360 August 24, 2017

Leroy Bell headlines annual Toys for Tots Benefit This Weekend, Page 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday August 24, 2016

TUNING UP PAGE 9 Lloyd Jones plays the Conway Muse on Friday ON STAGE PAGE 8

United Church of Ferndale hosts Singing Fellows of Viipuri

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “Guardians of the Season”: Charlie Cox Upcoming Galaxy: Vol. 2”: This stars in the Netflix series follow-up includes the based on the Marvel movie releases same humor, massive Comics character. The Following is a partial special effects and wonfirst season established schedule of coming DVD derfully quirky cast, but the background of how releases. Release dates the writing and direction an accident involving are subject to change:

by James Gunn stumble toxic chemicals stole AUG. 29 because the team gets Matt Murdock’s sight n Baywatch split into smaller splinter from him at a young age n Born in China groups. The Guardians but also gave him special n My Cousin Rachel are at their best when abilities he uses to fight n A Family Man they are together cutting crime in New York. n Chicago Fire: Season each other down and That opened up the Five saving the galaxy at the second season to take n Chicago Med: Season same time. the character deepTwo er into the Marvel Peter Quill (Chris n Elementary: The Fifth Universe including the Pratt), Drax (Dave Season addition of the characBautista), Gamora n Gotham: The Comter of Frank Castle (Jon (Zoe Saldana), Rocket plete Third Season Bernthal), better known (voiced by Bradley n Grey’s Anatomy: The as the Punisher.

Cooper) and Baby Complete Thirteenth “Scales: Mermaids Groot (voiced by Vin Season Are Real”: A girl Diesel) find themselves n Mom: The Complete discovers that on her hired to protect preFourth Season cious batteries owned 12th birthday, she will n NCIS: The Fourteenth by a race of creatures become a mermaid.

Season that have a very high “The Walking Dead: n Star Wars Rebels: The opinion of themselves.

Season 7”: Rick (AnComplete Season Three drew Lincoln) and his This job gives way as — Tribune News Service fellow survivors face part of the Guardians their deadliest foe in team is taken to a planet by a man who claims Negan (Jeffrey Dean to be Peter’s father.

Morgan).

Gunn makes every scene or action “800 Words: Season 2: Part 2”: Set bigger and bigger. He also loads up the includes eight episodes of the series film with one-liners that after a while about a man looking to make a new just start getting in the way. Gunn’s home for himself and his family in a efforts to expand his Galaxy results in quirky New Zealand coastal town. his cast being split into smaller groups “Kill Switch”: Former NASA scientists must travel to an alternative Earth including a secondary story about Gamora and her sister, Nebula (Karen to save both worlds.

“Jessica Jones: The Complete First Gillan). They work well together but Season”: Krysten Ritter stars in the not as well as the core group.

Netflix series based on the Marvel “Supergirl: The Complete Second Season”: The move of this network se- Comics character. ries from CBS to the CW was a big plus.

“Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Season Instead of focusing so much on the Four”: Andy Samberg network come24-year old cousin to Superman (played dy set in a New York police precinct.

“NCIS: Los Angeles: The Eighth with great charm by Melissa Benoist) Season”: Small group of naval officers in the workplace, the second season opened up the comic book world action fight crime in Southern California. LL Cool J stars. and characters including the introduction of Mon-El (Chris Wood).

“Dominion Creek: Series 2”: The move away from so much time Connolly brothers stand against the spent with Linda Danvers, the secret dangers of the Yukon’s Klondike Valley during the 1890s gold rush. identity of Supergirl, chatting with “A Blast”: Woman must find a way Cat Grant (Calista Flockhart) helped to deal with the crumbling Greek move this series from being a soap economy. opera with a female hero to a much — Rick Bentley, Tribune News better action series.

Service “Daredevil: The Complete Second

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

ON STAGE / Page 8

Hot Damn Scandal plays Heart of Anacortes on Saturday

INSIDE

SUBMISSIONS Email features@skagitpublishing.com Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday for the following Thursday edition Phone 360-416-2135 Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274

Out & About ........................................... 4-5 Get Involved ........................................... 6-7 On Stage ......................................................8 Tuning Up ...................................................9 Travel .........................................................10 Hot Tickets ...............................................11 Music .........................................................12 At the Lincoln ..........................................13 Movies .................................................14-15 Cover photo by Lisa Constantino

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

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

THIS WEEKENDin the area Leroy Bell and Only His Friends headline Toys for Tots benefit

CAR SHOW The second annual United General Fitness Center car show will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 26, at 1990 Hospital Drive, Sedro-Woolley. $15 car registration, free general admission. unitedgeneral.org.

HORSEPOWER AT THE HARBOR The Island Classic Mustang Club will hosts its 33rd Horsepower at the Harbor car show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at Windjammer Park, 1600 Beeksma Drive, Oak Harbor. $25 car registration, free general admission. islandclassicmustangclub.com.

SKAGIT COMMUNITY BAND

LISA CONSTANTINO PHOTO

Leroy Bell and Only His Friends

Leroy Bell and Only His Friends will perform at the ninth annual Toys for Tots Benefit Concert set for 4 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 26, at Eagle Haven Winery, 8243 Sims Road, Sedro-Woolley.

The Margaret Wilder Band will open.

RACHEL PARRISH PHOTO

Margaret Wilder Band

The day will include music, food, drinks, raffles and a live auction. Proceeds from the concert go to the Skagit County Toys for Tots chapter. $25-$100. 360-757-1888 or brownpapertickets.com/event/2990902.

Skagit Community Band will present a free outdoor concert at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, in Gilkey Square in La Conner. skagitcommunityband.org.

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OUT & ABOUT

ART

“BRONZE, BOATS AND SHADOWS”: A show featuring the work of Ann Morris runs until Aug. 27 at Smith & Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison. Morris, a Lummi Island artist, will show pieces including bronze sculpture, photographs, and her ethereal Crossing series of hand-built boats made from wild vegetation and organic materials. An artist talk will take place from 4 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26. The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. smithandvallee.com or 360-766-6230.

BERGSMA AT MILO: Bellingham artist Jody Bergsma will show acrylic and mixed media pieces at a show through Aug. 29 at the Scott Milo Gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Bergsma brings florals, birds and landscapes with metallic mixed media accents. Also showing: encaustic paintings by Marilee Holm, oils by Lorna Libert, acrylics

by Cynthia Richardson and pastels by Jan Wall.

“SUNSHINE AND RAINBOWS”: The Good Stuff Arts, 604 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, will present its show “Sunshine and Rainbows: The Light and Color of the Northwest” during August. New artists are Ralph Bladt, watercolor; Steven R. Hill, pastels; Beth Chatt McGurran, coiled baskets; and Gwen Shay, Raku jewelry. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mondays to Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat-

urdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays.

MADRONA GROVE SCULPTURES: The exhibition, featuring 12 sculptures and presented by the Anacortes Arts Commission, occupies the madrona grove and surrounding areas near the Depot Arts & Community Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes.

OPEN STREETS, ARTWALK: An Open Streets plaza event and the First Friday Artwalk will take place along Commercial Avenue in Anacortes on Friday, Sept. 1. The Street Plaza will be held from Fourth Street to Sixth Street, with the area closed to traffic from 6 to 9 p.m. People will be able to shop late with the merchants, dine and socialize in an outdoor setting and listen to lBB and the Tall Boys. Several galleries will also have shows, including ACME Creative, Burton Jewelers, The Good Stuff Arts, The Croatian Cultural Center, Pelican Bay Books and Coffee House, the Scott Milo Gallery and the Majestic Inn and Spa. anacortesart.com.

“EVIDENCE”: The new art show featuring the work of David Blakesley and Kathleen Faulkner will open in September at Smith & Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison, with an artist reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 2. An artist talk will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30. Blakesley, based in Edison, presents salvaged material sculptures and mystical

HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL

The Mount Vernon Downtown Association will present the third annual Harvest Moon Festival: Retro on the River from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, on the Skagit Riverwalk Plaza in downtown Mount Vernon. Live music, local microbrews, cider, wine and food. Fantasy Band (pictured) and Sunset Superman will perform hits of the ‘80s. Ages 21 and older. Tickets include two beverages: $20 advance, $25 at the gate, $15 designated driver. 360-336-3801 or mountvernondowntown.org.

gouache paintings.

Faulkner, who lives in Anacortes, will present painted oil pastels, inspired by the deep tranquil forests that surround the area. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

“BLUE”: A four-woman show, defining personal relationships to “Blue,” will run Sept. 1-30 at the Lincoln Theatre Art

Bar, 712 First St. Artists are Carol Ann Anderson, Diane Learmonth, Sherry Shipley and Suzanne Perlmutter. Many artists work through the ‘Blue Phase’ as a way to give expression to their many passages in life and also as a kind of comfort.

CAR SHOWS

UGH CAR SHOW: The second annual United General Fitness Center car show is set

for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 26, at 1990 Hospital Drive, Sedro-Woolley. $15 car registration, free general admission. unitedgeneral.org.

HORSEPOWER AT THE HARBOR: The Island Classic Mustang Club will hosts its 33rd Horsepower at the Harbor car show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 26, at Windjammer Park,

1600 Beeksma Drive, Oak Harbor. The show is free to attend, $25 to enter a car. islandclassicmustangclub.com.

FESTIVALS

FALL FESTIVAL: The Guemes Island Fall Festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 2, at Guemes Island Community Hall. Artists, bakers and craft people will offer their creations for sale.

