Women in Business - 2019 Women in Business

WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2019

Published by The Islands’ Sounder

Page 2

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

Giving the gift of hearing to island residents

by Jessica Stahl

Sounder contributor

Feelings of great joy, relief, anticipation and even trepidation may accompany the return of something once lost to us.

For Doctor of Audiology Stacie Nordrum, the special part of her work-day is inspiring a shift in her

patients’ perspective on their hearing loss, and building positive feelings for their futures.

“When I feel that I have been successful in inspiring excitement about treating hearing loss: that’s special,” said Nordrum. “I have definitely seen people begin to return to previously enjoyed activities (such as

church, meetings, social events) that were avoided because of hearing difficulty. I love the shift from focusing on a hearing loss over to the viewpoint of ‘I want to be more connected and engaged in my life.’”

Nordrum is the owner of the independent hearing clinic Island Hearing Healthcare in Friday Harbor. She established her clinic in 2006, after earning a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Western Washington University in 2002, and a Doctor of Audiology degree from Northwestern University in 2006.

Nordrum’s mother, who has hearing loss, was the first to suggest audiology as a field for Nordrum to explore.

“In graduate school, I became very interested in emerging hearing aid technology,” said Nordrum.

“The Doctor of Audiology program at Northwestern University encouraged a focus on research concurrently with clinical practice and theoretical fundamen-

Contributed photo

At left: Dr. Stacie Nordrum of Island Hearing Healthcare.

tals. I was able to work with the engineering departments at several major hearing aid manufacturers to learn how technology is developed and released to the public.”

Owning her clinic allows Nordrum to continue pursuing her interests in hearing aid technology. She has the freedom to choose from any of the latest technologies and developed her own

acclimatization program that she can customize for individual patients.

She is a fellow of the American Academy of Audiology and holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence with the American Speech Language Hearing Association.

Island Hearing’s main office is in Friday Harbor.

Weekly visits are made to Orcas Island and monthly visits to Lopez Island.

Home visits are available upon request on all three islands.

“What sparks my interest now is anticipating each new major release of technology,” said Nordrum. “I am passionate about helping people stay connected, and to help those living with hearing loss overcome obstacles to communication and connection.”

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Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Page 3

An interview with Grace McCune

by Colleen Smith

P

Denise Thomasin photo

Editor/Publisher

ianist and vocalist Grace McCune was raised in a family of musicians and entertainers. Her father was Don McCune, a Seattle icon in broadcasting, star of KOMO TV’s “Captain Puget Show” and host, writer and narrator of “Exploration Northwest.”

He passed away in 1993.

After traveling the country as a singer-songwriter, McCune settled on Orcas Island, where she released two studio albums and began teaching voice 12 years ago. Some of her original students are still with her today. She started her business in her home before opening Grace Notes Studio at 434 Madrona Street in Eastsound nearly seven years ago.

“There is nothing more important to me than playing music every day for a living,” says McCune.

In 2008, she started the Rock on the Rock choirs, a chance for kids and adults to learn music in a group setting. A few years later McCune joined forces with Jake Perrine and the two have produced such shows as “Moulin Rouge,” “Across the Universe,” “Rock of Orcas” and “Cirque-Us,” all featuring a multi-generational cast of dozens of islanders.

McCune has limited openings in her current teaching schedule, but she has brought on three musical instrument instructors: her brother Clint McCune (acoustic guitar), Joel Gamble (violin and viola) and Stephen Fairweather (piano). To inquire about availability, email grace@ gracemccune.com.

How did you become a voice teacher?

I wanted to make a living on Orcas Island and be a musician. On a deeper level, it was to share music with people young and old. It was part of my childhood and my entire life.

If you go back and tell something to the Grace of 12 years ago, what would it be?

Pursuing music as a living was a dream I had as a child.

It’s had many different faces over the years. I’d tell her to keep pursuing and keep showing up. It’s not performing but it has its own set of rewards and it’s all worth it. My students become part of my family. We are a part of each other’s lives. Music is the medium for us being there but what happens on a core human level is like a therapy session. For many of the kids, I’m like a cool aunt

At left: Grace McCune.

who likes to sing!

How have you changed since starting your business?

