

12/12 6:30pm

Quilt & Textile Museum, Holiday Tea.

La Conner Lighted Boat Parade, “A Northwest Christmas”

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2009at Anacortes holiday guide November 25, 2009

13

Nautical and Nice: Lighted Boat Parade Brightens the Season

By Joan Pringle Staff writer

W

hat would Christmas in Anacortes be without a lighted boat parade down the Guemes Channel?

Well, a little like the past two years.

Due to the severe December 2008 weather, organizers had to cancel the event the day before it was to happen.

The same thing occurred in 2007.

Though the boats got to show off their stuff at the Cap Sante Boat Haven, they didn’t get to leave their slips.

But with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting a warmer and dryer than average winter this year for Puget Sound due to El Niño, the parade has a higher chance of floating than other years.

The parade is scheduled to start at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 at the marina with a captains briefing 4 to 4:30 p.m. at the Nordic Northwest office in

the harbormaster’s building.

Once again Greg Mustari is in charge of the event and can be contacted at gregm@nordicnw.com or 293-9411.

The Port of Anacortes will provide free slips for participants so their boats can be on display ahead of the parade.

The parade is open to anyone who wants to be there, but all boats must have holiday decorations, Mustari said.

The boats leaving the marina will head west down the Guemes Channel, making a U-turn at the Washington State Ferries terminal to return.

“The event will be judged and a get-together will be held on Island Adventures’ boat after the parade,” Mustari said. “This will be a fun event.”

Parade sign-up sheets are available at Nordic Northwest, Island Adventures, the harbormaster’s office and at the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce.

Confused about Christmas? Kids ar e n ’t !

How do reindeer fly?

I think Santa uses little collars with bells that make them fly.

Sarah Clifford, 8 Anacortes

What do Santa and the elves do right after delivering toys?

Probably go back and make more toys.

Elves only sleep about 45 minutes a day.

Coleman Peterson, 11 Anacortes

14

2009 Anacortes holiday guide

What do you leave for Santa on Christmas Eve? Frosted cookies.

Gabe Eilertsen, 5 Anacortes

What would you name the 10th reindeer?

Sparkle.

Macy Koegel, 4 Anacortes

How does Santa get around the Why do people hang up world in one night? stockings on Christmas Eve?

November 25, 2009

Some sort of jet power on the sleigh.

Cabry Biddle, 8 Anacortes

To put toys in.

Michelle Vander Schuur, 3 Anacortes

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November 25, 2009

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

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Nutcracker Ballet

By Elaine Walker News editor

E

llie the Elf, the Sugarplum Fairy and other graceful and adorable creatures sure to enchant the whole family will dance at “Winter Celebration” and “The Nutcracker Ballet,” Fidalgo DanceWorks’ two holiday presentations.

Dancers also will provide entertainment at Island Hospital’s Festival of Trees Dec. 4 and 5 and at the Senior Activity Center’s annual Santa Breakfast Dec. 5, said DanceWorks Director Glynna Goff-Eloe.

“Winter Celebration” features non-ballet students, from tots to seniors, who will perform jazz, tap, hip-hop and more at the Dec. 5 performance. Admission is $5.

“It’s a lighthearted holiday show,” Goff-Eloe said. “It’s a perfect thing to take your family to.”

Ballet students will perform the full “Nutcracker” ballet Dec. 12 and 13. The studio has continued its tradition of enhancing the production each year, aided by growth in the ballet program.

“Our top-level girls are probably the best since I’ve been here,” she said.

There will be more action for younger dancers as well.

“We’re expanding the production to include more dancers and we’re doing a whole new battle scene,” she said.

Community members also will take a turn in the spotlight.

“Rick Sohn is going to be our Drosselmeyer and Trey Hatch is going to be our Mother Ginger. Roxy and Bob Seligman will be Clara’s parents,” Goff-Eloe said.

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This year a new background drop will make its debut, thanks to fundraising efforts by dancers’ families. The lead artist on the project is Ruby Tanaka.

“We’re trying to build an expanded production and the parents paid for an Act 2 drop of the Land of Sweets,” Goff-Eloe said.

Fidalgo DanceWorks’ “Winter Celebration” is 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 at Island View Elementary School’s theater.

Admission is $5.

Performances of “The Nutcracker Ballet” are 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 at Anacortes High School’s Brodniak Hall. Tickets are $10-$15 and may be purchased at the door, at 299-8447 or at the dance studio, 901 Third St.

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Tickets: $35.00 each. For more information or tickets call 299-4201.