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OUT & ABOUT

LECTURES AND TALKS

PRICE THE POLLUTION, FUND THE SOLUTION: Sameer Ranad of the Washington Environmental Council and Steve Garey of the Blue Green Alliance will offer ways that Skagit County citizens can help reduce climate pollution at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 29, at the Anacortes Senior Center, 1701 22nd St. Hosted

by Transition Fidalgo & Friends and the Alliance for Jobs and Clean Energy. transitionfidalgo.org or jobscleanenergywa.com.

DNA TESTING AND FAMILY HISTORY: Genealogist and scientist Barbara Johnson will answer questions at the Skagit Valley Genealogical Society meeting from 1 to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 9, at the Burlington Senior Center, 1011 Greenleaf Ave., Burlington.

MUSIC

BURLINGTON SUMMER NIGHTS CONCERT SERIES: The Dog Tones wraps up the series on Friday, Aug. 25, at the Burlington Visitor Center Downtown Amphitheater, 520 E. Fairhaven Ave. Activities begin at 5 p.m., concerts start at 7 p.m.

Free. 360-755-9649.

LA CONNER SOUNDS: The La Conner Live 2017 Sunday concert series features local and regional bands, with performances from 1 to 4 p.m. at Gilkey Square, Morris Avenue and First Street, in downtown La Conner. Free admission. lovelaconner. com/featured/la-connerlive-2017-concert-series. n Aug. 27: The Heebie Jeebies. n Sept. 3: CC Adams Band featuring Mary Ellen Lykins.

STANWOOD CONCERT SERIES: The fourth annual Stanwood Summer Concert Series showcases local and regional bands playing family-friendly rock, blues and roots music. All concerts are free and take place from 4 to 6 p.m. at 270th St. in west Stanwood: n Aug. 26: Chris Eger Band. n Sept. 9: Mark Dufresne.

SUMMER JAMS: The Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, will present the 2017 Blues, Brews and BBQ series with live music, microbrews on tap and an outdoor barbecue, at 5 p.m. each Thursday during the summer.

360-392-3100 or hotelbellwether.com/featured/ blues-brews-bbq. n Today: The Atlantics. n Aug. 31: Stacy Jones Band. n Sept. 7: Spaceband. n Sept. 14: Baby Cakes.

MOUNT VERNON CONCERT SERIES: The 2017 Mount Vernon Riverwalk Concert Series takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays during the summer at the Riverwalk in downtown Mount Vernon. Free admission. 360-428-8547 or mountvernonchamber.com. n Today: Polecat. n Aug. 31: Rivertalk.

ANACORTES CONCERT: The Chris Eger Band wraps up the Port of Anacortes Summer Concert Series from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25, at Seafarers Memorial Park, 601 Seafarers Way. portofanacortes.com.

OUTDOORS IN ANACORTES: The 2017 Heart of Anacortes outdoor

concert series will be held during the summer at the corner of Fourth Street and O Avenue.

Performances run 6 to 8 p.m. (unless otherwise noted); admission is free and families are welcome.

360-293-3515 or heartofanacortes.com. n Aug. 26: Hot Damn Scandal. n Sept. 2: Stacy Jones Band.

SKAGIT COMMUNITY BAND: The Skagit Community Band will present a free outdoor concert at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, in Gilkey Square in La Conner. skagitcommunityband.org.

MUSIC FESTIVAL: San Juan Island’s Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes will host its first music festival, featuring renowned jazz guitarist Brian Nova, on Sept. 2-3. Other performers will include Max Holmberg, Brian Kirk, Missoni Lanza, Dan O’Brien, Howard Paul and Stephanie Porter. $25 per day; gate opens at 10 a.m.

360-378-2350 or lakedale. com.

EAGLE HAVEN MUSIC: Birdsview Bluegrass will wrap up the 2017 Concerts in the Pavilion Series at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at Eagle Haven Winery, 8243 Sims Road, Sedro-Woolley. 360-8566248 or eaglehavenwinery. com.

CITY AND COLOUR: City and Colour, aka singer, songwriter and performer Dallas Green, will perform at 9 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 28, at Mount Baker Theatre, 104 Commercial St., Bellingham. $35. tickets@ mountbakertheatre.com or 360-734-6080.

MORE FUN

MOVIES IN THE PARK: The City of Stanwood will present “Spy Kids” at its free Movies in the Park at dusk Thursday, Aug. 31, at Church Creek Park, 27116 72nd Ave. NW, Stanwood.

360-629-2181, ext. 4505.

FAIRHAVEN OUTDOOR CINEMA: The Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema series will wrap up with “The Princess Bride” with Claymazing on Saturday, Aug. 26.

Movie starts at dusk at the Village Green, 1207 10th St., Bellingham. $5 admission.

STARLIGHT CINEMA: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation’s Starlight Cinema Movies in the Park wraps up with “Moana” at dusk Friday, Aug. 25, at Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon.

Free. 360-336-6215.

FASHION SHOW: A fashion show, luncheon and silent auction will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 4001 St. Mary’s Drive, Anacortes. $30.

Proceeds go to St. Joseph Healing Ministries. Fashions will be by Tides of Anacortes, Donatello’s and Island Styles. For tickets and information, contact Kathy Moore at 360-3538598 or stjoheal@outlook. com.

EARLY ENRICHMENT: Parents or caregivers and children ages 2 to 4 years old can participate in a time of art, stories and sensory experiences from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 29, at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 N. First St., La Conner. Preregistration required. Sessions will

continue Tuesday mornings through September. monamuseum.org/early-enrichment.

BUSKERFEST: Anacortes Buskerfest 2017 will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, August 27, during Open Streets Anacortes. This is an event where the city closes its main street and encourages everyone to bike, roller skate, skateboard, walk and play in the streets. Adding a new element to entertain visitors, buskers (a person who entertains in a public place for donations) will be on hand along Commercial Avenue. anacortesartsfestival.com/buskerfest.

ART IN THE PARK: The Arts Council of Sedro-Woolley’s first Art in the Park and Community Talent Show will take place from 1 to 5 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 27, at Riverfront Park in Sedro-Woolley. Enjoy a wide variety of musical acts, comedians, thespians and artists.

Free. Food will be available for purchase. Vendors and talent participants are being accepted. artscouncilsw@gmail.com.

ALGER SUNDAY MARKET: noon to 4 p.m.

Sundays, through Oct. 29, Alger Community Hall, 18735 Parkview Lane, Burlington.

APPRECIATION DAY: Sedro-Woolley Farmers Market Customer Appreciation Day will be Wednesday, Aug. 30.

The market, located at Hammer Heritage Square in Sedro-Woolley, will be open from 3-7 p.m. 360202-0446.

THEATER ARTS GUILD ANNIVERSARY: The Theater Arts Guild Silver Celebration will take place

at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, at the Lincoln Theatre in downtown Mount Vernon. Reserved tickets are $15 and $25 at lincolntheatre.org. Event details at http://lincolntheatre.org/performance/ tags-silver-celebration; details regarding upcoming TAG shows and auditions can be found on theaterartsguild.org.

BOW FARMERS MARKET: 1 to 6 p.m. Thursdays, through Aug. 31, Samish Bay Cheese, 15115 Bow Hill Road, Bow. bowlittlemarket.com.

‘ALGER COMMUNITY FUN’RAISER’: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 2, Alger Community Hall, 18735 Parkview Lane, Burlington. Enjoy music

by Classic Roads from noon to 3 p.m., a beer garden, produce and craft vendors, garage and bake sales, kids’ games and more. Free admission.

360-724-0340.

WOODAPALOOZA: The Whidbey Island Woodworkers Guild will present the “Art + Wood = Woodpalooza @ WICA” exhibition Saturday through Monday, Sept.

2-4, at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Zech Hall, 565 Camano Avenue, Langley. A reception is scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1. 360221-8262 or wicaonline. com.

BLOCK PARTY: The North Cascade SDA Church will host a free end-of-summer barbecue party for the neighborhood from noon to 4 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 10, at 800 Peacock Lane, Burlington.

There will be barbecue, a human foosball game and more. 360-757-7577 or ncdsa.org.

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GET INVOLVED

ART

ARTS ALIVE CALL FOR ARTISTS: Skagit Artists (Together) seeks artists in Skagit, Whatcom, Snohomish, Island and San Juan counties to enter the Fall Juried Show/Arts Alive. The show is open to all 2D and 3D mediums. $1,200 in prize money.

Submission deadline is Sept. 1. The show will take place Nov. 4-6 in the La Conner Garden Club at the same time as the La Conner Arts Alive exhibition.

Information and to apply: callforentry.org/ festivals_unique_info. php?ID=4557.

2017 HOLIDAY GREETING CARD CONTEST: The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation seeks professional

UASF BAND OF THE GOLDEN WEST THE COMMANDERS JAZZ ENSEMBLE

AUGUST 27 2:00PM FREE 2017-2018 SEASON ON SALE NOW

JOHN WELSH BAND MCINTYRE HALL PRESENTS SEPTEMBER 30

360.416.7727

mcintyrehall.org

and hobby artists to submit a digital image of original artwork, thematic of the Christmas holiday or winter season. The winning artist will have his or her art featured on the Foundation’s 2017 holiday greeting card and will receive a $100 honorarium. Deadline is Sept. 18. For contest guidelines, visit skagitregionalhealth. org/hospital-foundation.