I’ve become a better singer and musician as a result of teaching. When you explain the mechanics of someone’s voice it means I explore my own process and my own methods. I use the principles of my training but everyone learns at a different level. You wouldn’t teach a 6-year-old the way you’d teach a 26-year-old. I’ve also become a more patient and compassionate person.

What would you tell people who are intrigued by learning to sing or play an instrument but are apprehensive?

It’s never too late to learn.

A lot of people hold back because they think missed their shot as a kid. It does take time to learn but everyone gets nervous learning something new. The key is to find a good teacher you connect with otherwise you won’t be inspired. And it’s ok to just try it out and see how it goes, too!

How did the Rock on the Rock choirs begin?

Orcas Center asked me to direct a kids’ choir for a small show. Deborah Sparks sat me down and said, “Hey, I think you’d be really good at this.” In high school, it was actually something I thought I might do for a living. Then I decided to expand to bring in adults. It’s become a beautiful excuse for people to come together and sing.

It naturally grew over the years. “Les Miserables” was the first big body of work

we did. My original and true love is musical theatre. Jake Perrine hopped on board and then we revolutionized choir!

What is one of your fondest memories on this journey as a teacher?

One of the defining moments for me was when

Jake and I had just teamed up for Moulin Rouge, our first show together in 2014.

It was a week before opening night and the choir was rehearsing. At one point, the women presented “Lady Marmalade.” Then the guys showed everyone “Diamond Dogs.” We were all sitting in a circle sharing with each other. Time slowed down, I looked around the room and every person had a smile on their face and was cheering each other on. No matter how many hours it takes and how many sleepless nights we have, I realized: Jake and I need to always keep facilitating this.

Who is your musical inspiration?

My father. What he did and who he was on television were the same as who he was in real life. He was kind and compassionate. At his memorial, my brothers and I performed “Leader of the Band.” There is a line, “The leader of the band is tired and his eyes are growing old/But his blood runs through my instrument and his song is in my soul,” and that’s what I think of. I can hear his voice through my voice. He’s still there.

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Page 4

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

San Juan County mothers welcome midwives

At left: Cynthia Jaffe. Above: Diane Miller.

by Heather Spaulding

T

Staff reporter

he small red building on Nichols Street that has housed a vast array of businesses is now home to a midwifery: the Greenbank Birth Center.

“We have been seeing San Juan County women for a long time,” said co-owner Diane Miller, a licensed and

certified professional midwife.

The center, originally opened by licensed midwife Cynthia Jaffe in 1991 on Whidbey Island, had an office briefly on Orcas and has maintained a space in Anacortes for the past 25 years. Now, the midwives come to Friday Harbor every other Wednesday.

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island women business owners who enrich and inspire us every day!

Jaffe explained on the Greenbank website how she got into midwifery: “My love affair with midwifery and birth began when I was pregnant with my first child. I had a good friend who was also pregnant and someone sent her this crazy book she was eager to share with me. It was ‘Spiritual Midwifery’ … [and it] said, not only can birth be spiritually moving and fulfilling, it can be fun! I cried when I read it. … While I cannot say it was fun, phrases from the book came back to me when I needed them and helped me so much. The birth of my son in 1984 changed my life. I felt empowered by his birth.”

Since opening nearly 30

years ago, Jaffe said in the bio, she has helped deliver over 1,800 babies.

The response has been overwhelming since its opening at the beginning of September, according to Miller. Women have come from all the islands to visit the new location. Should that trend continue, Miller and Jaffe may consider expanding the hours to once a week.

“Island women are strong, resilient and highly independent. They often opt for a natural birth, therefore midwifery is a good fit,” Miller said.

Having not only previously lived on Shaw Island but also given birth to four of her children during that time, Miller knows first-

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hand the unique situation of island mothers. She noted that the Whidbey location often resonates with San Juan County mothers due to its rural nature. Greenbank’s headquarters is located on a secluded 5-acre property.

Jaffe recommends traveling to Whidbey as the birth date approaches and staying as long as necessary.

The midwives realize that isn’t always an option, however, due to finances and the uncertainty of when a mother will go into labor.

“Things don’t always go according to plan,” Jaffe said, “but ideally, that is what we would like to have happen.”

Some of the benefits of a midwife are that they provide more control over the birthing situation and allow

mothers to make more of their own choices.

“Some things are not totally up to them,” Miller said, adding that what Greenbank provides information and education so parents can understand the array of options and make informed decisions.

