360 March 23, 2017

HAWAIIAN SOUNDS TO FILL THE LINCOLN This Weekend, Page 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday March 23, 2017

TUNING UP PAGE 9 Rafael Tranquilino plays H20 in Anacortes on Saturday ON STAGE PAGE 8

Catch Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ at the Lincoln Theatre this weekend

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NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK meaning in memories “Sing”: A toe-tapUpcoming of ancestors leads to ping film that’s “Zootospecial skills. pia” meets “American movie releases “Lion”: After being Idol.” It’s charming and Following is a partial separated from his entertaining as long as schedule of DVD releases. family for 25 years, a the music is playing. (dates subject to change): young man searches for The quieter bits beMARCH 28 his home. tween the songs come n Fantastic Beasts and “Office Christmas across as being slightly Where to Find Them Party”: What happens out of rhythm. The n Why Him? at an office Christmas good thing is that there n Patriots Day party doesn’t often stay are barely any moments n Silence at the party. when a gorilla, porcun 20th Century Women “The Delinquents”: pine, pig or camel isn’t n A Monster Calls Robert Altman’s 1957 belting out a tune. n A Tale of Love and film about a young man Seeing a crass Darkness who gets involved with menagerie of singing n Archer: Season 7 a juvenile gang. animals belting out n Arsenal “Live By Night”: pop tunes is when n Planet Earth II Man climbs the ladder the film is at its zany APRIL 4 in organized crime best. There’s a trio of n Rogue One: A Star world. Ben Affleck stars. frogs performing Van Wars Story “Tales of the TeenHalen’s “Jump,” a snail n Office Christmas age Mutant Ninja belting out the ChristoParty Turtles Super Shredpher Cross tune “Ride n Paterson der”: Turtles face their Like the Wind,” three n The Bounce Back biggest enemy — Super provocative bunnies n DCI Banks: Season 5 Shredder. performing Nicki n Don’t Hang Up “When Calls the Minaj’s “Anaconda” and n Don’t Kill It Heart: The Heart a sheep bleating Seal’s n Book of Love of Faith”: Romantic “Kiss From a Rose.” n We Don’t Belong adventure from author Overall, “Sing” is fun Here Janette Oke. and energetic, has posi“Blast-Off”: The tive story elements and 1967 film by Don Sharp is beautifully crafted. is now available on Blu-ray.

All of this means “Sing” will be a hit “The Brokenwood Mysteries, with creatures great and small.

Series 3”: Detective tries to deal with “Robocop 2” and “Robocop 3”: crime in a small town. Neill Rea stars.

Both sequels to the 1987 film starring “Split”: A look at the traumas Peter Weller as the half man/half women face and the struggle to overrobot fail to generate the same action come them. and dry humor.

“Wolf Creek: Season One”: AmerPart two is slightly better as Weller ican college student vows to bring reprises his role as Officer Alex J. serial killer Mick Taylor to justice.

Murphy. He must deal with even “Phaedra”: Jules Dassin’s tale of a more problems in Detroit when a new powerful shipowner and his impenddesigner drug called “nuke” hits the ing marriage. streets. The film hits a major bump “Ali & Nino”: Hopes that their when Robocop must face an evil verstrong bond of love will be enough sion of himself. begins to fade for a couple dealing Part 3 slips even more off the table with religious prejudice. as the focus becomes how Robocop “Julieta”: Mother faces mystery of must deal with corporate greed. Robher long alienation from her daughter. ert John Burke takes over the role and just can’t give the character the kind of Emma Suarez stars.

“Won Ton Ton, The Dog That authority and pathos Weller brought Saved Hollywood”: A dog becomes to the part. a star in Hollywood.

Both are still worth a look.

“House: Two Stories Limited Edi“Miss Sloane”: Powerful lobbyist tion”: Includes “House” and House II: shakes up Washington, D.C. Jessica the second Story.”

Chastain stars.

— Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee “Assassin’s Creed”: Search for

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

TUNING UP / Page 9

Deception Past plays Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon in Stanwood on Saturday night

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

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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THIS WEEKENDin the area HAWAIIAN SOUNDS AT THE LINCOLN Slack key guitarists Keola Beamer and Jeff Peterson will perform at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 26, at the Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., downtown Mount Vernon.

One is a Hawaiian legend who has stretched the boundaries of slack key guitar music while remaining true to the soul of its deeply Hawaiian roots, according to a news release. The other is a rising star of the next generation of slack key players, who uses the style’s open tunings to explore multiple genres with ease and flair.

Together, they will present an evening of guitar playing that explores the beauty of Hawaiian music as it reflects its native land, the range of Hawaii’s many cultural influences, and the complexity of technique that has shaped the distinctively resonant sounds of Hawaii.

They will be joined by dancer Moanalani Beamer, who brings hula and Hawaiian chants to the stage, and adds musical texture with ancient Hawaiian instruments. The evening will also feature hula from Northwest Hawai’i ‘Ohana Dance Company and Halau Hula O Lono. $20-$35. Lincoln and Northwest Hawai’i ‘Ohana members receive a $2 discount. lincolntheatre.org or 360-336-8955.

HOME AND GARDEN SHOW The 37th annual SICBA Home & Garden Show will take place March 24-26 at the Skagit County Fairgrounds, 1410 Virginia St., Mount Vernon.

The event will feature exhibits, Master Gardeners, plants and flowers for sale, live music and food vendors. There will also be several speakers, including retired Navy Captain and astronaut Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper. Hours: noon to 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday. SICBAHomeShow.com.

DANCING, PARKINSON’S AND AUTISM Julie Wenzel, executive director for Fidalgo DanceWorks, will present “Dancing, Parkinson’s and Autism – Keeping Healthy Through Dance” at the scholarship fundraiser for the Anacortes Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). The event will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 25, at the Anacortes Senior Activity Center, 1701 22nd St. $15 at the door.

ALL-CLUB GARAGE SALE The Mount Vernon High School clubs will host the fourth annual All-Club Garage Sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 25, at the school cafeteria, 314 N. Ninth St.

MONDAY LUNCHTIME DANCE

PICASA PHOTO

Jeff Peterson (left), Moanalani Beamer and Keola Beamer perform Sunday, March 26, at the Lincoln Theatre.

Swingnuts Jazz will perform from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, March 27, at the Angel of the Winds Casino, 3438 Stoluckquamish Lane, Arlington.

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OUT & ABOUT

ART

ART — LISA MCSHANE PAINTINGS: Lisa McShane’s oil paintings are featured during March at Smith & Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Avenue, Edison. McShane has had various solo shows and group shows throughout galleries in Skagit and Whatcom County, and her work has been included in many exhibitions at the Museum of Northwest Art and The Whatcom Museum.

HEYNE AND KIKUCHI: i.e. gallery, 5800 Cains Court, Edison, will host work by Juliana Heyne and Louise Kikuchi from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, March 24-26.

Heyne’s show “Driving in Iceland” features pieces from her stay in rural Iceland. Kikuchi’s show “Horizon Line” focuses on the line that demarcates the planet from the universe. ieedison.com.

SPRING ART SHOW: The annual Spring Art Show will open with a gala reception from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 25, and continue through April 30 at the River Gallery, 19313 Landing Road, Mount Vernon. The show will feature paintings, sculptures, jewelry and glass art by local and regional artists. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday through Sunday. 360-466-4524 or rivergallerywa.com.