OPEN STREETS, FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALKS: Two local events, Open Streets and First Friday Artwalks, are joining forces to create a “Street Plaza” setting on Commercial Avenue between Fourth and Sixth streets on Sept. 1 in Anacortes.

The downtown area will be closed to traffic from 6 to 9 p.m. to encourage participants to linger longer. Music will be played in the Commercial Avenue-Fifth Street intersection.

Restaurants will offer special sidewalk seating. anacortesart.com.

ART CLASSES

DOTTIE BURTON ART CLASS: 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Sept. 13 through Oct. 4, A Guilded Gallery, 8700 271st St. NW, Stanwood.

Primarily acrylic and/ or mixed media and/or watercolor. $100. 360629-2787 or stanwoodcamanoartsguild.com.

WATERCOLOR WITH MICHELE COOPER: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 19 to Nov. 16, at A Guilded Gallery, Stanwood. $150. 360629-2787 or jnichol@ wavecable.com. jp 080417

PACIFIC NORTHWEST QUILT AND FIBER ARTS MUSEUM: Varied exhibits and classes are available to the public at 703 S. Second St., La Conner. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday through Sunday. Admission: $7, $5 students and military, free for members and children ages 11 and under. 360-466-4288 or laconnerquilts.org. n Fiber Fridays: Bring any kind of fiber art project, quilting, knitting, embellishing, etc., to work on while visiting with other fiber artists from 9 a.m. to noon every Friday. Free and open to all.

AUDITIONS

BLACK BOX THEATER: The Poseidon Players will hold auditions for the next Black Box Theater presentation from 3 to 5 p.m.

Sept. 9 and 6 to 8 p.m.

Sept. 10 in the Star Studio, behind the Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Boulevard, Oak Harbor. The Black Box Theater is open to anyone interested in honing their acting, directing, playwright or technical skills. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

CANTABILE CHAMBER CHOIR AUDITIONS: Rehearsals are 6:30 to 9 p.m. Mondays at Bethany Covenant Church, 1318 S. 18th St., Mount Vernon.

Dues are $150 per year. Auditions are by appointment. Information: Jennie Bouma at 425-312-4565 or cantabilechamberchoir@ gmail.com.

WHIDBEY PLAYHOUSE 2017-18

SEASON: This season’s schedule for Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd, Oak Harbor: n “Kill Me, Deadly” (noir comedy), Nov. 3-19. n “A Christmas Carol” (musical), Dec. 1-17. n “The Producers” (musical), Feb. 9-March 4. n “The Hollow” (mystery/thriller), April 13-29. n “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka” (musical), June 1-24.

360-679-2237, whidbeyplayhouse.com.

BOOKS

BOOK GROUP: The Center for Spiritual Living book group meets at 6 p.m. on the first, second and fourth Thursdays, and at 5:30 p.m. on third Thursdays at 1508 18th St. Mount Vernon.

Participants read and discuss books in many areas of spirituality and personal growth. Free.

For more information, contact Gabrielle Conatore at 360-920-19995 and mtvernoncsl@ outlook.com.

GREAT BOOKS READING GROUP MEETING: The group examines passages from important writings in history. It meets from 6 to 8 p.m. the fourth Monday of each month at the Burlington Public Library, 820 E. Washington Ave. All are welcome. 360-941-1437 or shunji.asari@gmail.com.

Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave. $4. All levels welcome. 360-424-4608 or rosie@valleyint.com.

BEGINNING LINE DANCING: 7 to 8 p.m.

Tuesdays, Burlington Community Center, 1011 Greenleaf Ave. $6 drop-ins, $20 per monthly session. For adults and teens 13 and older. recreation@ burlingtonwa.gov or 360-755-9649.

FOLK DANCING: Skagit-Anacortes Folk Dancers meet Tuesdays at Bay View Civic Hall, 12615 C St., Mount Vernon. Learn to folk dance to a variety of international music. Instruction begins at 7 p.m. followed by review and request dances until 9:30 p.m.

The first session is free, $3 thereafter. All welcome. No partners needed. For information, contact Gary or Ginny at 360-766-6866.

SCOTTISH DANCING: Bellingham Scottish Country Dancers meet from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the Fairhaven Library auditorium (upstairs), 1117 12th St., Bellingham. Wear comfortable clothes and soft-soled shoes without heels. $8 per class. For information, call Mary Anderson at 360-933-1779 or visit bellinghamscd.org.

DANCE

SWING DANCE LESSON: 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Road, Camano Island. $10/$8 students. 360387-0222.

JOLLY TIME CLUB: Dance to live music from 1 to 3:30 p.m.

Thursdays, Hillcrest Lodge, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. For information, contact Gisela at 360-424-5696.

SQUARE DANCING: 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays,

CLOG DANCING FOR BEGINNERS:

Free lesson from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by regular clog dancing from 11 a.m. to noon Thursdays, Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St., Mount Vernon. No fee, no partner needed.

First three lessons are free. Wear comfortable shoes. For information, call Rosie at 360-4244608.

MUSIC

SONG TREE SERIES: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, Heart of Anacortes, 1014 Fourth St. Instrumental songs, poetry and spoken word poetry are welcome in addition to lyrical songs.

Songwriters are encouraged to bring one or two songs to share and be ready to talk about the qualities of each others’ songs. Free. lalipke@ comcast.net.

UKULELE FUN & SONG CIRCLE: 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Free. Beginners welcome and loaner ukuleles available. Song sheets provided. 206-790-4862 or yogaheartspace0@ gmail.com.

BARBERSHOP HARMONY: Attend a free, no-commitment rehearsal of the AnO-Chords, a four-part barbershop harmony group. No experience necessary, no auditions required. Learn by rote, you don’t have to read music. All ages welcome. Drop in any Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Northwest Educational Service Building, 1601 R Ave., Anacortes.

Rides available. anochords.org or 360-4660109.

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GET INVOLVED to 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays at North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Boulevard, Burlington. 360707-2683 or jauman@ northcovecoffee.com.

SHELTER BAY CHORUS: Practices are held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursdays at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse, 1000 Shoshone Drive, La Conner. New members welcome. No need to be a Shelter Bay resident.

360-223-3230.

PRICE THE POLLUTION, FUND THE SOLUTION: Sameer Ranad of the Washington Environmental Council and Steve Garey of the Blue Green Alliance will offer ways that Skagit County citizens can help reduce climate pollution at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29, at the Anacortes Senior Center, 1701 22nd St. Hosted by Transition Fidalgo & Friends and the Alliance for Jobs and Clean Energy. transitionfidalgo.org or jobscleanenergywa.com.

LOVE TO SING?: Join the women of Harmony Northwest Chorus from 6:30 to 9 p.m. every Monday at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave. Seeking women who like to sing a cappella music.

All skill levels welcome.

ANACORTES OPEN MIC: 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360293-2544.

OPEN MIC: Jam Night, 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursdays, Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-445-4733.

BRING YOUR OWN GUITAR: Bring your guitar and learn a wide variety of new songs from 6:30 to 8 p.m. the first and third Wednesdays at North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Boulevard, Burlington. 360-7072683 or jauman@northcovecoffee.com.

BRING YOUR OWN UKULELE FOR BEGINNERS: Bring your ukulele and learn a wide variety of new songs from 6

PRESENTATIONS, LECTURES, TALKS

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE SPEAKER SERIES: 6 to 8 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Marysville Opera House, 1225 Third St., Marysville.

Each presentation will feature a question and answer period and/or book signing and sales. $3. 360-363-8400 or go to marysvillewa.gov.

Next up: n Tuesday, Sept. 26: Maria Mudd Ruth, “A Sideways Look at Clouds and Other Natural Wonders”: Ruth is the author of more than a dozen books on natural history topics. In addition to her latest book, “A Sideways Look at Clouds,” she is the author of the critically acclaimed “Rare Bird: Pursuing the Mystery of the Marbled Murrelet.” Her program will highlight the value of curiosity, the common challenges of studying

birds and clouds, and the importance of forging abiding connections to the natural world.

— Tuesday, Oct. 24: Bill Thorness, “Cycling the Pacific Coast: An Epic Adventure on Two Wheels.” The Seattle author will showcase his new book “Cycling the Pacific Coast: A Complete Guide from Canada to Mexico.” He will highlight his other books including “Biking Puget Sound, 2nd Edition” and “Cool Season Gardener and Edible Heirlooms.”

RECREATION

SUPPORT MVHS FOOTBALL: Mount Vernon High School Football Booster Club Green and White Night, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25, Mount Vernon High School Bulldog Stadium, 314 N. Ninth St. Mini-football games, food from Mount Vernon Youth Football Dawg House and multiple raffles. $5 per person, ages 18 and under are free.

AMERICA’S BOATING COURSE: U.S. Power Squadron will offer America’s Boating Course from 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Sept. 6-27, at the Anacortes Marina.

The Coast Guard- and state-approved course will qualify attendees for the Washington Boater Education Card and for insurance discounts. $55, $65 for two sharing a book. Information and to register: Debbie Richey at 360-387-1260 or drichey@rocketmail. com.

SKAGIT SYMPHONY PARK TO PEAK TRAIL RUN: The 7K run/walk and 14K run is set for

10 a.m. Saturday, Sept.