Hospitals, she noted, often treat every pregnancy as a high risk. She said they don’t usually give families the flexibility they require, and hospital doctors often aren’t as personal as the small private midwifery.

“We are there with the mothers throughout the whole pregnancy,” Miller said. “We really get to know the women and their families personally.”

One popular option at Greenbank is water birth, wherein the baby is born while the mother is resting in warm water.

“Warm water is relaxing and often acts as a pain reliever,” Jaffe explained.

“We often jokingly call it the midwife epidural.”

Once a mother has tried a water birth, she usually opts for it during her next pregnancy, she said.

Regardless of the decisions made by the expecting mom, Miller said she carries a soft spot in her heart for islanders and hopes they choose to come to Greenbank.

“I really understand the moms living out there and their unique needs,” Miller said. “I love taking care of them. They are so special to me.”

Greenbank offers a nocost meet-and-greet for mothers and families wishing to explore their alternatives. For more information about Greenbank Birthing Center, visit https://greenbankbirthcenter.com.

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Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Taking nothing for granted

by Diane Craig

O

Staff reporter

ne of our most basic rights as Americans is the right to vote.

As we prepare our annual Women in Business section, I’m reminded of just how recently women have had that right in this country. And how tenable that right is. After all, there was a time in our country’s early days when women could vote. Blacks, too. However, as we formalized our status as a young nation, states started rescinding the right to vote.

Women in New York lost that right in 1777; Massachusetts in 1780; New Hampshire in 1784; and, in 1787 when the U.S. Constitutional Convention placed voting rights in the hands of the states, women were stripped of their right to cast ballots in all states except New Jersey.

In fact, in 1790, New Jersey granted voting rights to “all free inhabitants,” including women. That freedom lasted until 1807 when New Jersey became the last state to revoke a woman’s right to vote.

While a few states were granting women the right to vote in local elections, it wasn’t until the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920 when women across the country were allowed to vote in all elections. And let’s be clear about that: it was white women who were enfranchised, not all women.

Native American women were allowed to vote in 1924 with the passage of the

Indian Citizenship Act. In 1943, Chinese immigrant women were granted that right under the Magnuson Act and in 1952, the right was extended to first-generation Japanese women as a result of the McCarranWalter Act. Shamefully, African American women did not get the full right to vote until 1964, when the 24th Amendment was ratified.

Without the right to vote, women were obviously barred from holding an elected office. That didn’t stop Victoria Woodhull’s run for U.S. president in 1872, however. In 1884, Belva Lockwood ran with Marietta Stow as her running mate, the first woman to run for vice-president.

It may come as a surprise to many that the first woman considered as a major party candidate was Oveta Hobby, who was encouraged to throw her millinery hat in the ring in 1960 by none other than President Dwight D. Eisenhower. She declined.

Margaret Chase Smith, however, in 1964 qualified for the ballot in six state primaries as a Republican candidate. In 1968, Charlene Mitchell became the first African American woman to run for president, qualifying in two states and, in 1972, Shirley Chisholm became the first black candidate and the first woman to run for the Democratic party’s nomination.

In the years since other women made attempts to run for the nation’s highest office. To date, none have succeeded.

As of this writing, next year’s presidential race has a record-breaking six women vying for the Democratic party’s nomination. Time, and votes, will tell if 2020 is the year the country makes history and elects its first woman president, a mere 148 years since Victoria Woodhull made her mark.

Where women have made great strides since 1920 is in Congress, both on state and national levels. As of Jan. 2019, 102 women hold the title of U.S. Representative representing 23.4 percent of the House.

Nationwide, women in state legislative positions increased from 24.9 percent in 2017 to 25.4 percent in 2019. Still, with women comprising more than 50 percent of the country’s population, equal representation falls quite short.

Stats for women in public office in the Evergreen State are impressive: Both of the state’s U.S. senators are women, and five out of the Washington’s 10 U.S. Representatives are women, placing the state fourth in gender parity.

Further, in 2018 and 2019 Washington doubled the number of women of color

in the state’s senate, making it the most diverse legislative body in Washington history.

Why do these numbers matter?

It’s not news that many of the rights women in America have enjoyed for decades are being diminished. From the accessibility of Planned Parenthood to insurance coverage of contraceptives to rates of infant mortality, we are losing ground.