REXVILLE ART SHOW: The Rexville Art Show, featuring fine arts and crafts by 23 local artists, will take place from Friday, March 31, until Sunday, April 9. An opening night reception

with the artists and live music is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 31, at 1929 Rexville Grange Road, Mount Vernon. Regular gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. rexvillegrangeartshow.

FOR THE LOVE OF CHILDREN: Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum, 703 S. Second St., La Conner, will feature the exhibit “For the Love of Children,” featuring the work of Japanese fiber artist Miwako Kimura and 10 of her students, from March 29 through June 25. The exhibit will open with a reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 29. Kimura and her students will host a workshop from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, March 30, at La Conner Country Inn, 107 N. Second St. The workshop will teach attendees how to complete four projects, including a wall hanging and dolls made with vintage Kimono silk. Register at qfamuseum.org/workshops.

Museum hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

ART BASH: A Skagit Artists Together show will be held upstairs at the Farmhouse Restaurant, 13724 La Conner Whitney Road, from March 31 to April 23.

An opening reception will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 31. skagitart.com.

EARTH ELEMENTS: Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park, 2345 Blanche Way, Camano Island, will host the show “Earth Elements,” featuring Asian-influenced contemporary crafts,

Celtic Celebration

Reid garners inspiration from the rural landscape of Skagit County, the Cascade Mountains and the intertidal regions of the Salish Sea. RAVEN ROCKS GALLERY: Raven Rocks Gallery, 765 Wonn Road C-101, Greenbank, will present “Fibers Full and Fine” until April 4. The show will feature new tapestry wall hangings and extemporaneous needlepoints by Windwalker Taibi. 360-222-0102 or ravenrocksgallery.com.

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Geoffrey Castle’s third annual Celtic Celebration, which serves as a fundraiser for local first responders, will be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 25, at Kennelly Keys, 1904 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Castle will perform with his allstar band and the Seattle Irish Dance Company. Guest emcee will be Anacortes town crier Richard Riddell. Tickets $25, available through brownpapertickets.com or at Anacortes Brewery. Information: pugetsoundproductions@ gmail.com or 360-708-7770.

paintings and Shibori wearables, until April 16.

The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

THE GOOD STUFF: The Good Stuff Arts, 604 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, will host its new show “Spring Has Sprung” during March.

Artists include Cynthia Richardson, Ellen Dale, Greg Dugan, Randy Emmons, Abi Gomez, Gus Gosanko, Peggie Hunnicutt, Linda Husk,

Shannon Kirby, Michael Laboon, Jesse Link, Terry Mac Donald, Jill McDougall, Ron Moore, Ruth Owen, Suzanne Powers, Wendy Ross, Carla Seaton, Sherry Shipley, Annette Tamm, Gail Thein, Maria Wickwire and Peggy Wood. 360-755-3152.

ACME CREATIVE: Cut paper artist Ann Reid will be featured during March at ACME Creative at 705 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

ART AT MoNA: Three exhibitions continue through March 26 at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday. Free admission. 360-466-4446 or monamuseum.org. n Paul Havas: A Life of Painting: The exhibit honors the 40-year career of an artist known for his large-scale landscapes and cityscapes. n Indigenous Influences: The exhibit looks at works from MoNA’s permanent collection that are influenced by Pacific Northwest indigenous communities. n Continuum: Glass from the Permanent Collection: Selections of glass from the permanent collection with an emphasis on continuum — of the medium of glass, of the continuity of forms, and of tradition through to innovation.

EXHIBITS AT QUILT MUSEUM: Two new exhibits — “It’s Not Easy Being Green” and “Elemental” by the Millinery

Artisan Guild of the Pacific Northwest — open this month at the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum, 703 S. Second St., La Conner.

The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday to Sunday. qfamuseum.org.

LECTURES AND TALKS GARDENING TALKS: The Mount Vernon City Library, 315 Snoqualmie St., will host a series of gardening programs presented by Skagit County Master Gardeners: n Learn how to be successful with squarefoot gardening and container gardening, including vertical planting, presented by Harriet Custer at 6 p.m.

Monday, March 27. n Learn tips and solutions for successfully growing roses in Skagit County, presented by Vigene Link at 6 p.m.

Monday, April 3. n Valerie Rose will discuss growing vegetables and flowers from seeds at 6 p.m. Monday, April 17.

AT VILLAGE BOOKS: Village Books, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, will host the following readings: n Serge Alternês will discuss his new book “Live Souls: Citizens & Volunteers of Civil War Spain,” with the story and photographs of his father, humanitarian-volunteer Alec Wainman, at 7 p.m.

Friday, March 24. n Chevy Stevens will discuss her new book “Never Let You Go,” at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 26. n Jon Morris will discuss his new graphic novel “The Legion of Regrettable Supervillains” at 7 p.m. Friday, March 31.

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OUT & ABOUT POLITICAL GENDER WATCH: Women’s Funding Alliance will host the Political Gender Watch Tour, a bipartisan conversation about women in politics, at 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 28, at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E College Way, Mount Vernon. Debbie Walsh will join local female leaders to talk about their experience in public office. $10. wfalliance.org.

HARBOR PORPOISES: Cindy Elliser, research director of the Pacific Mammal Research organization in Anacortes, will speak on the harbor porpoise at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, at Burlington Public Library, 820 East Washington Ave. Free.

WEDNESDAY EVENING PROGRAMS: Anacortes Public Library hosts a series of programs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at the library, 1220 Tenth St., Anacortes.

Free. No library services available. Next up: n April 5: Feng Shui Tips for Home and Business. n April 12: Art, Therapy, Wellness: The Art of Journaling. n April 19: Whose Lane Is It? Sharing the Road with Cyclists. n April 26: Get the Best Shots from Your Camera.

GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY ANNIVERSARY: Join the Skagit Valley Genealogical Society for its 30th anniversary celebration from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at Burlington Public Library, 820 E. Washington Ave. Burlington. Genealogist Donna-Poter Phillips will discuss the society’s achievements over the past three

decades. Free, open to the public. skagitvalleygenealogy.org.

ISLAND NATION OF PALAU: The Anacortes Sister Cities Association will present “The Island Nation of Palau” at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 6, at the Anacortes Public LIbrary, 1220 10th St. Barbara Smart, a retired U.S. government geospatial analyst (cartographer), spent five years traveling throughout South East Asia on the USS Blue Ridge with the US Navy. She will talk about her travels to Palau, where she visited the World War II battlefield of Pelieu, walked through jungles and swam in a jellyfish lake.

MUSIC GUTHRIE IN CONCERT: Folk singer Arlo Guthrie will perform at 7 p.m Thursday, April 20, at Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $30.50 to $42.50. 360734-6080 or tickets@ mountbakertheatre. com.

VANESSA WILLIAMS: Vanessa Williams will perform at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 21-22, at the Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Ln, Bow. $76 to $85. 877275-2448 or theskagit. com.

PLAYS “MEN ARE FROM MARS, WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 24-25, McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $50-60. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“CINDERELLA EN ESPAÑA” BY SEATTLE OPERA: 2 p.m. Saturday, March 25, Marysville Opera House, 1225 Third St., Marysville.

Free, preregistration required. 360-363-8400.

“WINGS OF COURAGE”: 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Monday, March 27, Mount Baker Theate, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham.

Produced by Mad River Theatre Works, the play is based on Eugene Bullard, the first African-American combat pilot and adventurer. $6 and $7.50. 360-7346080 or tickets@mountbakertheatre.com.

“DON GIOVANNI”: The Pacific Northwest Opera will present “Don Giovannia” at 7:30 p.m.