9, beginning at Hillcrest Lodge in Mount Vernon, up the trails of Little Mountain and back down to Hillcrest. The kids’ mini trail dash (ages 18 months to 8 years) will start at 9:45 a.m. All proceeds benefit Skagit Symphony and its education programs. Registration fees: $30 for 7K and 14K events, $10 for kids’ dash.

360-848-9336, parktopeak@skagitsymphony.com or http://skagitparktopeak.com.

SEAMANSHIP COURSE: The U.S. Power Squadrons’ Seamanship Course will be taught by Skagit Bay Sail & Power Squadron from 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays, Oct. 2 to Nov. 27, at the Anacortes Marina, 2415 T Ave. Registration deadline is Sept. 10.

Course materials include a student guide and a downloadable version of the U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules. $120 for individuals, $160 for two sharing a book.

Contact Bob Miller at 360-588-9950 or bobmillerwa@hotmail.com.

CHRISTIAN MOTORCYCLE ASSOCIATION: CMA Morning Star Chapter 39 meets the first Monday of each month at Royal Star

Buffet, 2300 Freeway Drive, Mount Vernon.

Meals are paid for firsttime visitors. Dinner at 6 p.m. (optional), followed by meeting at 7 p.m. Contact: Dwight Kaestner, 425-770-6154 or cmachapter39@gmail. com.

BOARD MEMBER SEARCH: The Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center seeks board members. Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at Annie’s Pizza Station 44568 Highway 20, Concrete.

Contact Cora Thomas at srbeatic@frontier.com or 360-722-0229.

FRIENDS OF THE FOREST HIKES: Join Friends of the Forest for scenic hikes in the forest lands around Anacortes.

Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.

No pets. Free. 360-2933725 or friendsoftheacfl. org. n A senior/adult hike to northwest Heart Lake, 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Sept. 8. Explore a maze of trails in the Ace of Hearts Creek terrain. There will be some gentle hills on this 1-mile hike.

FREE PARK ADMISSION: The Washington State Parks and Recre-

ation Commission will offer free admission to all state parks on Friday, Aug. 25, in honor of the National Park Service’s 101st birthday. The Discover Pass will not be required to enter state parks. The pass is still required to access lands managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources. parks.wa.gov.

THEATER

ACTING CLASSES: The iDiOM Theater offers acting classes for all ages at the Sylvia Center for the Arts, 205 Prospect St., Bellingham. Prices vary. sylviacenterforthearts@ gmail.com or sylviacenterforthearts.org.

FREE ADULT ACTING CLASSES: Anacortes Community Theatre offers free acting classes for adults twice each month: from 7 to 10:30 p.m. the first Tuesday, and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the third Saturday, at 918 M Ave., Anacortes. Classes include monologue work, scripted scenes, improv games and more, with a different topic each month. Each class is independent, so you don’t have to commit to every session. 360-8400089 or freeadultactingclass.com.

RETRO ON THE RIVER SATURDAY, 26 AUGUST 5:00 - 10:00PM

SUNSET SUPERMAN AND FANTASY BAND

FEATURING

ON THE SKAGIT RIVERWALK PLAZA, DOWNTOWN MOUNT VERNON

More Info: 360.336.3801 • info@mountvernondowntown.org • mountvernondowntown.org Advance Tickets: $20 at brownpapertickets.com • 21+ event

1647403

TIME FOR FIDDLERS: The Washington Old Time Fiddlers play at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland. St. Free; donations accepted. 360630-1156.

E8 - Thursday, August 24, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area August 24 - September 2 Thursday.24

Polecat: 6 to 8 p.m., Mount Vernon Riverwalk. 360-428-8547 or mountvernonchamber.com.

Saturday.26

MUSIC Hot Damn Scandal: 6 p.m., Heart of Anacortes, 4th & O streets, Anacortes. Free. 360-293-3515 or heartofanacortes.com.

Leroy Bell and Only His Friends, Margaret Wilder Band: Toys for Tots fundraiser, 4 p.m., Eagle Haven Winery, 8243 Sims Road, Sedro-Woolley. $25-$100. 360-856-6248, eaglehavenwinery.com or brownpapertickets.com/ event/2990902.

Monday.28

Viipurin Lauluveikot — The Singing Fellows of Viipuri: 7 p.m., United Church of Ferndale, 2034 Washington St., Ferndale. $10-$20.

360-714-8600 or brownpapertickets. com/event/2962506.

Saturday.2

MUSIC Stacy Jones Band: 6 p.m., Heart of Anacortes, 4th & O streets, Anacortes.

Free. 360-293-3515 or heartofanacortes.com.

SATURDAY.26

HOT DAMN SCANDAL

6 p.m., Heart of Anacortes, 4th & O streets, Anacortes. Free. 360-293-3515 or heartofanacortes.com

MONDAY.28

VIIPURIN LAULUVEIKOT – THE SINGING FELLOWS OF VIIPURI

7 p.m., United Church of Ferndale, 2034 Washington St., Ferndale. $10-$20. 360714-8600 or brownpapertickets.com/ event/2962506

Thursday, August 24, 2017 - E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TUNING UP Playing at area venues August 24-31 Thursday.24

The Atlantics: 5 p.m., Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham. 360-3923100 or hotelbellwether. com/featured/bluesbrews-bbq.

Polecat: 6 to 8 p.m., Mount Vernon Riverwalk. 360-428-8547 or mountvernonchamber. com.

Sheri Roberts Greimes: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 First St., La Conner. aneliaskitchenandstage. com.

Vernonica May: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $5. 360445-3000 or conwaymuse.com.

Friday.25

The Bleeding Tree: 8:30 p.m. to midnight, Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360422-6411.

The Hoe and the Harrow: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 First St., La Conner. aneliaskitchenandstage. com.

Charlie Hodge performs the music of Neil Diamond: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill & Anacortes Brewery, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720 or anacortesrockfish.com.

Curly Taylor: 8 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. anacortesh2o.com or 360-755-3956.

Little Mountain: 8:30 p.m. to midnight, Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360422-6411.

The Wingmen: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Casino Resort, 5984

la-conner-live-2017concert-series.

Ron W. Bailey & The Tangents: 5:30 p.m., The Old Edison, 5829 Cains Court, Bow. 360-766-6266 or theoldedison.com.

Gary B’s Church of the Blues: open jam, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-4454733.

Jason Boland & The Stragglers, The Lowdown Drifters: Loco Billy’s, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $20 advance, $25 at door. locobillys.com.

Darrk Lane, Bow. theskagit.com/entertainment or 877-2752448.

Good Vibrations: 6 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

Members and signed-in guests only. 360-8488882.

Lloyd Jones, Polly O’Keary and the Rhythm Method: 7 p.m., Conway Muse Starlight Stage, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $15-$18. 360-445-3000 or conwaymuse.com.

J.P. Falcon: 8 p.m., Longhorn Saloon, 5754 Cains Court, Bow. Free.

360-766-6330.

Saturday.26

Leroy Bell and Only His Friends, Margaret Wilder Band: Toys for Tots fundraiser, 4 p.m., Eagle Haven Winery, 8243 Sims Road, Sedro-Woolley. $25$100. 360-856-6248, eaglehavenwinery.com or brownpapertickets. com/event/2990902.

The Bleeding Tree: 8:30 p.m. to midnight, Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360422-6411.

Chris Eger Band: 4 to 6 p.m., Stanwood Summer Concert Series, 271st Street, East Stanwood. Free.

Queen’s Bluegrass: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 First St., La Conner. aneliaskitchenandstage. com.

Little Mountain: 8:30 p.m. to midnight, Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360422-6411.

The Wingmen: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit

Monday.28 FRIDAY.25 LLOYD JONES

7 p.m., Conway Muse Starlight Stage, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $15-$18. 360-445-3000 or conwaymuse.com

Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. theskagit.com/entertainment or 877-2752448.

Steel Beans: 9:30 p.m., Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-293-2544 or brownlantern.com.

Ann ‘n Dean: 7 to 10 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

360-848-8882.

Miller Campbell & Steel Grit: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10 advance, $15 at door. locobillys.com.

Skagit Community Band: 2 p.m., Gilkey Square, Morris Avenue and First Street, La Conner. Free.

Swil Kanim: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. 360-

The Fat Fridays: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Angel of the Winds Casino, 3438 Stoluckquamish Lane, Arlington. angelofthewinds.com.

Wednesday.30

Swingnuts Jazz: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill & Anacortes Brewery, 320 Commercial Ave. 360588-1720 or anacortesrockfish.com.

Yoshi Gish: 9 p.m., Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360293-2544 or brownlantern.com.

Thursday.31 MONDAY.28 THE FAT FRIDAYS

11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Angel of the Winds Casino, 3438 Stoluckquamish Lane, Arlington. angelofthewinds.com.

445-3000 or conwaymuse.com.

Siggi the Vintage Man: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon, 5754 Cains Court, Bow. Free. 360766-6330.

Sunday.27

The Heebie Jeebies: 1 to 4 p.m., Gilkey Square, Morris Avenue and First Street, La Conner. Free. lovelaconner.com/featured/

Stacy Jones Band: 5 p.m., Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham. 360-3923100 or hotelbellwether. com/featured/bluesbrews-bbq.

Rivertalk: 6 to 8 p.m., Mount Vernon Riverwalk. 360-4288547 or mountvernonchamber.com.

Jeff Zuber: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 First St., La Conner. aneliaskitchenandstage.com.