Free Community Days Fri, Dec. 4th: 10:00 am-7:00 pm Sat, Dec. 5th: 9:00 am-12:00 pm Fun for the whole family!

Shell PSR presents Santa’s Workshop, Hot Cocoas thanks to Windermere, Cookie booth thanks to John L. Scott, performances by Fidalgo Elementary’s Choir (5pm), Anacortes HS Band members, and “Enchanted Trees” dance performance (4:45 & 5:15 pm).

Get your pictures with Santa and much more!

2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

19

Holiday Artwalk

By Elaine Walker News editor

A

s soon as the carols have been sung, the community’s Christmas tree has been lit and the hot cider and cocoa has warmed the crowd, the holiday shopping season kicks into high gear downtown with the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce Holiday Artwalk.

The Artwalk begins at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4. Held in conjunction with the First Friday Gallery Walk, it continues until 9 p.m. Friday and resumes 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

This enticing opportunity to “buy close by” features more than two dozen local galleries and downtown merchants, who offer the work of local artists and plenty of fine holiday wares — paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photographs, music and treats. There will also be a first-ever “Book Walk” featuring local authors.

Highlights include Scott Milo Gallery’s show of pastels and acrylics by Joel Brock, photographs by Dick Garvey, Randy Dana and Lewis Jones, Jennifer Bowman acrylics, jewelry by Enid Oates and oils and pastels by Amanda Houston, and the popular annual “Petite Pieces” show at Insights Gallery, which features small works by gallery artists including Alfred Currier, Anne Schreivogl, Ramona Hammerly and Michael Moe. A host of Commercial Avenue retailers feature dozens of artists: • Opulence Salon — photographs of Mexico by Tim Dussault.

• Texture Gallery — mixed media by Gregory Kargel, oils by Jo Anderson and oils by Paula Anderson.

• Buers Floral & Gift — paintings by Darlene Dubb.

• Ana-Cross Stitch — fabric art.

• Epicure — table top decorating.

• Anne Martin McCool Studio — paintings and prints by McCool, jewelry by Debbie Aldrich, Carole Cun-

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A-Deli and Johnny Picasso’s — mixed media by local artists.

• Red Snapper — jewelry by Laura Ferguson and knitted pieces by Annie Norton.

• 418 Studios above Scott Milo — oils and acrylics by Paula Anderson and oils by Jo Anderson.

• Maison et Jardin — beaded serving pieces by Debbie Collins and folk art by Krys Kirkpatrick.

• The Business — musician Ben Boatright.

• The Rockfish Grill — oils by Carol Dolgoff.

• Anchor Art Space — drawings and sculpture by Jean Behnke.

Off the main drag is Ryan Chanel Hair, 915 Seventh St., and the Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave. —mixed media by local artists; Bowman Gallery, 801 Fifth St. — photographs by Marius Hibbard; and That Photo Shoppe, 1005 Fifth St. — photographs by Leslie Dorn and John Holtman.

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ningham and Kathleen Faulkner, and clay sculpture by Teri Silva.

• Donatello — floral design by Danise Reichlin.

• Burton Jewelers — paintings by Jacqueline DeGavia and natural colored diamonds.

• Keystone Center and Earthbound Used Books — Gustavo Vargas oil paintings, mixed media by Mykki Slivinski, Native art by Mary Snowden, acrylics and oils by Malka Goldenwolf, mixed media by Lorraine Beegle, and appearances by author Laura Lavigne and Irish musicians.

• Elisabeth’s Cottage — mixed media by local artists.

• Al’s Gallery of Small Sculptures behind Keystone Center — Caveman Al’s miniature sculptures.

• Red Salon — Kelsey Ekstrom’s The Unwrapped Collection.

• 2Q Nails — Ann Hoang’s holiday nail art.

• Watermark Book Co., Adrift, Gere-

2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

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Buy a tree and build your community

By Joan Pringle Staff writer

O

h Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree, where can I find the best deal around?

Well, if you’re in Anacortes, you have two excellent choices that will not only get you a tree, but will help out the community in turn.

Both the Anacortes Kiwanis Sunrisers and the Anacortes Eagles will continue their tradition of selling fresh Christmas trees at local hardware stores.

Kiwanis will have their usual display in the parking lot of Sebo’s Do-It Best Center, 14th and Commercial Avenue.

Organizer Walt Jensen said it appears the first delivery of trees will allow the members to start selling on Saturday, Nov. 28.

Say

The selection this year will not only include the typical Dougles, Fraser and noble firs in various sizes, but new this year will be the Shasta fir, which is similar to a noble but much bluer in color, Jensen says. Another addition is the Nordman fir, which was originally grown in Russia.