According to the Washington Center for Equitable Growth, “the United States ranks 30th out of 33 member nations [of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development] in public spending on families and children which includes policies such as … parental leave benefits and childcare support … In terms of cash benefits, which provides parents the most flexibility in how to provide for their children, the United States ranks last.”

Additionally, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development notes that infant mortality in the U.S. claims 5.8 deaths per 1,000 live births, the highest rate among comparable countries. And, though we claim to have the best healthcare in the world, American life

access to birth control.

But with growing numbers of women in positions of authority, it becomes more difficult to ignore the issues and increases the opportunity for change.

And voting, or running for office, is a powerful way of ensuring the strides are protected.

Our hard-fought right to vote cannot be taken for granted. Voting (and running for office) is how Americans make our voices heard. These days, women need to roar.

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expectancy has dropped to 79 years, 26th among OECD countries.

Health policies, reproductive rights, childcare, education and economic justice remain issues of grave concern to most women in this country.

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Page 5

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Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Page 11

Brownell leaving school board after 19 years | Q&A A

fter 19 years on the Orcas Island School Board, Janet Brownell is stepping down.

Her last meeting is Oct. 24.

What is your professional background and when did you move to Orcas?

We moved here in 1996.

I was a screenwriter before and after I moved to Orcas.

When and why did you join the school board?

I’ve been on the board since 2000 (with two years off in 2005-6). I ran for the office because I fundamentally believe in the promise of public education.

I am a product of public education from kindergarten through college (University of California, Berkeley). I ran because of Mr. Hickman. He was the English teacher I had for three years in high school who not only taught me how to compose a well-crafted paragraph but believed in me when I couldn’t unlock that confidence myself.

But most of all I ran because of my mother.

Ada Brownell was a public-school teacher in Los Angeles for over 40 years.

She profoundly affected the lives of her students in the classroom, and outside of it.

She embodied that promise that public education holds out to every student.

How has serving on the board changed you? What have you learned?

Being on the board has given me the greatest appreciation for community.

There is the Orcas community, which consistently rises to the call of need through its support of our schools through levies, bonds and private giving. For that I am ever grateful.

There is also the school community: staff and administration. I have been through five superintendents, five elementary principals, two high school principals, two new schools (OASIS and Montessori Public), revolving school board members and many new teachers. I used to consider this change as slightly turbulent; now I see it as evolution. And that is the best of education: it does not stay stagnant, rather it stays dynamic — adjusting to ever-growing need.

What is your greatest accomplishment during your tenure?

Almost since I joined the board, I have been work-

ing to improve the physical condition of our campuses.

It has taken three bonds, almost 10 years and several phases — but I leave with the board with the district in exceptional condition. I hope everyone comes to visit the schools to see how they have invested in our islands’ children. I also believe that the current administrative team is outstanding. You should come visit with them as well.

What will you miss the most?

Vicki Clancy’s lovingly made corsage at graduation.

Where do you plan to volunteer next?

I am currently the President of the Orcas Island Education Foundation. I will stay on that board and continue to work for the schools.

My belief and support of the OISD does not end. I hope everyone knows how lucky we are to have such incredible staff and students on Orcas. It has been my absolute honor and pleasure to serve such a fine institution on the school board.

Now I will continue rais-

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ing money to add more enhancements for our students. Go to OIEF.org for more information or to donate ­— just saying.

Contributed photo

At right: Janet Brownell.

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Page 6

Building a home with wine and community T

by Diane Craig Staff reporter

era and Wesley Landman, new owners of Orcas Island Winery, arrived with their 2-year-old son Winston, at their new home this past

January.

They had quit their highprofile jobs in southern California and set out to the Crow Valley property excited about the future and ready to get to work.

Then the snows arrived.

Like much of the island,

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

the young family was snowbound in their home above the winery, unable to start the work that needed to get done.

“We could have seen it as a huge obstacle,” Tera said from the tasting room recently renovated with furniture from their California home. “Instead, I decided the island was trying to tell me something.

“The weather gave us the perfect opportunity to focus on family. We knew the schedule would get crazy-busy soon enough. The snow was wonderful and the very best thing that could have happened.

“It was beautiful.”

Once the snow melted, however, the Landmans rolled up their sleeves and got to work, eager to open the island’s only destination winery before the season started. In fact, Orcas Island Winery re-opened to the public, under their ownership, March 1 for weekend wine tastings.