E10 - Thursday, August 24, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TRAVEL

FA M I LY T R AV E L FI V E

Locations to consider before summer is gone

By LYNN O’ROURKE HAYES FamilyTravel.com

Don’t let summer slip by without making a family travel plan. Here are five ideas to consider: 1. Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood, Ore.: Located in the Mount Hood National Forest, this magnificent lodge was built at the height of the Great Depression by unemployed craftspeople hired by the Federal Works Progress Administration. Completed on Sept. 28, 1937, the historic structure has long served as the centerpiece of a mountain playground where families ski, hike, dine, mountain bike, learn about the local flora and fauna and simply enjoy the high altitude natural beauty. timberlinelodge.com; traveloregon.com 2. Cheyenne Mountain Resort, Colorado Springs, Colo.: On 200 scenic acres, with golf, tennis, spa, a 35-acre lake with loads of water action, and plenty of hiking trails nearby, this 316-room

resort provides a grand location from which to explore “The Springs.”

On property, your family can cozy up around a beach bonfire, go paddle boarding at sunset, or play Marco Polo in the pool.

There’s a Kid’s Club and special programs offered during summer and school holidays.

Nearby, visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, North Cheyenne Canon Park, the Air Force Academy, Pikes Peak and the U.S. Olympic Training Facility. cheyennemountain. com; visitcos.com 3. Hawaii: On the big island, combine beach time with the chance to witness lava erupting at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where volcanoes Kilauea and Mauna Loa are both active.

Hike or bike up to a viewpoint, to catch the stunning sight of luminous lava pouring into the Pacific Ocean. For a different kind of sensory experience, venture to Maui and spend time with

local farmers growing more than 45 varieties of sweet-smelling lavender.

Take home some of the locally made products to keep the memory alive in the months ahead. marriotthawaii.com 4. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Scottsdale, Ariz.: A 30th birthday bash is underway at this Sonoran desert resort where the fun includes swimming with mermaids, new virtual reality rides, weekend throwback pool parties, dive-in movies and fireworks every Saturday night. You’ll want to dig your toes in the white sand at the Sunset Beach pool or join the festivities at the Sonoran Splash pool where water slides, music and games up the fun factor. Kids can fish in the lagoon, play golf or spend the day at the Trailblazers Kids Club where activities include ping pong, learning about desert wildlife, making s’mores in a solar oven and recreational games. The day ends with an ice cream social.

Sweet treats aside, parents will appreciate the

Lifestyle Cuisine menu for adults and children that focuses on providing healthy choices. With so many festivities underway, adults might want to schedule some quiet time at the Well & Being spa. fairmont.com/scottsdale; experiencescottsdale. com 5. Terranea Resort and Spa, Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.: Perched above the Pacific on 102 acres, the stunning views from this oceanfront oasis are reason enough for a visit.

Check in and enjoy sea kayaking, strolling along the Discovery Trail, the Tide Pool Kids Club and a kid-friendly resort pool. While there are plenty of family dining options on property, grownups will be well served to reserve an evening to enjoy the views from Mar’sel, the perfect venue for a romantic evening. A seaside spa and fitness facility provide coastal-inspired wellness options. terranea.com — Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer.

Would you fly on a pilotless commercial planes?

By LOS ANGELES TIMES

The world’s aviation industry will need to train and deploy more than 600,000 new pilots over the next 20 years. But, then again, the industry might be operating fleets of commercial jets flown by remote control.

Those are the seemingly contradictory outlooks described in separate reports by aerospace giant Boeing and Swiss banking powerhouse UBS. Boeing’s report says global ex-

pansion and increased demand for air travel will require 637,000 new pilots over the next 20 years, with 40 percent of those needed in the Asia-Pacific region and 18 percent needed in North America.

A Boeing representative said the aviation company is not predicting a pilot shortage, but airlines and other aviation groups have said it will be difficult to train and hire all the pilots, crew members and technicians required to meet future demands.

“New market opportunities are creating an increased demand for qualified, skilled and experienced

pilots,” the Boeing report said.

But that many pilots may not be needed after all, according to a report by UBS aviation analysts, who predict that remote-control planes could be carrying cargo and passengers by 2025 and could save the industry up to $35 billion a year.

“In the not-too-distant future, we would expect to see a situation where flights are pilotless or the number of pilots shrinks to one, with a remote pilot based on the ground and highly secure groundto-air communications,” the UBS study said.

Local travel briefs WHATCOM SENIOR TOURS: Whatcom Senior Tours offers trips for seniors. Sign up by calling 360-7334030, ext. 1015, or visit the tour office at 315 Halleck St., Bellingham. n Celebrity Hawaiian Cruise: Sept. 22-Oct. 2. $2,699 per double occupancy inside cabin, $3,099 per double occupancy of ocean-view cabin, or $3,599 per double occupancy balcony cabin. n Rhine & Mosel River Cruise: Sept. 21-Oct. 1. $4,549 per double occupancy outside cabin, $4,949 per double occupancy vista balcony, or $5,249 per double occupancy exterior balcony. n New Orleans and Cajun Country: Nov. 5-11. $2,399 per double occupancy, $3,049 single.

SHORT TRIPS: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation offers travel opportunities for ages 8 and older (adult supervision required for ages 17 and younger). Trips depart from and return to Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. 360-336-6215.

RECREATION WITHOUT BORDERS: The organization offers recreational trips, tours and adventures throughout the Northwest and British Columbia. 360766-7109 or recreationwithoutborders.com.

OAK HARBOR DAY TRIPS: The Oak Harbor Senior Center, 51 SE Jerome St., offers day trips for members.

360-279-4587.

STATE VISITOR CALL CENTER: The Washington Tourism Alliance’s ExperienceWA Call Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. 1-800-544-1800 or tourisminfo@watourismalliance.com.

PASSPORT APPLICATIONS: Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes, accepts new passport applications and applications for passports that have been expired for more than five years by appointment from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays.

Passport forms and information on fees and how to apply are available at travel.state.gov, or pick up an application and passport guide at the library.

Burlington Municipal Court accepts passport applications from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 311 Cedar St., Suite A, Burlington.

Post offices in Mount Vernon, Sedro-Woolley and Oak Harbor accept passport applications by appointment. Contact individual offices for available days and times.

Oak Harbor Senior Center, 51 SE Jerome St., Oak Harbor, accepts passport applications Monday through Friday. Appointments are recommended.

360-279-4580.

Thursday, August 24, 2017 - E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

HOT TICKETS MACEO PARKER: Aug. 24-27, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

ZZ TOP, DOOBIE BROTHERS: Aug. 25, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

KINGS OF LEON: Aug. 26, The Gorge, George.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

FUEL, EVE 6, THE MARCY PLAYGROUND: Aug. 26, Comcast Arena, Everett. 866-332-8499 or xfinityarenaeverett.com.

CHICAGO: Aug. 26-27, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

HUEY LEWIS & THE NEWS: Aug. 26, Tulalip Casino, Tulalip. 800-7453000 or ticketmaster.com.

BUIKA: Aug. 29-30, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

CECLIE MCLORIN SALVANT: Aug. 31-Sept.

3, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

NICKELBACK, DAUGHTRY: Sept. 1, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

GIPSY KINGS: Sept.

1, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

LADY ANTEBELLUM, KELSEA BALLERINI AND BRETT YOUNG: Sept. 2, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

GUNS N’ ROSES, ROYAL BLOOD: Sept. 3, The Gorge, George. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

STEVEN TYLER: Sept.

3, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD SHOW: Sept. 4, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

ARTURO SANDOVAL Sept. 14-17, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

RODEO PLAYOFFS: Sept. 7, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559FAIR or thefair.com.

STEVE WINWOOD: Sept. 8, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

RODEO PLAYOFFS, GRANGER SMITH: Sept.

8, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

FOREIGNER, CHEAP TRICK: Sept. 9, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 360-825-6200 or livenation.com.

RODEO PLAYOFFS, EASTON CORBIN: Sept.

9, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

PINK MARTINI: Sept. 9-10, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

RODEO FINALS: Sept.

10, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

MASTERS OF ILLUSION: Sept. 13, Washington State Fair, Puyallup.

888-559-FAIR or thefair. com.

BEACH BOYS: Sept.

14, Washington State Fair,

Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

ARTURO SANDOVAL: Sept. 14-17, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

SALT ‘N PEPA, VANILLA ICE, COLOR ME BADD, TONE LOC: Sept.

15, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

AARON NEVILLE: Sept.

15-16, Skagit Casino, Bow. 8777-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

GOO GOO DOLLS, PHILLIP PHILLIPS: Sept.

15, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

SAWYER BROWN: Sept. 16, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. tickets@mountbakertheatre. com or 360-734-6080.

HANK WILLIAMS JR., THE CADILLAC THREE: Sept. 16, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888559-FAIR or thefair.com.

CASTING CROWNS, MATTHEW WEST: Sept.

18, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

THOMAS RHETT, MICHAEL RAY: Sept. 20, Washington State Fair,

Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

MODEST MOUSE, BUILT TO SPILL: Sept. 21, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

TAKE SIX: Sept. 21-24, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

LOVERBOY, SURVIVOR: Sept. 22, XFinity Area, Everett. 866-3328499 or xfinityarenaeverett.com.

EARTH, WIND & FIRE: Sept. 22, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888559-FAIR or thefair.com.