Though the exact prices of the trees haven’t been figured out yet, Jensen said they’ll generally be less expensive than last year.

Kiwanians will be selling them from about 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until they run out, which usually happens a few days before Christmas.

The money raised from the sales goes primarily to kids, Jensen said. Organizations include the Boys and Girls Club and Boy Scouts with a few senior groups thrown in there too.

“We spend it very wisely,” Jensen said.

“Plus we have a wonderful time doing it.”

The Eagles sell their trees through Ace Hardware’s garden center at 1720 Q Ave. Organizer Steve Knutsen said it’s hard to tell when they’ll get their first delivery, but they plan to start selling on Tuesday, Dec. 1 no matter what up until Christmas Eve. Ace handles all the money for the club so that means trees can be purchased with credit and debit cards. Hours are anytime the store is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Ace co-owner Randy Burgess is a longtime Eagle member, Knutsen said, and helping with the tree sales is how he contributes to the club.

The club will have various sizes of trees and a few different varieties, including Douglas and noble fir, in a wide price range.

Profits from the sale of trees goes to the local Eagles Aerie 249 and Ladies Auxiliary charitable programs.

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November 25, 2009

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Calendar of Events Sunday, Nov. 29

• Advent wreath candle lighting is 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Celebrate the season of advent and the coming of the Savior.

• Angel Breakfast for kids and families is 10 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1300 Ninth St. Children are invited to celebrate the start of Advent with the angels. Kids will stop by the stable to have their pictures taken and enjoy some “heavenly treats,” among other activities. Children are encouraged to attend dressed as an angel. Call 293-3880.

Thursday, Dec. 3

• A women’s Christmas dessert is 6:30 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1300 Ninth St. It includes specially decorated tables, a devotional speaker and a mission component. Tickets are $7 through Nov. 30 and $10 in December.

Get them at the church office. Call 2933880.

• Santa’s Cause for the Paws returns, offering photos of your dog(s) and Santa 6-8 p.m. at 1004 12th St., suite 103 (behind the Fidalgo Bay Coffee stand). Proceeds benefit a new fund being set up in memory of Charlie Randall. Call Amy at

588-8749 or email: charliescritterfund@ noon to 3 p.m. at 1004 12th St., suite yahoo.com.

103. Proceeds benefit a new fund being set up in memory of Charlie Randall. Call Friday, Dec. 4 Amy at 588-8749 or email: charliescrit• Shelter Bay’s chorus will perform a terfund@yahoo.com. holiday concert 1 p.m. at the Anacortes • Breakfast with Santa is 8-11:30 Senior Activity Center. a.m. at the Senior Activity Center. En• Celebration of Trees “Home for the joy a pancake breakfast, entertainment, Holidays” 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The event art projects and a visit with the jolly old raises money for Island Hospital Founda- elf himself. The event will also include a tion’s health screenings. performance by Fidalgo DanceWorks.

• Anacortes Chamber of Commerce’s Cost is $3. Purchase tickets at the AnaCommunity Tree Lighting ceremony is 5- cortes Parks and Recreation Department.

7 p.m. at 819 Commercial Ave. The event Call 293-1918 or e-mail nicolej@cityofafeatures the town crier, Santa Claus and nacortes.org. performances by students from Anacortes • Anacortes Lions Club’s annual High School and Fidalgo and Island View Christmas Parade is 11 a.m., with setup elementary schools. Hot cocoa and cook- at 10 a.m., on Commercial Avenue. ies will be provided by the American Red • Celebration of Trees “Home for the Cross. Get a free picture with Santa after Holidays” 9 a.m. to noon. An appetizer the lighting. and wine reception and live auction of • Holiday Artwalk is 6-9 p.m. down- the dozen Christmas trees decorated by town Anacortes.

Anacortes businesses and individuals is • Northwest Ballet presents “The Nut- 5-7:30 p.m. Cost is $35. cracker” 7:30 p.m. at McIntyre Hall in • Get a free photo with Santa noon to Mount Vernon. Call (360) 416-7727 or 5 p.m. at Walgreens. visit www.mcintyrehall.org.

• Holiday Artwalk is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. downtown.

Saturday, Dec. 5 • St. Mary Catholic Church silent auc• Santa’s Cause for the Paws returns, tion and dinner is 6:30 p.m. at the Faoffering photos of your dog(s) and Santa ther Auer Center, 4001 St. Mary’s Drive.

The event is catered. Tickets are $20 per person and are available after weekend Masses.