Fridays, March 31 and April 7, and at 3 p.m.

Sundays, April 2 and 9, at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. The show will be performed in its original Italian with English supertitles projected over the stage.

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

“37 POSTCARDS”: The comedic farce “37 Postcards” will be performed at 7:30 p.m.

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m.

Sundays, April 14-30, at Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd.

The story follows Avery Sutton, who returns home after traveling abroad to find nothing as he remembers it. $18. whidbeyplayhouse.com or 360-679-2237.

MORE FUN HOME AND GARDEN SHOW: The 37th annual SICBA Home

& Garden Show will be held March 24-26 at the Skagit County Fairgrounds. 1410 Virginia St., Mount Vernon. In addition to exhibitor buildings, there will be live music, food vendors, companies represented and Master Gardeners, as well as plants and flowers for sale. Several speakers will present, including retired Navy Captain and NASA astronaut Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper. The show is open noon to 7 p.m. Friday, March 24; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, March 25; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 26. www.

SICBAHomeShow.com.

TOUR CAMANO HISTORIC SITES: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 24; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, March 25; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, March 26. A self-guided tour of more than a dozen historic sites, including 100-year-old schoolhouses, barns, churches and parks. There are activities, contests and prizes for the whole family. Free admission.

For a map and schedule of events, visit camanohistoricsites.com.

MARCH FOR MEALS BOWLING BASH: March 25, San Juan Lanes, Anacortes.

Games will start at 1, 3:30 and 6 p.m. Entry fee is $250 for a team of four. 360- 293-7473 or bowlingbash.org.

“TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME”: 6 p.m. Monday, March.

27, Marysville Opera House, 1225 Third St., Marysville. Part of Movie Mondays. $3.

marysvillewa.gov or 360-363-8400.

EAT YOUR SCIENCE: Alton Brown Live: Eat Your Science will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, at Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. Brown will feature songs, multimedia presentations, talk-show antics and food demonstrations.

He is an award-winning cookbook author and has hosted numerous food-based television series. $40.50 to $89.50.

360-734-6080 or tickets@mountbakertheatre.com.

SOCIAL MEDIA FOR BUSINESS: A workshop on “How to Promote Your Business on Social Media” will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 29, at the Sedro-Woolley Chamber, 810 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. $20. 360855-1841 or director@ sedro-woolley.com.

WASHINGTON REMEMBERS WORLD WAR II: The featured exhibit “Washington Remembers World War II” is on display at the Skagit County Historical Museum through June 25. The exhibit, on loan from Washington state’s Secretary of State’s office, is joined by “The Skagit Home Front,” which presents stories of Skagitonians who served. The museum is located at 501 S. 4th Street, La Conner.

Admission: adults $5, seniors $4 and families $10. 360-466-3365 or skagitcounty.net/museum.

HOUSTON BALLET II: Houston Ballet II,

a touring division of the Houston Ballet, will perform a range of dance numbers, including excerpts from “The Sleeping Beauty” and “Swan Lake” and more contemporary numbers, at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 1, at Mount Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial St., Bellingham. $20.50 to $49.50. 360-734-6080 or tickets@mountbakertheatre.com.

SKAGIT CHILI & CHOWDER COOKOFF: The first Skagit Chili & Chowder Cookoff will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at Farmstrong Brewing Co., 110 Stewart Road, Mount Vernon. entry fee $25, professionals and amateurs are welcome. Send your team name and check to P.O. Box 1007, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, or drop by the chamber office at 301 W. Kincaid St., Mount Vernon. For nonparticipants: $15 for six samples and a vote. Tickets: eventbrite. com or pay at the door. Contact Jeremy Kindlund at jeremy@ mountvernonchamber or 360-428-8547 for more information.

DAFFODIL FESTIVAL: The Freeborn Reserve’s annual Daffodil Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturdays, April 1 and 8, at Freeborn Church & Bonhoeffer Botanical Gardens, 2300 300th St NW, Stanwood. The festival will feature more than 400,000 blooming daffodils, local art vendors, live music, native plants, art glass gallery, bake sale, unique raffle items, quilt sale and refreshments.

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GET INVOLVED ART CALL FOR VENDORS: The Scrapbooking & More Swap Meet will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 29, at the Burlington Parks and Rec Center, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave. Registrations is being accepted for vendors, hobbyists, scrap bookers, crafters and artists looking to sell their extra inventory of scrapbooking paper, pens, stamps, equipment, stickers, and other various supplies through March 31 or until space is filled.

Booth space is $25 and includes a table. recreation@burlingtonwa. gov and 360-755-9649.

CALL FOR VENDORS: The Burlington Parks and Recreation’s Kids Giant Garage Sale will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 15, at the center, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave.. Registration is being accepted from kids under age 18 until March 31 or until space is filled. recreation@burlingtonwa. gov and 360-755-9649.

CALL FOR SCULPTURES: San Juan Islands Sculpture Park invites sculptors to submit entries for its ongoing juried sculpture review. All sculptures must be deemed “safe” and should be suitable for exhibition in an outdoor setting and capable of withstanding occasional high winds, rain and possible snow.

Accepted sculptures will be installed for a two-year period (if not sold sooner) in the 20-acre park located near Roche Harbor on San Juan Island. For complete submission

guidelines, visit sjisculpturepark.com.

CALL FOR INSTRUCTORS: Burlington Parks and Recreation seeks qualified instructors to expand its enrichment classes for youths and adults. To download an instructor’s packet, visit burlingtonwa. gov and click on the “Instructors Needed” tab. 360-755-9649 or recreation@burlingtonwa.gov.

AUDITIONS THEATRE ARTS GUILD 25TH ANNIVERSARY: Singers are sought for the Theatre Arts Guild’s 25th Anniversary Celebration and World’s Largest Cast Party, set for Aug. 26 at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon. Ages 7 to adult.

Contact aandbskinner@comcast.net for audition appointment.

More information at theatreartsguild.org.

BOOKS WRITERS WORKSHOP: The Skagit Valley Writers League will present “Book Marketing Results, Build a Platform & System to Increase Your Audience & Influence” by Kate Williams from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. today, March 23, at the Burlington Public Library, 820 E. Washington Ave. Information and to register: skagitwriters.org.

EDIBLE BOOK CONTEST: Burlington Public Library will host an Edible Book Contest on Saturday, April 15, at the library, 820 E. Washington Ave. Each edible book must be 95 percent edible and

depict a literary work or character. Entries will be judged on most appetizing, best literary representation and best visual presentation, as well as a people’s choice category for the public vote. Submissions are due by 5 p.m.

Friday, April 14. Public voting will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Saturday, and judging will take place at 1 p.m. burlingtonwa.gov/library or 360-755-0760.

BOOK GROUP: The Center for Spiritual Living book group meets at 6 p.m. 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 Great Books Reading Group examines passages from important writings in history. Members are currently reading passages from “Great Conversations, vol. 2,” published by the Great Books Foundation.

The group meets from 6 to 8 p.m. the fourth Monday at the Burlington Public Library, 820 E. Washington Ave. All welcome. 360-941-1437 and shunji.asari@gmail. com.

CALL TO ARTISTS: Northwest Garden Bling in Concrete is hosting the second annual Mosaic Chal-

lenge, culminating with a juried presentation of entered artwork May 5-14. Upon entry participants receive glass inclusions to incorporate into their mosaic.

Artwork will be judged by an independent jury with first, second, third and people’s choice being awarded. Entry fee required. 360-708-3279 or nwgardenbling@ frontier.com.