Since that March opening, the visionary owners have poured themselves into the community, embraced the island, and bubble with excitement at the possibilities ahead.

The Landmans aren’t new to the Pacific Northwest.

For years they vacationed throughout Oregon and Washington and last year

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

Above: Tera Landman in the Orcas Island Winery tasting room. decided to spend their Independence Day holiday in the San Juans.

“There was something about Orcas that spoke to me,” Tera shared. “It has a vibrant art scene (which is at my core) and everyone we met was so helpful and kind.

At least one person flat-out told me we needed to move to Orcas Island.”

A week after returning from their July vacation, they saw the listing for the winery. A month later, they met with the owners with whom they had “immediate synergy.”

They closed the deal Dec. 26, 2018.

“Both Wesley and I ran hard and fast after college, landed high-powered, highpaying jobs that allowed us a comfortable lifestyle. Of course, we were also working 60-70 hour weeks,” she said, admitting it wasn’t the lifestyle in which they wanted to raise their young son.

“Having Winston changed everything,” she said.

Admitting that taking

over the winery was a huge leap of faith, the Landmans have no doubt it was the right move.

“The island virtually shouted ‘community,’” Tera offered. “We simply could not ignore the overwhelming sense of serendipity we found every step of the way.”

A lack of experience in the wine business did not deter the duo from following their dream. Tera has years of experience in customer service and hospitality; Wesley brings a solid background in finance. The new owner acknowledges that being a woman in the traditionally male world of wine-making can be a challenge.

“I believe in starting where you are, taking small steps and staying on course,” Landman offers.

She embraces what she’s good at and is “the first person to admit when I don’t know something.” To that end, they have brought on Chris Lawler, a local to the islands and a 25-year award-

Contributed photos

winning winemaker as their lead winemaker.

“I know I can be a voice for women in agriculture, for women in wine-making.

And no matter what the critics might say, I intend to prevail.” Tera also plans to be a voice for women in business believing that “reinvention is possible; that it’s all within you.”

The couple is also committed to supporting local businesses and suppliers, and the tasting room has many homegrown products for sale.

“Plus, we’ll be hosting a once-a-month book club, a candle-making workshop for holiday gift-making, concerts in the summer and more,” Tera said, adding that the facilities are also available for celebrations of all kinds.

Orcas Island Winery is open noon to 6 p.m, Wednesday through Sunday.

Visit www.orcasislandwinery.com or call 360-7975062 for more information.

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Page 7

New clothing shop aims to empower young women

by Colleen Smith

I

Editor/Publisher

n the back of Orcas Christian School’s brick building is an inviting, safe space for girls and women to go on a free shopping adventure.

Dawn Parnell opened Charlotte’s Closet on Aug. 29 and has served 19 clients to date. The store is named for her 1-year-old granddaughter.

“The program is designed to meet the needs of people who cannot buy clothing on their own,” Parnell said. “The best part is being able to provide a resource that hopefully will impact someone’s life in a positive way. …Teen girls face so many life obstacles.

Anything we can do to promote self-esteem — that’s my goal.”

After reading about a similar program in Billings, Montana, she decided to offer a clothing store open to anyone in San Juan County in need of a helping hand.

Parnell says her husband Mike and friends Kiki Coe and Jenny Nichols have been instrumental in developing the shop with her.

Charlotte’s Closet has received referrals from

Colleen Smith/staff photos

Far left: Dawn Parnell. Left and above: Some of the items in Charlotte’s Closet.

teachers, counselors, caseworkers and staff from the Orcas Community Resource Center and SAFE San Juans. Every session is by appointment at 360317-4026.

“I’m very big on confidentiality. I meet people either after school or on weekends,” said Parnell, who spends time with each client getting to know their needs. “Everyone has been very careful with what they select and only take what they really need.”

While the store was initially geared towards teens, it has evolved to serve all ages, including adult women. It currently only stocks items for females but Parnell has helped some boys find clothes too.

“Whoever comes through, I try to find something for them,” she said.

Parnell shops at sales on

the mainland and brings back a variety of clothing items and undergarments plus shoes, accessories, bedding, blankets, toiletries and makeup. She has changed her buying habits based on what’s been needed the most. So far, cozy throw blankets are one of her most popular items.