• Fidalgo DanceWorks presents “Winter Celebration,” a festive mix of hip-hop, tap and modern dance 3 p.m. at Island View Elementary School. Call 299-8447 or e-mail dance@fidalgodanceworks. org.

• Northwest Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” 7:30 p.m. at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon. Call (360) 416-7727 or visit www.mcintyrehall.org.

Sunday, Dec. 6

• Advent wreath candle lighting is 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Celebrate the season of Advent and the coming of the Savior.

• The Skagit Community Band presents a combined concert with the North Cascades Concert Band 3 p.m. at Anacortes High School’s Brodniak Hall.

• The Northwest Chorale will perform Handel’s Messiah 3 p.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1515 E. College Way, Mount Vernon.

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

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Calendar of Events Tuesday, Dec. 8

• Contemplative Advent Meditation Service for those who desire to slow the pace and find a place of rest during the stress of the holidays is 7 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1300 Ninth St. Call 293-3880. Â

Friday, Dec. 11

• The Skagit Valley Academy of Dance presents “The Nutcrackerâ€? 7:30 p.m. at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon. Call (360) 416-7727 or visit www.mcintyrehall.org.

Saturday, Dec. 12

• Christmas tea featuring a variety of gourmet teas from around the world, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment is 2-4 p.m. at Chandler’s Square Retirement Community, 1300 O Ave. There is no cost and reservations are required. Call 293-1300. • Fidalgo DanceWorks presents “The Nutcrackerâ€? 7 p.m. at Anacortes High School’s Brodniak Hall. Call 299-8447 or e-mail dance@fidalgodanceworks.org. • The Skagit Valley Academy of Dance presents “The Nutcrackerâ€? 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon. Call (360) 416-7727 or visit www. mcintyrehall.org.

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Sunday, Dec. 13

• Advent wreath candle lighting is 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Celebrate the season of Advent and the coming of the Savior. • The Art of Christmas, a Christmas art show, will be presented by the children and youth at 10 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1300 Ninth St. Call 293-3880. Free and open to the public. • Fidalgo DanceWorks presents “The Nutcrackerâ€? 3 p.m. at Anacortes High School’s Brodniak Hall. Call 299-8447 or e-mail dance@fidalgodanceworks.org • The Skagit Valley Chorale presents “Heralding Christmasâ€? 2 p.m. at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon. Call (360) 4167727 or visit www.mcintyrehall.org.

Friday, Dec. 18

• “The Nativity Story,â€? a movie for all ages, will be shown 6:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Eat dinner before or bring a brown bag dinner. The movie is free, but donations of hats, gloves, mittens or scarves to share with the foster kids of Skagit County through We Do For Kids would be appreciated. Popcorn and drinks provided.

• The Skagit Symphony celebrates this special season with a holiday concert 7:30 p.m. at McIntyre Hall, in Mount Vernon. Call (360) 416-7727 or visit www.mcintyrehall.org.

Monday, Dec. 21

• Bronn and Katherine Journey’s 28th annual Christmas concert is 7:30 p.m. at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon. Tickets start at $18. Call (360) 416-7727 or visit www.mcintyrehall.org.

Saturday, Dec. 19 • Celtic Yuletide with the Magical • Annual lighted boat parade is sched- Strings, a joyous festival of music and uled to start at 5 p.m. along Guemes dance, returns to the Lincoln Theatre at Channel. Boats form a line in Fidalgo Bay 7 p.m. outside of Cap Sante Boat Haven. Event is subject to weather. To sign up contact Thursday, Dec. 24 organizer Greg Mustari at gregm@nor• Family Christmas Eve candlelight dicnw.com or 293-9411. service is 5:30 p.m. at Westminster Pres• Celebrate the special season with byterian Church. Join with children of all the orchestra performing Bach’s Mag- ages as they celebrate Jesus’ birth with nificat, highlights of Tchaikovsky’s Nut- carols, candles, communion and scripcracker and holiday favorites at “Holiday ture. Special time with children during Concertâ€? 7:30 p.m. at McIntyre Hall in the service.

Mount Vernon. Call (360) 416-7727 or • Christmas Eve candlelight and comvisit www.mcintyrehall.org. munion service is 10 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church. A traditional service Sunday, Dec. 20 with special music, carols, candlelight • Advent wreath candle lighting is and communion.

8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Celebrate Sunday, Dec. 27 the season of Advent and the coming of • Watch Veggie Tales’ “St. Nicholasâ€? the Savior. movie at 10 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1300 Ninth St. Keep the spirit of Christmas alive and enjoy this new film from Veggie Tales. Call 293-3880.

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

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2009 Anacortes holiday guide

November 25, 2009

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