DANCE COMMUNITY DANCE: Camano Junction will play from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at the Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Road, Stanwood. $10 adults, $8 students at the door. 360-387-0222. art.

BEGINNING LINE DANCING: 7 to 8 p.m.

Tuesdays, starting May 2, Burlington Community Center, 1011 Greenleaf Ave. Cost is $5 for drop-ins or $20 for a six-lesson punch card. recreation@ burlingtonwa.gov and 360-755-9649.

BEGINNING CUBAN SALSA AND RUEDA CLASSES: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, through March 28, The Studio@Riverside, 2226 Market St., Mount Vernon. Classes taught by Havana-born instructor Yasmare Gonzalez. $12 drop-in rate, or $40 for four classes. 360-2237151 and cubasere.com.

FOLK DANCING: Skagit-Anacortes Folk Dancers meet Tuesdays at the 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. No partners needed. For information, contact Gary or Ginny at 360-766-6866.

A Skagit-Anacortes Folk Dancers dance party with the group KEF from Eugene, Oregon, will be held on Saturday, March 25, at the Bay View Community Center on C Street.

A potluck begins at 6 p.m. and dancing at 7:15 p.m. $10 donation.

360-202-3388.

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.

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

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

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 360-424-4608.

SWING DANCE CLASSES: 7 to 8 p.m.

every Monday in March at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave. No experience or partner needed. $40 per person for the series or $12 per person at the door. anacortescenterforhappiness.org and 360-464-2229.

MUSIC SCOTTISH MUSIC SESSION: Join the Celtic Arts Foundation for its monthly Scottish music session from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 2, at Littlefield Celtic Center, 1124 Cleveland Ave., Mount Vernon. Free, open to the public.

Musicians welcome. celticarts.org.

IRISH MUSIC SESSION: Join the Celtic Arts Foundation for its monthly Irish music session from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 16, at Littlefield Celtic Center, 1124 Cleveland Ave., Mount Vernon. Free, open to the public. Musicians welcome. celticarts.org.

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.

360-630-1156.

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. 360-2233230.

Thursday, March 23, 2017 - E7

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

GET INVOLVED 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.

360-293-2544.

OPEN MIC: Jam night, 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursdays, Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

CALLING ‘80S COVER BANDS: The Mount Vernon Downtown Association invites cover bands with an ‘80s set list

to play at the third annual Harvest Moon Festival: Retro on the River on Aug. 26. The festival is a celebration of the bounty found in Skagit Valley and the local region.

The event features live music, brews, ciders and local food. Send a link or recording to info@ mountvernondowntown. org or call 360-336-3801.

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 to 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays at North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Boulevard, Burlington. 360-7072683 or jauman@northcovecoffee.com.

RECREATION TINYTYKES SOCCER: A 10-week TinyTykes Soccer session will be held from April 11 through June 13 at Skagit River Park, 1100 S. Skagit St., Burlington. Ages 2-3 are 9 to 9:45 a.m., and ages 4-5 are 10 to 10:45 a.m. or 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. $115. Player package includes uniform, size 3 ball, kicker stickers and graduation certificate after level completion. challengersports.com/ tinytykes.

Saturday April 8th 30 Wineries food pairings on-site wine shop General Admission Tickets available anacortes.org/spring-wine-festival

VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation is offering a fifthand sixth-grade Skagit Spikers Volleyball League. For beginners to experienced players. $78. Preregistration: March 27. 360-3366215 and www.mountvernonwa.gov.

WATER SAFETY INSTRUCTOR: American Red Cross is offering a six-part Water Safety Instructor Course starting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, at Fidalgo Pool and Fitness Center, 1603 22nd St., Anacortes.

For children, teens and adults. For class times and dates, participation requirements and more: 360-293-0673 or jdees@fidalgopool. com. $235.

FRIENDS OF THE FOREST HIKES: Join the Friends of the Forest for scenic hikes in the forest lands around Anacortes. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. No pets.

Free. 360-293-3725 or friendsoftheacfl.org.

KIDS CLUB: Nat Geo Kids teams with Cascade Mall Kids Club for fun, educational games and activities for kids from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. the third Thursday at the Cascade Mall center court, 201 Cascade Mall Drive, Burlington. Free.

360-558-3270 or shopcascademall.com.

FLYSWATTER VOLLEYBALL: 9 a.m. Thursdays, Sedro-Woolley Senior Center, 715 Pacific St., Sedro-Woolley.

All ages and all levels of

ability welcome. Free.

360-855-1531.

TRAIL GUIDES, BIKE MAPS & MORE: Learn about opportunities to be physically active in Skagit County, including trail guides, an activity tracker and local resources at beactiveskagit.org.

TRAIL BUILDERS: Mount Vernon Trail Builders seeks volunteers to help with trail building and maintenance at Little Mountain Park in Mount Vernon.

Work sessions are held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturdays, rain or shine.

Lunch, snacks, tools and training are provided.

For information, call Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation at 360336-6215 or visit mountvernontrailbuilders.com.

E8 - Thursday, March 23, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area March 23-30 Thursday.23

IMPROV Against All Odds: 8 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 1208 Bay St., Bellingham. $10-$12. theupfront.com/shows/ against-all-odds.

THEATER Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $12-$25. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Face Off: 10 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 1208 Bay St., Bellingham. $10$12. theupfront.com/shows/face-off.

The Toad Prince: 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $8-$9.50.

360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

Sunday.26 MUSIC Whatcom Symphony Orchestra: All-American Celebration, 3 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $27-$39, take a teen for free.

360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

IMPROV The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly: 8 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 1208 Bay St., Bellingham. $8. theupfront.com/ shows/gbu.

Slack key guitar master Keola Beamer, with hula dancer Moana Beamer and special guest Jeff Peterson: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Friday.24 THEATER Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $12-$25. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org. ”Always... Patsy Cline”: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce St., Conway. $28. 360-445-3000 or conwaymuse.com. ”Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus”: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $50-$60. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org. ”The Toad Prince”: 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $8-$9.50.

360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com. ”Into the Woods”: 7 p.m., Everett PUD Auditorium, 2320 California St., Everett. $12-$15. ludusperformingarts.org.

Cinderella En Espana (Cinderella in Spain): 2 p.m., Marysville Opera House, 1225 Third St., Marysville. Free, preregistration required. 360-363-8400 or lwoodmansee@marysvillewa.gov. ”The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”: 7:30 p.m., ACT Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20.

360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

IMPROV Against All Odds: 8 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 1208 Bay St., Bellingham. $10-$12. theupfront.com/shows/ against-all-odds.

GARY BROWN PHOTO

FRIDAY-SATURDAY.24-25 ”ALWAYS ... PATSY CLINE” 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce St., Conway. $28. 360-445-3000 or conwaymuse.com.

Pictured: Kelly Visten (left) plays Louise Seger and Ria Peth Vanderpool plays Patsy Cline.

Face Off: 10 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 1208 Bay St., Bellingham. $10$12. theupfront.com/shows/face-off.

Saturday.25

”The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”: 7:30 p.m., ACT Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20.

360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

THEATER Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $12-$25. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

OPERA The MET: “Idomeneo” (Mozart): 9:55 a.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17-23. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

”Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus”: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $50-$60. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

Cinderella in Spain: 2 p.m., Marysville Opera House, 1225 Third St., Marysville. Free, registration required.

360-363-8400 or marysvillewa.gov.