Parnell also receives

Call 360-376-8374

•

clothing donations, and if they fit the bill then they end up on the shelves of Charlotte’s Closet.

Whatever doesn’t work, she takes to the clothing bank, an annual event she started 25 years ago. It’s a time for islanders to pick up donated clothing, shoes and bedding for free. The next one is Sunday, Oct. 20,

twilliamsrealty.com

10 a.m.-5 p.m. in the OCS gym.

Clothing donations for Charlotte’s Closet can be dropped off any time in the OCS High School office.

To make a monetary donation, contact Parnell at the phone number listed above.

She also keeps a wish list of items – like a set of sheets – that are needed by a client.

“Anyone can sponsor a girl for whatever she might need,” Parnell said.

• 365 North Beach Road, Eastsound

“The team at T Williams Realty works together with a base of knowledge that covers every aspect of buying and selling a home seamlessly. I was expecting stress and anxiety. Instead, I received the knowledge and creativity of a winning team.”

– Nancy K. Raised in a family of musicians and entertainers, Grace McCune has been steeped in the world of theater and music since she was a child.

Prior to living on Orcas, McCune toured the country, playing her piano and singing in a wide variety of venues.

Her songwriting is deeply personal and explores her life’s journey. She has released three studio albums, 2 Eps and three live concert albums.

A long-time resident of Orcas Island, McCune teaches music to singers of all ages from her studio “Grace Notes” in Eastsound. One of her greatest joys is helping others find their voice and connect with music on a deeper level.

In 2008, McCune also founded and leads the Rock on the Rock Choir and has co-produced such productions as “Moulin Rouge,” “Across the Universe,” “Rock of Orcas” and “Teatro Titikookoo” and “This is Me.”

Grace Notes Studio grace@gracemccune.com 434 Madrona Street, Suite A, Eastsound

Collaborating with buyers and sellers for success with energy, integrity, action, honesty, intention, knowledge, community, friendship and family.

Beth Holmes 360-901-7536

Mandy Randolph 360-298-5727

beth@twilliamsrealty.com

mandy@twilliamsrealty.com

“If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.”

– Katharine Hepburn

Teri Williams 360-319-6256

Miramonee Harrington 702-413-8762

teri@twilliamsrealty.com

miramonee@twilliamsrealty.com sandi@twilliamsrealty.com

Sandi Friel 360-298-5180

Page 8

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

Notable women: a journey through history

by Mandi Johnson

T

Journal Editor

hroughout history, there have been women who made great advancements to society, but they’re often forgotten or go unacknowledged for years. Everyone remembers the men in history. The Napoleons, George Washington, Henry VIII, Einstein and Tesla – but women, too, have done amazing things worthy of immortalization.

Known for her poetry and being called the 10th muse by the Greek philosopher Plato, Sappho is an often overlooked artist from the Isle of Lesbos.

Poets.org claim that Sappho is one of the greatest lyric poets to have ever written, though little of her work remains today.

“The greatest problem for Sappho studies is that there’s so little Sappho to study,” wrote Daniel Mendelsohn in a 2015 article for The New Yorker. “It would be hard to think of another poet whose status is so disproportionate to the size of her surviving

Contributed photo

At left: Susan B. Anthony fought for women’s rights. At right: Sojourner Truth was born into slavery but escaped and became an advocate for the freedom of their fellow enslaved men, women and children. body of work.”

Cleopatra, the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt, is a well-known historical figure, but she was not the only female pharaoh to preside over the desert.

Coming before Cleopatra were Sobeknefru and

Hatshepsut.

Following her reign, Cleopatra’s stepson tried to erase her from the annals of history but failed.

“Knowing that her power grab was highly controversial, Hatshepsut fought to defend its legitimacy, pointing to her royal lin-

eage and claiming that her father had appointed her his successor,” said History. com. “She sought to reinvent her image, and in statues and paintings of that time, she ordered that she be portrayed as a male pharaoh, with a beard and large muscles. In other images,

however, she appeared in traditional female regalia.”

Other famous queens have ruled throughout history, including Mary, Queen of Scots, her cousin Queen Elizabeth I and the current, longest-presiding British Monarch in history Queen Elizabeth II. But

though women may have been in power a spattering of times throughout history, outside of the throne, most were still treated as second-class citizens – enter the suffragettes.