GEORGE WINSTON: Sept. 22, Benaroya Hall, Seattle. 206-215-4747 or benaroyahall.org.

TOM JONES: Sept.

23, Paramount Theater, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

MARLON WAYANS: Sept. 23, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888559-FAIR or thefair.com.

JASON ALDEAN, KANE BROWN: Sept. 24, Washington State Fair, Puyallup. 888-559-FAIR or thefair.com.

JANET JACKSON: Sept.

27, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livena-

tion.com.

COLIN HAY: Sept. 2829, Benaroya Hall, Seattle.

206-215-4747 or benaroyahall.org.

KIDZ BOP BEST TIME EVER: Sept. 29, Paramount Theater, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

CITY AND COLOUR: Sept. 29, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. tickets@mountbakertheatre. com or 360-734-6080.

SCORPIONS, MEGADETH: Sept. 30, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

GORILLAZ: Sept. 30, KeyArena, Seattle. 800745-3000 or livenation. com.

EAGLES, DOOBIE BROTHERS: Sept. 30, Safeco Field, Seattle. 800745-3000 or livenation. com.

FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE: Oct. 6, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn.

360-825-6200 or livenation.com.

IMAGINE DRAGONS: Oct. 6, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

EVIL DEAD — THE MUSICAL: Oct. 7, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

LAUREN HILL, NAS: Oct. 10, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

ALT-J: Oct. 12, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

SUN NIL MOON: Oct. 12, Benaroya Hall, Seattle.

206-215-4747 or benaroyahall.org.

EMMYLOU HARRIS: Oct. 13-14, Skagit Casino, Bow. 8777-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

LINKIN PARK, SNOOP DOGG: Oct. 14, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

ARCADE FIRE: Oct. 15, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-

745-3000 or livenation. com.

DEPECHE MODE: Oct. 21, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

LEO KOTTKE: Oct. 31-Nov. 1, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com.

HAUSHKA: Nov. 3, Benaroya Hall, Seattle.

206-215-4747 or benaroyahall.org.

YANNI: Nov. 3, Benaroya Hall, Seattle. 206215-4747 or benaroyahall. org.

JERRY DOUGLAS BAND: Nov. 8, Benaroya Hall, Seattle. 206-2154747 or benaroyahall.org.

HALSEY: Nov. 10, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

FALL OUT BOY: Nov. 12, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

JOE BIDEN: Dec. 3, Benaroya Hall, Seattle.

206-215-4747 or benaroyahall.org.

EMILY HAINES & THE SOFT SKELETON: Nov. 3, Benaroya Hall, Seattle.

206-215-4747 or benaroyahall.org.

JAY-Z: Dec. 13, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA: Dec. 28, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. briansetzer. com.

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS: Dec. 28, XFinity Arena, Everett. 866-3328499 or xfinityarenaeverett.com.

KATY PERRY: Feb. 3, 2018, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

SHANIA TWAIN: May 3, 2018, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

HARRY STYLES: July 7, 2018, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

E12 - Thursday, August 24, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MUSIC

Allison Moorer, Shelby Lynne collaborate on an album, finally

By GREG KOT Chicago Tribune

Allison Moorer and Shelby Lynne are sisters who were singing together while growing up in rural Alabama almost since they could talk. So it may seem incongruous that it took a couple of decades into the singers’ respective solo careers for them to finally collaborate on an album, “Not Dark Yet,” out last week.

“We’ve been working on this record all of our lives,” said Moorer, 45. “I don’t remember a time that I wasn’t singing with my sister. There’s all that history.

Our collective musical memory is really strong, and we wanted to do this for a long time, but our careers took us on different paths. So lining up the right time to do it was the toughest part.”

The sisters have diverged a bit musically: Lynne, 48, has released 13 solo albums dating to 1989 that touch on everything from soul to rock, while Moorer has put out nine albums since 1998 that hew closer to her country and folk roots. But their earliest memories are as harmony singers in a musical household.

The family was shattered when the girls were teenagers — their father and mother died in a murder-suicide after a marital breakup. Both artists have addressed the loss in their music and in interviews, and it partially accounts for some of the new album’s dark tinge. But there’s also a beauty and empathy that surfaces in “Not Dark Yet” that wouldn’t have been possible without their family’s early encouragement.

The sisters’ grandmother was one of 14 children who also learned to sing together from an early age. “We spent a lot of time in her house,” Moorer said.

“She had a family group with our mama, and she tells a story of preparing for a July 4 bicentennial celebration when I was almost 4. They were doing this old song, ‘Heart of my Heart,’ and at the end I just joined in with a perfect chromatic scale. They looked at me like I had two heads.”

As the youngest member of the family “choir,” Moorer found herself drawn naturally to harmony singing. “You can’t teach it,” she said. “My grandmother says by the time I was 3 years old I was singing harmony. We spent a lot of time driving around with my mother.

ANDY KROPA

Sisters Allison Moorer (left) and Shelby Lynne have released their first collaboration, “Not Dark Yet.”

We didn’t have a radio in the car, so we would sing together.”

When it came time to record with Lynne, the sisters’ voices blended like they’d never been apart. “There’s this thing about sibling harmony — there is the same tone, timbre, and any two people can sing together and it could be pretty, but it’s not electric,” Moorer said. “When you have the same DNA it buzzes — the mix, the chemistry — and it’s also emotional.”

The wildly diverse songs they chose to interpret on “Not Dark Yet” (from the Louvin Brothers’ “Every Time You Leave” to Nirvana’s “Lithium,” plus one original) turn those emotions into a loose narrative about the sisters’ lives.

Here’s Moorer’s take on some of the key tracks, and why they ended up on the album: Merle Haggard’s “Silver Wings”: “There were things we wanted to pull in from childhood — the Louvin Brothers, Jessi Colter, Merle Haggard. I don’t remember a time in my life when I didn’t know who Merle was. We had the good fortune of having tapes of us singing when we were very small, and in one in particular we were singing ‘Silver Wings’ with our daddy. He said, ‘Allison, who sings that song?’ And you can hear me saying, ‘Merle Hagwood.’ I couldn’t have been more than 3.”

The Killers’ “List”: “I was into this HBO show and that song came on as the end title of an episode. It just hit my

nerves. Tears shot out of my eyes like a cartoon or something. It’s a fantastic way to describe a relationship carved in stone. It made me think of my sister and how I think about her — you can’t get rid of each other even if you wanted to, and we wouldn’t want to. I wanted to throw it in the pile, but sissy told me later, ‘I’m not sold on that.’ It took me sitting down with a guitar and playing it, to show how we can turn this rock anthem into something that works for us.”

Bob Dylan’s “Not Dark Yet”: “That song is so special because the character that emerges is this beaten up yet stoic being. There is this energy that is so knowing, the kind of character who is very familiar with the idea that things fall apart and then you grow through it and change. I think we both have that sort of personality. Certainly the things we lived through together, there are some not great happenings. It represents this quiet strength. And also this feeling that who knows what’s going to take me down, but something will. But there is also hope there, which I think this album has.”

Nirvana’s “Lithium”: “Sissy brought that to the table. I discovered that (Nick Cave’s) ‘Into my Arms,’ (Townes Van Zandt’s) ‘Lungs’ and ‘Lithium’ all have the common denominator of God. We never spoke about that as a reason to sing those songs, yet there it is. I know maybe people don’t think of those songs in a spiritual sense, but it’s there. We take the songs seriously, Nirvana and Kurt (Cobain) seriously, but we were letting loose on that — it’s one take. It’s busy and screwed up, and we had a ball.”

“Is it Too Much,” the album’s sole original: “We tried to make an album together six years ago, and it just wasn’t time. We were writing together, and it didn’t work. But now having written ‘Is it Too Much,’ we’re ready to write together. I hope that’s the next step.

We put that song last, because the best endings are beginnings. That was sissy’s song. She had the verses and I wrote a bridge. She’s so tender and caring toward me in the words. It seemed like a perfect way to say when you can’t lift yourself up I’ll do it for you. There’s only two of us. We grew up in the middle of the woods with no other kids around, so we spent a lot of our early lives with each other. We had each other to rely on, and only each other. That song encapsulates our relationship.”

REVIEWS KESHA, “Rainbow” — It’s hard not to root for Kesha, the over-the-top pop star who is still stuck in the middle of a never-ending legal battle with her former producer Lukasz “Dr. Luke” Gottwald (she accused him of sexual and emotional abuse in 2014). After expressing her frustration on a F- the World tour in 2016, the “Tik Tok” and “Die Young” singer (both of those songs, by the way, were co-written and produced by Dr. Luke) has carried on with this set of empowerment anthems and stylistically varied party tracks that send a clear message that she’s now the one in charge.

“Rainbow” is arresting from the start, with the clenched-fist opener “Bastards,” a statement of purpose that vows to get on with it (“I could fight forever, but life’s too short”) before building from a solo guitar strum to an affirmative power ballad crescendo. “Woman” is profane and proud, putting the Dap-Kings’ horns employed by the late Sharon Jones to righteous and rousing use, as Kesha declares her independent womanhood in celebratory terms. And “Hymn” (“for the hymnless”) is nearly as effective as a communal rallying cry for the marginalized.

For the most part, the multicolored “Rainbow” is winningly eclectic, though it has moments of banality, with “Praying” and the title track.