”Always... Patsy Cline”: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce St., Conway. $28. 360-445-3000 or conwaymuse.com. ”Into the Woods”: 2 and 7 p.m., Everett PUD Auditorium, 2320 California St., Everett. $12-$15. ludusperformingarts.org.

MUSIC Geoffrey Castle Celtic Concert: 7:30 p.m., The Music Hall at Kennelly Keys, 1904 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. $25. brownpapertickets.com/ event/2834685.

THEATER ”The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”: 2 p.m., ACT Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20.

360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Monday.27 THEATER Wings of Courage: 10 a.m and 12:15 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $6-$7.50.

360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

Tuesday.28 FOOD Alton Brown Live: Eat Your Science: 7 p.m. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $40.50-$89.50. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

Thursday.30 THEATER ”The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”: 7:30 p.m., ACT Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20.

360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

IMPROV The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly: 8 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 1208 Bay St., Bellingham. $8. theupfront.com/ shows/gbu.

Thursday, March 23, 2017 - E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TUNING UP Playing at area venues March 23-30

SATURDAY.25 RAFAEL TRANQUILINO 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956 or anacortesH2O.com.

Thursday.23

Country Jim: 6 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

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

Friday.24

Robert Sarazin Blake: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10 show, $20 show and CD. 360-445-3000 or conwaymuse.com.

Kevin Kieneker: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. 360445-3000 or conwaymuse.com.

The Goodsons: 8:30 p.m to midnight, Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Shivering Denizens: 9 p.m., Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

Nick Anthony and Friends: 8 to 11 p.m., Evelyn’s Tavern, 12667 Highway 9, Clear Lake.

360-399-1321.

Lizzie Weber: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-5881720 or rockfishgrill. com.

SouthWind featuring Steve Ketchum: 7:30 p.m., Sedro-Woolley American Legion, 701 Murdock St., Sedro-Woolley. 360855-0520.

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

360-766-6330.

SATURDAY.25 DECEPTION PAST 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $8. 425-737-5144 or locobillys.com.

Saturday.25

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

Shivering Denizens: 9 p.m., Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

Rafael Tranquilino: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956 or anacortesH2O. com.

Adrian Xavier Trio: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10.

360-445-3000 or conwaymuse.com.

SouthWind featuring Steve Ketchum: 7:30 p.m., Sedro-Woolley American Legion, 701 Murdock St., Sedro-Woolley. 360-855-0520.

Wednesday.29

The Jody Taylor Band: 7:30 p.m., Bastion Brewing Company, 12529 Christianson Road, Anacortes. Free, all ages. bastionbrewingcompany.com.

Sunday.26

Thursday.30

Deception Past: 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $8. 425737-5144 or locobillys. com.

Monday.27

Orville Johnson: 5:30 p.m., The Old Edison, 5829 Cains Court, Bow. 360-766-6266 or theoldedison.com.

Swingnuts: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Angel of the Winds, 3438 Stoluckquamish Lane, Arlington. 360-474-7321 or swingnutsjazz.com.

Swingnuts: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720 or rockfishgrill.com.

The Yankee Drivers: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $7. 360445-3000 or conwaymuse.com.

E10 - Thursday, March 23, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TRAVEL

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

5 trips for people who are wild about horses

By LYNN O’ROURKE HAYES The Dallas Morning News

Is someone in your family passionate about ponies? If so, you’ll want to consider one of these five getaways.

1. Pryor Mountain Wild Mustang Center, Lovell, Wyo.: Learn about the evolution, habitat, social interaction and historical significance of this mustang herd during a tour of the extraordinary landscape that is their home. Many believe the magnificent creatures are descendants of Spanish horses brought to the area by Native American tribes, including the Crow. The daylong tour, available May through October, might include bear, Big Horn sheep and other wildlife sightings as you traverse land that straddles the Montana and Wyoming border. pryormustangs.org/ tours.shtml; visitmt.com; travelwyoming.com 2. Warm Springs Ranch, Booneville, Mo.: Have you been curious about Clydesdales? You and your clan will learn what it takes to join the famous Budweiser hitch during a visit to the 300acre facility where more than 70 Clydesdales, from foals to stallions, are at home. It all began in the early 19th century, when farmers living along the banks of Scotland’s River Clyde

imported Flemish horses and bred them with local mares. Today, the celebrity creatures stand 6 feet tall and weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds.

During your tour, you’ll interact with handlers, get a glimpse of how the horses and their gear travel and snap photos of the legendary beauties.

Reservations required. warmspringsranch.com 3. Ranch getaways: Choose a ranch vacation and you’ll have the opportunity to learn horsemanship in an authentic and scenic setting. Opt to ride in open meadows, mountain trails or in the desert southwest. Will your family members choose to participate in a real cattle drive? Are you up for a horse pack trip into the backcountry?

Will your youngsters be eager to learn the skills required for team penning and other arena games?

Or will you be happy to relax during daily trail rides. The options are yours at working dude ranches and guest ranches across the country. duderanches.com; top50ranches.com 4. Horse country, Kentucky: It’s considered by some to be the horse capital of the world.

Millionaires, moguls, sheiks and queens have been known to make their way to Churchill Downs and Keeneland to witness equine magic.

Access a new program

WEB BUZZ

Name: DorisandDicky.com What it does: It offers a collection of 500-plus independent hotels packed with charm in cities across Europe and around the globe. Most properties have 20 rooms or fewer and a price tag of about $125 a night.

Many properties cost less; a few are more, but in those cases it’s aiming for value.

What’s hot: It had me at “best affordable boutique hotel spa breaks in Europe,” with rooms from $52 to $115 a night. There are valuable travel tips hidden within articles in the Blog/News section. “Top 5 cheap weekend boutique city breaks in Europe” led me to more generous on-the-ground travel information than a destination summary usually delivers. Its tips enticed me with an arts and crafts market in Seville, Spain, and a supper club in Lisbon, Portugal. Doris & Dicky claims to be on the lookout for new hotels, so keep your finger near the refresh button on “New hotels and recently reviewed properties,” found on the home page. It aims to find something a little extra special in accommodations, be it spectacular views, a beachfront location, colorful character or cultural highlights.

What’s not: I might be dreaming, but with all the design elements these boutique hotel rooms have, I’d like an accompanying shopping feature on this site where I could purchase pillows, art and more.

— Jen Leo, Los Angeles Times

that provides VIP access to more than a dozen championship thoroughbred farms where behind the scenes experiences are sure to please longtime fans and young enthusiasts. You’ll have the opportunity to meet previous Derby winners, favorite champions and future contenders. visithorsecountry.com.

5. Assateague Island National Seashore, Berlin, Md.: This magnificent stretch of beach is perhaps most well known for the wild Chincoteague ponies that make their

annual swim across the Assateague Channel.

Locals often suppose the horses are survivors of a shipwreck off the Virginia coast, though it’s not been confirmed. The Seashore, a part of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, is also home to more than 300 species of birds as well as miles of trails for biking and hiking. Make time for beachcombing, kayaking, swimming and keeping eyes out for eagles overhead and dolphins in the water. nps.gov/asis/index.htm

Local travel briefs TRAVEL TALKS: The Anacortes Sister Cities Association will present the following talks at the Anacortes Public LIbrary, 1220 10th St.: n Island Nation of Palau: 7 p.m., Thursday, April 6: Barbara Smart, retired U.S. government geospatial analyst (cartographer), spent five years traveling throughout southeast Asia on the USS Blue Ridge with the Navy. She will talk about her travels to Palau. n Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program, 6 p.m. Monday, April 17: JET is an employment opportunity that allows young professionals to live and work in cities, towns and villages throughout Japan.