“I know that women, once convinced that they are doing what is right, that their rebellion is just, will go on, no matter what the difficulties, no matter what the dangers, so long as there is a woman alive to hold up the flag of rebellion. I would rather be a rebel than a slave,” said well-known American suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst.

Mary Wollstonecraft penned her book “A Vindication of the Rights of Women” in 1792 – one of the earliest writings regarding equality of men and women. A century later, Susan B. Anthony fought for female equality across the sea in the United States of America.

Today, many women still fight for equality – nationally, women are paid an

SEE WOMEN’S HISTORY, PAGE 9

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Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

WOMEN’S HISTORY FROM 8

Above: Climate activist Greta Thunberg. average of 20 percent less than their male counterparts doing the same job.

In countries throughout the world, women like Malala Yousafzai — who was shot in the head by a Taliban gunman for attending school and defending women’s and girls’ rights to education – are fighting just to earn an education.

“I don’t want to be thought of as the ‘girl who was shot by the Taliban’ but the ‘girl who fought for education.’ This is the cause to which I want to devote my life,” Yousafzai wrote in her memoir.

Other women of color have stood up to sexism and racism over the years and still fight for equality to this day — even equality with fellow white women.

Historical women of color heroines include Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman, who were born into slavery but escaped and became advocates for the freedom of their fellow enslaved men, women and children. Then there was Rosa Parks, who refused to give up her seat and move to the back of the bus so that a white man could sit down.

Women have also led the way in literary and scientific endeavors over the years. Take, for example, the creator of the science fiction genre – the daughter of the aforementioned Wollstonecraft.

Mary Shelley originally published her groundbreak-

Contributed photo

ing novel “Frankenstein” 200 years ago without her name attached for fear she would lose her children.

“It was considered such a masculine novel that when published anonymously (as was common for works written by women), many people attributed it to her husband,” wrote Harriet Hall in a 2018 article for Independent.

Then there were the women scientists, often unsung throughout history.

Rosalind Franklin discovered the double helix of DNA – though Francis Crick and James Watson were ultimately awarded credit and a Nobel Prize for the discovery. Franklin was not included in the

award for her contribution because the Nobel Committee does not grant prizes posthumously.

A woman scientist who did win, not one, but two Nobel Prizes was Marie Curie.

“She made groundbreaking work in the field of Radioactivity, enabling radioactive isotopes to be isolated for the first time. During the First World War, Curie developed the practical use of X-Rays; she also discovered two new elements, polonium and radium,” wrote a biography of Curie on Biographyonline.net. “Her pioneering scientific work was made more remarkable because of the discrimination which existed against women in science at the time.”

With both brains and beauty, actress Hedy Lamarr paved the way for modern wireless technology such as WiFi, GPS and Bluetooth. According to Forbes, however, her estate has not received a dime of compensation for her invaluable technological advancement.

“Although her ideas were

With both brains and beauty, actress Hedy Lamarr paved the way for modern wireless technology such as WiFi, GPS and Bluetooth.

Page 9

at first ignored, the technology (which she and Antheil patented in 1942) was later used by the military — during the Cuban missile crisis in October 1962, for example — and more recently, it has been employed in wireless technologies like cell phones,” wrote Melinda Wenner in a 2008 Scientific American article. “It was eventually recognized in 1997, when the Electronic Frontier Foundation honored Lamarr with a special Pioneer Award and she became the first woman to receive the Invention Convention’s BULBIE Gnass Spirit of Achievement Award.”

Leading the fight for climate change is a 16-yearold Swedish activist named Greta Thunberg. She’s encouraging the youth of the world to stand up to the adults and urge them to make changes to save the world from the harmful effects of global climate change.

“People are dying. Entire ecosystems are collapsing.

We are in the beginning of a mass extinction. And all you can talk about is money and fairytales of eternal economic growth,” Thunberg said to world leaders at the 2019 UN Climate Action Summit.

“How dare you!”

This is just a handful of the many women who have done great things to make the world a better place.

Throughout history and into the future, women have been and will continue to be, leaders and achievers.

October is National Women’s Small Business Month

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Artful clothing gallery | family souvenirs 269 Main St. Eastsound

Lisa Botiller Wolford

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www.orcasislandrealty.com • 360.376.2145 123 North Beach Rd Eastsound, WA 98245

Special thanks to Diane Berreth, Kathy Horton, and D Sparks

Open 10-5 closed Mondays.