What-will-she-do-next unpredictability largely serves her well, however. One minute the singer is pairing up with heavy rock outfit Eagles of Death Metal on the chugging “Boogie Feet”; the next, she’s teaming up with Dolly Parton for a remake of “Old Flames (Can’t Hold a Candle to You),” a 1980 hit for the country queen that turns out to have been written by Kesha’s mother, Pebe Sebert.

— Dan DeLuca, The Philadelphia Inquirer PAUL KELLY, “Life Is Fine” — For such a prolific songwriter, it’s a bit ironic that Paul Kelly names his new album after the one song he didn’t write.

“Life Is Fine” has lyrics by the poet Langston Hughes. That oddity aside, the album maintains the Australian’s typically high standards.

“Life Is Fine” showcases Kelly’s ability to display depth and range in seemingly effortless fashion.

At one end of the musical spectrum, “Finally Something Good” and “Josephina” have a light, infectious pop touch, and at the other, “My Man’s Got a Cold” is raw, percussive blues (it’s sung by Vika Bull, who along with her sister Linda provides muscular backup vocals throughout).

Numbers such as the rocking “Rising Moon” and “Firewood and Candles” reveal Kelly’s gift for narrative storytelling, while “I Smell Trouble” is mesmerizingly evocative. And on “Leah: The Sequel,” Kelly again looks to another writer, but instead of borrowing words, he uses Roy Orbison’s “Leah” as inspiration for a tale of his own, which turns out to be nearly as beguiling as the original.

— Nick Cristiano, The Philadelphia Inquirer

Thursday, August 24, 2017 - E13

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

AT THE LINCOLN

DINING GUIDE !

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FOOD • OYSTERS • BURGERS STEAKS • SEAFOOD • SALADS

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$2 discount for Lincoln members.

Wahlberg is Forbes’ top-earning actor of 2017

By LOS ANGELES TIMES

LOS ANGELES — Mark Wahlberg is sitting on top of the Rock on Forbes’ 2017 highest-paid actors list.

The rapper-turned-actor earned an estimated $68 million between June 2016 and June 2017, the financial mag reported, edging out last year’s top earner,

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

That figure sums up the Boston native’s paydays from the forthcoming comedy “Daddy’s Home 2” and action flick “Transformers: The Last Knight,” plus earnings from his AT&T endorsement deal and his family’s A&E reality series, “Wahlburgers.” Incidentally, his “Transformers” outing was the lowest-grossing film of the franchise to date.

Enjoy the Season!

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LOCAL LIVE MUSIC CHECK LISTINGS

aneliaskitchenandstage.com OPEN 11AM WED-MON Kitchen open until last call 513 1st Street, La Conner 360-399-1805

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LITTLE MOUNTAIN onLy at goskagit.com/deaLs

422-6411 18247 State Route 9 Mount Vernon

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7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31 Theater Arts Guild celebrates 25 years of bringing live theater to the Skagit Valley, reliving some some of its best moments over the past quarter-century. Reserved tickets $15-$25.

— The Lincoln Theatre is located at 712 S. First St., downtown Mount Vernon. lincolntheatre. org or 360-336-8955.

FRI. 8/25 7:30PM CHARLIE HODGE PERFORMS NEIL DIAMOND WEDS. 8/30 6PM SWINGNUTS FRI. 9/1 8PM BRETT BENTON

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Theater Arts Guild Silver Celebration

Coming up at The Rockfish Grill and H2O:

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7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 27 7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 28 “Maudie,” based on a true story, is an unlikely romance in which the reclusive Everett Lewis (Ethan Hawke) hires a fragile yet determined woman named Maudie (Sally Hawkins) to be his housekeeper.

Maudie, bright-eyed but hunched with crippled hands, yearns to be independent, to live away from her protective family and

yearns, passionately, to create art. Unexpectedly, Everett finds himself falling in love. “Maudie” charts Everett’s efforts to protect himself from being hurt, Maudie’s deep and abiding love for this difficult man and her surprising rise to fame as a folk painter.

Stars Sally Hawkins, Ethan Hawke, Kari Matchett, Gabrielle Rose and Zachary Bennett.

Rated PG-13. $10.50 general; $9.50 seniors, students and active military; $8 children 12 and under. Sunday bargain prices: $9 general, $7.50 children 12 and under.

conway Pub & Eatery • open mon-sun 9am-2am 18611 main, conway wa 98238 • 360.445.4733

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The Lincoln will show “Maudie” on Friday, Sunday and Monday.

or Conway Boxcar

E14 - Thursday, August 24, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES

NEW THIS WEEK

MINI-REVIEWS

‘Crown Heights’ is a story that must be told

By RICK BENTLEY Tribune News Service

One of the most fundamental foundations of the legal system – known as the Blackstone ratio because of 18th century English jurist William Blackstone – is that it is better for 10 guilty persons to get away free than for one innocent man to suffer. Even with that guiding principle, there are an estimated 120,000 innocent people in prison.

“Crown Heights” looks at one such case.

The film from director Matt Ruskin (“Booster”) is based on the true story of Colin Warner, a native of Trinidad living near Crown Heights, who was tried and convicted in 1980 for a murder he didn’t commit. It was only through the relentless efforts of his best friend to get the sentence overturned that Warner became a free man after more than two decades in prison.

Ruskin, who also wrote the script, does an excellent job taking the story from the arrest to the release. He provides great detail of how the police were so determined to solve the murder, they manipulated testimony and manufactured eyewitness accounts. The film also follows Carl King (Nnamdi Asomugha) as he takes any small opening to seek out the truth in regards to his childhood friend.

His obsession with getting his friend released pushes

IFC FILMS VIA AP

Lakeith Stanfield and Natalie Paulin are shown in a scene from “Crown Heights.”

him to the point where it even threatens his own marriage.

All of this takes place as Warner (Lakeith Stanfield) — whose biggest crime had been being a two-bit thief — must deal with the brutal life behind bars. It’s an emotional and physical journey that tries to change Warner but he survives by clinging to the undeniable truth that he did not commit the crime for which he was found guilty.

Stanfield’s performance is the solid foundation for the film. He’s required to go from a wide-eyed innocent to a man with no energy to keep fighting and Stanfield responds with a performance that is so rich in honesty that the only person who could have done the role with more authenticity would have been the real Warner.

Equally strong is Asomugha who brings a quiet courage to his performance. He makes it very easy to believe

that his character would be so motivated by his frustrations with the legal system and his fears that another such a travesty could befall him or other innocent people that no obstacle in his search for truth and justice will make him waiver. What Ruskin has presented is a story that is as compelling as it is necessary.

But the film does need more context. There’s only a quick glimpse of Warner’s life before his arrest and that doesn’t give the audience a broad enough portrait of the man. More details about the diversity of the community where the events happened, what was going on in the New York political world at the time or even some facts about family history would have given the story more depth.

Ruskin’s direction and story are a little rushed as he skips through 20 years of history and events. He does toss in a few scenes that point to the changes

in political views as to the necessity to get tougher on crime. But none of that is mixed well enough with Warner’s story.

The director also rushes to get to the end. It’s only through a parole hearing that it’s revealed Warner has had to take on a mantel of violence to survive. An even bigger lack of background has to do with Warner’s love and marriage to Antoinette (Natalie Paul). Their relationship is touching but never fully explored.

As for the general look of the production, Ruskin’s approach is very basic and he never ventures to push the camera into more interesting angles. He methodically links together the necessary scenes to tell the story. There’s nothing that mandates an alternative look is necessary especially when the story is this interesting.

“Crown Heights” ends up being a film that will cause conversations as soon as it’s seen but doesn’t have the visual sizzle to give it a more lasting feel.

The fact that “Crown Heights” is casting light on such a horrid miscarriage of justice is worth praise. And if that wasn’t enough, the production gets a boost from standout performances by Stanfield and Asomugha. Both are enough to make “Crown Heights” worthy of the time and attention it is bringing to a story that needs to be told.

— 1:39. Rated: R for language, nudity, violence.

HHH (out of four stars).

Compiled from news services.

Ratings are 1 to 4 stars.

“Terminator 2: Judgment Day” — Should you really go to the theater and pay 2017 prices for the new 3-D version of a 1991 movie? Absolutely. The 3-D is occasionally impressive, but what matters most is the brilliance of the film itself, a time-traveling sci-fi actioner with stunning special effects and a nifty, at times wonderfully, head-spinning plot. Sci-fi action, R, 130 minutes. HHHH “Marjorie Prime” — In this unique psychological journey, Lois Smith gives a nomination-worthy performance as a woman near the end of her life who spends many an hour hashing over the past with a computer-generated hologram of her late husband. It’s one of the strangest, most disturbing and most thought-provoking films of 2017. Sci-fi drama, not rated, 99 minutes.