Open to the public. jetprgramusa.org.

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. n Spring Has Sprung Consignment and Thrift Store Tour: Saturday, April 1. $55. Register by Monday, March 27. n Annual Arboretum and Nurseries Tour: Friday, April 14. Visit the Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens then head to a variety of nurseries and garden stores. $55. Register by Friday, April 7.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Recreation Without Borders offers recreational trips, tours and adventures throughout the Northwest and British Columbia. For information or to register: 360-766-7109 or recreationwithoutborders.com. n Thursdays in the Parks: 9 a.m. to noon. Adults can visit various parks, departing from the Burlington Senior Center. $65. Register by Wednesday prior to each series. n “Real Adventures in the North Cascades”: 4 to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 28. 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision). $20. Register by Friday, March 24. n Seattle Mariners 2017 home opener: 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday, April 10. 8 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision). $85. n Astoria Heritage and Nature Tour: A bird-watching and nature tour down the coast of Washington and into Oregon. Friday-Sunday, April 28-30. 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision). $475 per person, double occupancy. Register by Friday, April 14.

SENIOR CENTERS: The following trips are offered through Skagit County senior centers. Participants may choose to depart from either the Anacortes Senior Center or the Burlington Senior Center. Registration forms and flyers are available at all centers. For more information, call the Anacortes Senior Center at 360-293-7473: n “Murder for Two” at the ACT in Seattle: Tuesday, April 18. $89. Register by Tuesday, April 4.

TRAVEL PRESENTATION: Mike Woodmansee, “Real Adventures in the North Cascades”: 6 p.m., Tuesday, March 28, Marysville Opera House, 1225 Third St. $3. 360-363-8400 or marysvillewa.gov.

Thursday, March 23, 2017 - E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

HOT TICKETS ELVIN BISHOP BAND: March 23-26, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

CHRIS STAPLETON: March 28, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

DAVINA AND THE VAGABONDS: March 2829, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

LOCASH: March 29, Neptune Theatre, Seattle.

206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: LUZIA: March 30-April 30, Marymoor Park, Redmond. cirquedusoleil. com/luzia.

RUBEN STUDDARD: March 30-April 2, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle.

206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

GAME OF THRONES LIVE: March 31, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

REGINA SPEKTOR: April 3, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

KENNY LATTIMORE: April 4-5, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com.

SLEAFORD MODS: April 5, Neumos, Seattle.

206-709-9442 or neumos. com.

GROUPLOVE: April 6, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or axs.com.

JOEY ALEXANDER TRIO: April 6-9, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle.

206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

HOWIE MANDEL: April 7-8, Tulalip Casino, Tulalip.

800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. ”KISS ME KATE”: April 7-30, Seattle Musical Theater, Seattle. seattlemusical.org.

THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS: April 8,

Neumos, Seattle. 206-7099442 or neumos.com.

‘AMPLIFY!: RAISING WOMEN’S VOICES’: April 13-Aug. 27, Sound Theatre Company, Seattle. soundtheatrecompany.org.

VANESSA WILLIAMS: April 21-22, Skagit Valley Casino, Pacific Showroom, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

THE WEEKND: April 26, KeyArena, Seattle. 800745-3000 or livenation. com.

WAR: April 28, Tulalip Casino, Tulalip. 800-7453000 or ticketmaster.com.

LIONEL RICHIE, MARIAH CAREY: April 28, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

THE 1975: April 30, WaMu Theater, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

BILL CHARLAP TRIO: May 2-3, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com.

ELAINE ELIAS: MAY 4-7, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

JOHN MICHAEL MONTGOMERY: May 5-6, Skagit Valley Casino, Pacific Showroom, Bow. 877275-2448 or theskagit. com.

PJ HARVEY: May 5, WaMu Theater, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

CHRIS BROWN: May 11, KeyArena, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

U2: May 14, CenturyLink Field, Seattle. 800745-3000 or livenation. com.

SHEMEKIA COPELAND: May 18-21, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle.

206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

GEORGE LOPEZ: May 19, Tulalip Casino, Tulalip.

800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

SESAME STREET LIVE: “Elmo Makes Music,” May 19-20, Xfinity Arena, Everett. 866-332-8499 or www. xfinityarenaeverett.com.

EUGE GROOVE: May 25-28, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

SASQUATCH! MUSIC FESTIVAL: With Chance the Rapper, Twenty One Pilots, Frank Ocean and more, May 26-28, The Gorge, George. sasquatchfestival.com.

MARTIN SHORT: May 26-27, Tulalip Casino, Tulalip. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

ELVIS COSTELLO: June 1, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

TOWER OF POWER: June 2-3, Skagit Valley Casino, Pacific Showroom, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

JOHN LEGEND: June 3-4, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

KASCADE: June 6, Paramount Theatre, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

JOE LOVANO CLASSIC QUARTET: June 6-7, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle.

206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK: with Boyz II Men and Paula Abdul: June 7, KeyArena, Seattle. 800745-3000 or livenation. com.

DEF LEPPARD: with Poison and Tesla, June 9, White River Ampitheatre, Auburn. 360-825-6200 or livenation.com.

FUTURE: June 10, White River Ampitheatre, Auburn. 360-825-6200 or livenation.com.

THE MOODY BLUES:

TODAY

HOWIE MANDEL April 7-8, Tulalip Casino, Tulalip. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

June 10-11, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

KIDZ BOP KIDS: June 17, White River Ampitheatre, Auburn. 360-8256200 or livenation.com.

TOOL: June 17, Gorge Ampitheatre, George.

360-825-6200 or livenation.com.

STYX, REO SPEEDWAGON: June 21, White River Ampitheatre, Auburn. 360-825-6200 or livenation.com.

SANTANA: June 23-24, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

— For complete listings, visit goskagit.com and click on “Entertainment.”

37th Annual

use code

FOODTRUCKS to save $2 purchase tickets online or at the gate.

Men Are From Mars ~ Women Are From Venus McIntyre Hall Presents March 24 & 25

1410

Don Giovanni

Pacific Northwest Opera March 31 April 2, 7, 9

5th Annual Drag Night!

Skagit Valley College April 22

Celebrating In Song Skagit Valley Chorale April 29

360.416.7727

mcintyrehall.org

March 24th, 25th 26th 2017 major sponsor:

Skagit County Fairgrounds

www.SICBAHomeShow.com

E12 - Thursday, March 23, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MUSIC

Personal brushes with Chuck Berry as a fan, musician and writer

By RANDY LEWIS Los Angeles Times

“Chuck Berry doesn’t give interviews.”

My first encounter with Berry didn’t go so well. In four decades as a music journalist, I’ve seen Berry many times — concerts that ran the gamut from pedestrian to thrilling.

Along the way, I also had three direct encounters with one of the original architects of rock ‘n’ roll — as a fan, as a fellow musician and as a pop music writer.

Taken in combination, these encounters ultimately inspired sympathy for the slings and arrows he’d suffered through his life, helping offset the initial disappointment I felt as a fan at his frostiness.

Yet later, these few brushes with fame made it that much more rewarding to score a few minutes of what felt like honest dialogue with a man who was equally innovative as a guitarist and as a songwriter, and whose combination of cockiness and self-deprecating humor helped define the rock ‘n’ roll attitude.

The first meeting with him came in 1977 in the most mundane of surroundings. I was having lunch with a co-worker at a restaurant on the ground floor of an office building in Hollywood when we glanced over at the lunch counter and spotted Berry sitting alone, hunched over a sandwich.