Special hours on holidays.

Page 10

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

Feeding the soul of Orcas Island

by Diane Craig

F

Contributed photo

Wendy Thomas, owner of Wild Island in Eastsound.

I’m Your Huckleberry on ORCAS!

Come cozy up with us at Witty Coffee & More Organic, gluten free & vegan options Now open on Sundays!

In the Our House Building 123 N. Beach Rd

Pet Sitting

Lisa Spesard huckleberryagogo@ gmail.com

405.595.9180 Local References Available

@huckleberryagogo

Staff reporter

or Wendy Thomas, food and community are inextricably interwoven.

“It’s as much about serving and feeding the community as it is about providing a common space,” said the owner of Wild Island Restaurant and Juice Bar in Eastsound. “Even though many folks call in their order, from time to time others choose to come in for the ‘downtime,’ for the feeling of community,” she explains.

Since assuming ownership of the restaurant on Labor Day of 2018, Thomas has been serving locals and visitors alike healthy portions of both — healthful food and wholesome community.

Her staff of 10 full and part-time employees take pride in preparing everything from scratch, “all organic all the time,” she offered.

Thomas sources just about everything locally (“we go through about two dozen chickens a week”)

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ainshadow Solar specializes in design and installation of solar energy, battery storage, and EV charging systems. Our entire crew is committed to making the world a better place, and we are proud to have these talented women on the team.

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360.376.5336

and is more than ready to meet a customer’s special dietary needs.

“We had a busy tourist season this year and took care of a lot of happy people.

I had a lot of fun engaging with customers, tailoring the menu to their needs.

“I feel like if you have special dietary needs, this is the place.”

Thomas loves the idea of making fast, healthy food, “using simple ingredients that pack a lot of flavor.” She also believes in the importance of aesthetics and takes great pride in presenting wholesome food that looks appealing.

“When food is presented well and is pleasing to look at,” she explains, “the effect is incredibly positive on so many levels.”

The former owner of Eastsound’s Chez Chloe (named after her daughter), Thomas’s decision a year ago to take over the restaurant from its previous owner was a choice that had to be made quickly.

“We decided to keep the name and redirect the business a bit,” she offers, adding that they inherited “so many good things” from the previous owner. During the past year, Thomas has remodeled the interior and, recently, painted the building’s exterior.

“Well, two out of the four sides are painted,” she laughs. “We’ll get to the rest eventually!”

Thomas says the community can expect more changes. They’d like to make good use of the space in front of the restaurant, a change that could include a stage for outdoor events.

She says she’s happy with the way things have turned out though wasn’t sure if taking over a restaurant at 50 was a good idea.

“I wasn’t sure I could work this hard again,” she admits. “But this year has given me the opportunity to validate my skills, ideas and visions. When the opportunity (to purchase the restaurant) arose, I realized I wasn’t done yet.

“Now, I have an opportunity to leave a legacy.”

Wild Island is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Check out the menu and learn of upcoming events (and occasional closings) at www. wildislandrestaurant.com or call 360-298-3404.

Page 12

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

The women of Orcas Fire and Rescue

Colleen Smith, Sounder editor and group publisher

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 • The Islands’ Sounder

Laura Kussman, reporter

Mandi Johnson, Journal editor and Weekly co-editor

Women of the

Sounder, Journal and

Cali Bagby, Journal, Weekly ad sales

Back Row, Left to Right

Weekly

Tate Thomson, graphic artist and Weekly co-editor

Micki Nichols, Hilary Canty, Rita Harvey, Shawn Simpson, Judy Madan, Molly Roberts Front Row, Left to Right Kat Barnard, Kim Kimple, Maria Nutt, Libby Garcia, Roz Montgomery

T

Heather Spaulding, Journal office manager and reporter

Diane Craig, Sounder office manager and reporter

he Co-op is proud to recognize the vital role womxn play in our success and in furthering our mission of building a sustainable and resilient community. As valued employees, volunteers, local producers, and members, womxn offer unique contributions with extensive knowledge, resources, and skills allowing the Co-op to thrive as a healthy place for friends and neighbors. Thank you to all the womxn who have helped build the Co-op community!

Jessica Stahl, copy editor,contributor