HHH ½ “Ingrid Goes West” — An obsessed stalker (Aubrey Plaza, alternately charming and sad and pathetic and absolutely insane) meets the internet trendsetter she worships (perfectly cast Elizabeth Olsen) and manages to become her bestie. It’s a smart and darkly amusing comedy that grows crazier and crazier. Comedy, R, 97 minutes. HHH ½ “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” — Through a series of contrived circumstances, a security specialist (Ryan Reynolds) is enlisted to transport an assassin (Samuel L. Jackson) to a war criminal’s trial. There’s nothing and no one to like in this blunt, ultraviolent, obnoxious empty vessel of a movie. Action comedy, R, 111 minutes. H ½ “Good Time” — A bank robbery by a sociopath (Robert Pattinson) and his mentally challenged brother (Benny Safdie, also the co-director with his brother Josh) sets off a chain of bizarre and occasionally wickedly funny events. Ultimately, the sometimes clever story runs out of steam and limps across the finish line. Crime drama, R, 101 minutes. HH ½ “Logan Lucky” — In what plays like a biscuits-and-gravy take on “Ocean’s 11,” a couple of twangtalkin’ dirt-kickers (Channing Tatum and Adam Driver) plan to steal the cash from a North Carolina speedway vault. Steven Soderbergh’s breezy heist romp is great fun and one of the most purely entertaining movies of the year. Crime caper, PG-13, 119 minutes. HHH ½ “Patti Cake$” — Danielle Macdonald is an absolute force as Patti, a New Jersey 20-something dreaming of hip-hop stardom against all odds, with Bridget Everett stunningly good as her bitter, hard-drinking, beenaround-the-block single mother. This is “Hustle and Flow” and “8 Mile,” Jersey-style. Drama, R, 108 minutes.

HHH “The Glass Castle” — The well-made adaptation of journalist Jeannette Walls’ memoir doesn’t shy away from some of the more shocking and tragic episodes from her upbringing. But when it tries to celebrate her cruel father’s supposed bohemian idealism and love for his children, it rings sour and false. Drama, PG-13, 127 minutes. HH

Thursday, August 24, 2017 - E15

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES

REVIEW

At area theaters ANACORTES CINEMAS Aug. 25-31 Annabelle: Creation (R): 4:10, 6:35, 9:05 The Big Sick (R): 1:30, 4:00, 6:30, 9:00 Despicable Me 3 (PG): 1:40 Megan Leavey (PG-13): 1:35, 4:05, 6:40, 9:15 360-293-7000 OAK HARBOR CINEMAS Aug. 25-31 Annabelle: Creation (R): Friday-Sunday: 1:35, 4:10, 6:40, 9:15; Monday-Thursday: 1:35, 4:10, 6:40 Despicable Me 3 (PG): 1:40 Baby Driver (R): Friday-Sunday: 3:55, 6:30, 9:05; MondayThursday: 3:55, 6:30 Megan Leavey (PG-13): Friday-Sunday: 1:30, 4:05, 6:50, 9:25; Monday-Thursday: 1:30, 4:05, 6:50 360-279-2226 CASCADE MALL THEATERS Burlington For showings: amctheatres. com/showtimes/all/201706-23/amc-loews-cascademall-14/all

CONCRETE THEATRE Aug. 25-27 Atomic Blonde (R): Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: 5 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 5 p.m.

360-941-0403 STANWOOD CINEMAS Aug. 25-31 The Nut Job 2: Nutty By Nature (PG): 1:40 Wind River (R): 1:10, 3:55, 7:00, 9:50 Dunkirk (PG-13): 3:50, 6:40, 9:10 The Big Sick (R): 1:20, 4:10, 7:10, 9:35 Megan Leavey (PG-13): 1:30, 4:05, 6:50, 9:25 Wonder Woman (PG-13): 1:00, 4:00, 6:30, 9:30 360-629-0514 BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Oak Harbor Aug. 25-27 Grease and American Graffiti First show starts at approximately 8:45 p.m.

360-941-0403 * Times are subject to change

“Whose Streets?” — Instead of revisiting the police shooting of Michael Brown in 2014, this raw, powerful documentary focuses on the residents of Ferguson, Missouri, who reacted by galvanizing a movement on the streets of their town and via social media. It’s filled with telling vignettes that sting the soul and tear at your conscience. Documentary, R, 100 minutes. HHH ½ “Pilgrimage” — In the 13th century, Irish monks face all manner of opposition during a perilous journey to deliver a relic to Rome. Tom “Spider-Man” Holland does fine work as an earnest young novice, but Jon Bernthal owns the screen as a mute protecting the relic and his brothers at all costs.

Adventure drama, not rated, 96 minutes. HHH “Maudie” — Treated as an outcast, a fisherman’s housekeeper (Sally Hawkins) in Nova Scotia becomes something of a celebrity for her paintings. This is one of the most beautiful, life-affirming, uplifting movies of the year, capable of moving us to tears of appreciation for getting to know the title subject. Biography, PG-13, 117 minutes. HHH ½ “Wind River” — An FBI investigator (Elizabeth Olsen) needs help from a wildlife agent (Jeremy Renner) to find a girl’s killer in the snows of Wyoming. It’s a stark and beautiful and haunting 21st-century thriller, filled with memorable visuals and poetic dialogue — and scenes of sudden, shocking, brutal violence. Western thriller, R, 111 minutes. HHHH “Brigsby Bear” — Kyle Mooney from “Saturday Night Live” stars as a man in his 20s devoted to an old Saturday morning children’s show. A little too precious by half at times, “Brigsby” wins the day thanks in large part to the sharp and original screenplay, and the uniformly fine work from an interesting cast including Mark Hamill, Michaela Watkins and Greg Kinnear. Comedy drama, PG-13, 97 minutes. HHH

Those who worked with the talented performer shed light on ‘Whitney’

By KENNETH TURAN Los Angeles Times

The life and too-early death of singer Whitney Houston was a train wreck that lots of people say they saw coming but that no one was able to stop.

Dead at age 48 in her Beverly Hilton hotel room, Houston was as celebrated as she was gifted, and as clips from the documentary “Whitney: Can I Be Me?” demonstrate, her musical abilities were extraordinary.

As more than one person says, her voice sounded like it came directly from God. Co-directed by Nick Broomfield and Rudi Dolezal and playing a qualifying theatrical run before airing on Showtime, “Whitney’s” story makes for strong and compelling viewing even though it has something of a cobbled-together feel to it.

Houston’s trajectory has uncanny echoes of the tragedy of Amy Winehouse, but “Whitney” is not the seamless piece of work Asif Kapadia’s Oscar-winning “Amy” was.

Aside from stock and home movie footage, this film is divided between on-camera interviews conducted by veteran documentarian Bloomfield (“Tales of the Grim Sleeper,” “Biggie and Tupac” plus many others) and never-before-seen footage of Houston’s

legendary 1999 European tour by music video veteran and co-director Dolezal.

That footage has some extraordinary performance moments, including Houston’s heartbreaking rendition of “I Will Always Love You” from the tour’s Frankfurt stop that opens the film and lifts you off your feet.

Broomfield, for his part, was hampered by the fact that he was not able to interview key people in Houston’s life, including ex-husband Bobby Brown, her closest friend Robyn Crawford, and Clive Davis, the Svengali who began her career. So he shrewdly chose to go another route.

The director has elicited candid, emotional interviews with those who worked with Houston, including members of her band and her personal retinue. (David Roberts, her longtime personal security and the model for Kevin Costner’s character in Houston’s breakout film “The Bodyguard,” is especially frank.)

Though stories of extensive drug use and sexual tensions can make the film feel exploitative at times, the gap between Houston’s enormous talent and her truncated life means that more than anything else the tale related here will simply make you sad.

“Whitney actually died from a broken heart,” one of her band members says, and that seems like it could actually be true.

Broomfield’s take, as his film’s plaintive title indicates, is that managing the ever-increasing gap between who the singer was and who the people who made money off her — including her family — wanted her to be, became too much for her to handle, a situation drug use did nothing to improve.

Though mainstream America perceived her as a princess, Houston was born in Newark, N.J., and, more than one interviewee says, “came from the hood.”

Born into a musical family (Dionne Warwick was her cousin), Houston was taught to sing by her mother Cissy, a domineering figure who was herself a Grammy-winning gospel singer. Though singing in the church was important to the young girl, her two older brothers admit early drug use, and the implication is that she became involved as well.

Houston met Crawford, who was to become her closest friend, confidant and protector, while they were both in high school.

The film inconclusively speculates that they might have been lovers as well, but what everyone agrees on is that the relationship with Crawford was a safe place Houston could count on.

The singer was signed to an Arista recording contract by Davis when she was but 19, young enough to be moldable by him into a crossover pop artist who was not

allowed to “sound too black,” according to Arista executives.

From a commercial point of view, that ploy was successful, leading to more consecutive No. 1 hits than the Beatles, but there was backlash in the black community, which culminated in Houston being booed at the 1989 Soul Train awards show.

“That moment was devastating,” says saxophonist Kirk Whalum.

“I don’t think she ever recovered. When the boxes are ticked on why she perished, that was a big one.”

That Soul Train evening was also when Houston met Bobby Brown, a singer with a bad-boy image. Their connection to each other was undeniable — they married and had a daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, who died in 2015 of “undetermined” causes — but the film says he did not help in the substance abuse area.

More critically, as impromptu footage of them together makes clear, Brown and Crawford were oil and water.

Crawford was out of the picture by 2000, and that crucial support was missed as the marriage crumbled and the drug problem went unsolved.

Despite all the money she had made for so many people, no one around her was able to step in and make a difference. A familiar story, perhaps, but always a tragic one.

E16 - Thursday, August 24, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

The votes are in...

Join us on September 20th when we announce the winners We are announcing all of the SKAGIT’S BEST winners at a special Award Ceremony in September.

We hope you join us to celebrate and network!

Wednesday, September 20, 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Eaglemont Golf Course Mount Vernon 1660598

Tickets available for purchase at goskagit.com/tickets