We were young scribes covering music business news for a low-budget record industry trade publication, Cash Box magazine, but we approached as fans.

AP FILE

Chuck Berry performs at The Domino Effect in 2009, a tribute concert to New Orleans rock and roll musician Fats Domino, at the New Orleans Arena in New Orleans. Berry died on Saturday at the age of 90.

“Mr. Berry?” I asked hesitantly. “We’re both great admirers of your work and just wanted to say hello.”

He smiled, guardedly.

One of us mentioned that we worked in the building across the street, for Cash Box, and asked if he was working on any new music. He immediately stiffened. “Oh, you’re trying to get an interview, aren’t you?” It wasn’t what either of us had in mind, but the damage was done.

“Chuck Berry doesn’t give interviews,” he said, and turned back to his sandwich.

It was a visceral lesson in his legendary combative relationship with the press, as he had felt that he’d been burned over the years by news coverage of his run-ins with the law.

More than a dozen years later, I had another close-upand-personal brush with the author of “Johnny B. Goode,” “Roll Over Beethoven,” “Rock and Roll Music,” “Sweet Little

Sixteen” and so many other songs that constitute the foundations of rock ‘n’ roll.

Through a series of events lost to me in the mists of time, a group in which I played sax at the time, the Beat Pests, was invited to open for Berry. He was booked for two shows on the same night at a club on the fringes of the L.A. music scene, the Strand in Redondo Beach.

We’d worked up opening sets of about 40 minutes for the early and late shows, but were instructed to hold off taking the stage until the rented equipment, a pair of Fender Showman amps, as stipulated in Berry’s contract, arrived. They showed up late.

Consequently we started late.

About 15 minutes in, we were informed, “Chuck is here and ready to go. You’re done!”

Between sets, one of the members of Chuck’s locally arranged backing band — bassist Steve Soest, who also runs a guitar repair business — secretly grabbed Berry’s wildly out-of-tune guitar and tuned it without his knowledge, prompting a look of perplexed pleasure from Berry when he started playing again.

When the Beat Pests’ drummer started to take his seat behind the drum kit for our second set, he was informed there would be no second set since Chuck’s first ran long.

Our 15 minutes of fame?

Over.

In 2002, I was invited to meet with Berry before an appearance he was making the same night on “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno.”

His publicist warned me to keep it short, as Berry didn’t often talk to the press.

I was ushered into his dressing room in the bowels

of the “Tonight Show” offices in Burbank, and I brought up a concert he’d recently given at the Universal Amphitheatre.

It had been one of his good nights, and he’d soared on a double bill with Little Richard.

We hit it off, and he seemed to relax when I asked where he still got the energy he had displayed on stage just shy of turning 75.

“It must still be fun,” he answered, “because I don’t have to hit a lick anymore,” acknowledging that fans would applaud him just for showing up on stage.

“What keeps me going is that I appreciate that response,” he said. “Plus, I’m still learning, and that’s a big part of my life, to learn.

These guitar strokes I’m learning, still learning — yes, it’s fun. Anybody would understand it’s fun.”

I received another glimpse into his fabled testiness when I asked whether it was “harder” to continue performing as the years went by.

“Break down ‘harder’ for me,” he said playfully, but also almost as though he were an opposing attorney. “Yes, it’s more tiring, but since I don’t do it as much as I used to, it’s not really that much more taxing. See why I couldn’t answer the question before?

Ahh,” he added, “I should have been a son of Einstein.”

For a man who also always strived for the right word rather than the almost-right word — whether it was “motorvatin’ over the hill” in “Maybellene” or a “Coolerator (that) was crammed with TV dinners and ginger ale” in “You Never Can Tell” — the difference between “harder,” “more tiring” and “more taxing” was no small matter.

REVIEW

Warbringer brings the brutal

By CRAIG PARRISH Entertainment/Lifestyles Editor

It’s been nearly three and a half years since Warbringer released a new record, and the scorching juggernaut that is “Woe to the Vanquished” is well worth the wait.

The southern California thrash-metal quintet has endured a series of obstacles between records: shifting personnel, a move to a new record company, the ongoing financial uncertainty of a road-dog touring band.

But if “Woe to the Vanquished” is any indication, Warbringer have channeled their ferocity in the right places. It’s brilliant, slamming and suitably menacing, as all metal should be.

“Silhouettes” is a high-velocity opener, not unlike “Living Weapon” from 2011’s “Worlds Torn Asunder.”

The band’s formidable chops are in ripping good form; guitarist Adam Carroll has taken on more leads and thereby stands toe to toe with Chase Becker, who brings a more shredding approach in terms of fluidity and tone. Warbringer’s guitar duo now stands at the top of the current wave of thrash bands.

The frenetic pace continues with the title track, “Descending Blade” and “Shellfire,” a blinding workout punctuated by vocalist John Kevill’s otherworldly shrieking. Kevill is in top form here, and drummer Carlos Cruz is a force of nature with both his hands and feet.

The tempo shifts down a bit with “Remain Violent,” a midpaced slammer, and the band stretches its creative palette with the 11-minute “When the Guns Fell Silent.” That epic cut opens with an acoustic guitar part that quickly leads into a pounding dirge that touches lyrically, as much of the album does, on the senselessness of unchecked aggression and violence. (The midsong break by bassist Jessie Sanchez is both melodic and disturbing.)

“Woe to the Vanquished” is set to be released March 31; based on the evidence herein, it’s easily a must-have candidate for record of the year, regardless of genre.

Thursday, March 23, 2017 - E13

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

AT THE LINCOLN

DINING GUIDE THURSDAY NIGHT - ALLYOU CAN EAT PRAWNS! Friday, March 24th & Saturday, March 25th

Music by THE GOODSONS

FRiDAY PRimE Rib

SATURDAY SEAFOOD

18247 State Route 9 Mount Vernon

DALE ROBINETTE/LIONSGATE VIA AP

‘Idomeneo’ (Mozart) 9:55 a.m. Saturday, March 25 Mozart’s first operatic masterpiece returns to the Met in the classic Jean-Pierre Ponnelle production, conducted

Keola Beamer & Jeff Peterson 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 26 Two virtuosos of slack key guitar; one is a Hawaiian legend who has stretched the boundaries of slack key guitar music while remaining true to the soul of its deeply Hawaiian roots. The other is a rising star of the next generation of slack key players, who

‘La La Land’ 7:30 p.m. MondayWednesday, March 27-29 The story of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a dedicated jazz musician, struggling to make ends meet while pursuing their dreams in a city known for destroying hopes and breaking hearts. Winner of six Academy Awards.

Rated PG-13. $10 general; $9 seniors, students and active military; $8 members; $7 ages 12 and under.

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

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

This Week at The Rockfish Grill and H2O:

$7.99 BURGER SPECIAL Mon-Fri, 11:30am-4pm

FRIDAY ~ PRIME RIB SATURDAY ~ SEAFOOD

FRI. 3/24 8PM LIZZIE WEBER WEDS. 3/29 6PM SWINGNUTS

THURSDAY NIGHTS:

FRI. 3/31 8PM KURT LINDSAY

SAT. 3/25 7:30PM RAFAEL TRANQUILINO BAND SUN. 3/26 8PM KARAOKE SAT. 4/1 7:30PM THE FABULOUS ROOF SHAKERS

anacortesrockfish.com / anacortesH2O.com

BREAKFAST LUNCH OR DINNER BEFORE OR AFTER SEEING THE DAFFODILS

360.466.4411

La Conner Whitney Rd. & Hwy. 20

A menu of Polish family recipes and eclectic fare made in-house from fresh, local ingredients

Craft Beer • PNW Wines House-Infused Vodkas Weekend Brunch & Bloody Mary Bar Sat-Sun 11am to 2pm

LOCAL LIVE MUSIC CHECK LISTINGS

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

1478646

ALL YOU CAN EAT PRAWNS RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Fri. 3/24 & Sat. 3/25

THE GOODSONS

422-6411 18247 State Route 9 Mount Vernon

1585054

uses the style’s open tunings to explore multiple genres with ease and flair. $20-$35. Lincoln Theatre members receive a $2 discount.

1585072

7:30 p.m. ThursdaySaturday, March 23-25 Ariel, a rebellious 16-year-old mermaid, is fascinated with life on land. On one of her visits to the surface, which are forbidden by her controlling father, King Triton, she falls for a human prince. Determined to be with her new love, Ariel makes a dangerous deal with the Sea Witch Ursula to become human for three days. But when plans go awry for the star-crossed lovers, the king must make the ultimate sacrifice for his daughter.

Reserved tickets: $25, $20 and $12.

by James Levine. The ensemble includes Matthew Polenzani as the king torn by a rash vow; mezzo-soprano Alice Coote in the trouser role of his noble son Idamante; soprano Nadine Sierra as Ilia; and soprano Elza van den Heever as the volatile Elettra, who loves Idamante to the bounds of madness.

Adults $23, seniors $21, students (with I.D.) $19, children (12 and under) $19. Lincoln members receive $2 off all price levels.

1584641

Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’

1585049

Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone star in “La La Land,” playing at 7:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday at the Lincoln Theatre.

1585056

360-422-6411

E14 - Thursday, March 23, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES

NEW THIS WEEK

MINI-REVIEWS

Stewart embodies woman haunted by grief in ‘Personal Shopper’

By MICHAEL PHILLIPS Chicago Tribune

No matter what sort of movie you’re expecting from “Personal Shopper,” you’ll get it. You’ll also contend with three others, and then the movie you first expected will turn inside out.

So all that awaits the receptive viewer, along with a dangling modifier of an ending guaranteed to satisfy virtually no one.

Even so, this is one of the most intriguing pictures of the year, a genre-hopper of unusual gravity. It’s also the latest proof that Kristen Stewart has the goods for a long-haul acting career, with all sorts of directors, playing all sorts of characters.

“Personal Shopper” comes from writer-director Olivier Assayas, based in France, who worked previously with Stewart on “Clouds of Sils Maria” three years ago. There she played a restless American assistant to an internationally famous actress (Juliette Binoche). Their increasingly fraught and emotionally loaded relationship led to a scene in the mountains where the Stewart character took her leave, suddenly and finally, in a cloud of mystery recalling Michelangelo Antonioni’s “L’Avventura” and a hint of a ghost story.

In “Personal Shopper,” hints are not enough.

Stewart plays Maureen, an American making a hollow, silly, swank-adjacent living

IFC FILMS VIA AP

Kristen Stewart stars in “Personal Shopper.”

in Paris as personal shopper to a demanding high-fashion celebrity (Nora von Waldstatten). She’s perpetually sending Maureen off to Chanel or some other boutique for jewels, or shoes, and has a strict policy against Maureen trying any of her outfits on for size, or for wish-fulfillment fantasy purposes.

Maureen’s twin brother, Lewis, died just weeks earlier, the victim of the same “malformation” of the heart marking her condition. A spiritual medium, like her brother, Maureen exists day to day in a state of suspended animation, waiting for a sign from the beyond from her late twin. A more conventional script would lay these details out, and then get to the first scene in the creaky old country home outside Paris where Lewis lived. Here, in a quiet, shadowy overture, Assayas takes us into the shadows straight off, where Maureen awaits a signal, a bump, anything. The plot stuff can wait for a while.

There are surprises, and

while those who require full-on jump scares and methodical explanations may well hate “Personal Shopper,” the most effective stretch is also the most traditionally suspenseful. On a quick trip to London, after she’s made contact with some sort of ectoplasmic being in the old dark house, Maureen receives a text from UNKNOWN stating, simply: “I know you.” And then: “I’m watching you.”

By this time Assayas has established just enough side characters — her late brother’s lover, played by Sigrid Bouaziz; her employer’s spurned boyfriend, a murmuring sort played by Lars Eidinger — for some legitimate guessing games.

But Maureen wonders if it’s Lewis, teasing her from the beyond, making her question her own sanity, or holding her to the bargain the twins made before Lewis’ death.

Movies make frequent functional use in narrative terms of texting conversations, but “Personal Shopper” takes it to another level entirely. The nervous

rhythm of these scenes is beautifully controlled, and cinematographer Yorick Le Saux makes every interior and exterior image a thing of unforced beauty. In many ways this is a tale of a young woman’s agitated grief, pure and simple, and Stewart’s wonderful and wholly persuasive as that woman. At times, “Personal Shopper” is quite plain in what it’s showing us; Lewis’ spirit (or some other spirit) manifests itself by way of floating glassware and doors opening and closing on their own, as if Assayas were adapting a Paris-set revival of “Harvey.” Other elements are glanced upon or elided.

I suspect Assayas could have gotten away with his ending with just a slight adjustment in emphasis; as is, it’s abrupt enough to betray a hint of insecurity.

Still: I was grateful for the gentle, watchful discombobulation. The movie barely hangs together, but there’s a kind of magic in that word “barely” when you’re in that movie’s thrall. At one point Maureen’s doctor advises her to avoid “intense physical efforts and extreme emotions.” Assayas is an artist with a natural aversion to extreme emotions, but the feeling in “Personal Shopper,” fleeting yet distinct, gives Stewart everything she needs as an actress.

— 1:50: Rating: R (for some language, sexuality, nudity and a bloody violent image). HHH 1/2 (out of four stars)

Compiled from news services.

Ratings are 1 to 4 stars.

“T2 Trainspotting” — Now living the straight life, Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor) returns to Edinburgh to find his former best mates still seriously messed up. This sequel to the 1996 hit has one foot firmly planted in nostalgia and the other rooted in the present. Everything old feels new again, and everything new has the look of an original and blazing piece of art. Drama, R, 117 minutes. HHHH “Mean Dreams” — The late Bill Paxton gives a chilling performance as the monstrously abusive father of a teenage girl who goes on the run with her young lover.

The stark and bleak drama is a tribute of sorts to Terrence Malick’s 1973 classic “Badlands,” both in style and story.

Drama, R, 105 minutes. HHH½ “Beauty and the Beast” — The live-action remake of Disney’s 1991 animated classic is almost overwhelmingly lavish, beautifully staged and performed with exquisite timing and grace by the outstanding cast headed by Emma Watson and Dan Stevens. Fantasy musical, PG-13, 126 minutes. HHH½ “Brimstone” — Guy Pearce delivers a strong performance as a pure-evil monster of a man who finds ways to justify his horrific behavior, including rape, murder, incest, torture of humans and slaughter of animals. This needlessly confusing, pretentious Old West gore-fest is so harsh, so convoluted and so in-your-face with the gruesome imagery, it’s almost as if the director is daring you to keep watching. Western, R, 148 minutes. H ½ “The Ottoman Lieutenant” — The most objectionable thing about this drama set in World War I Turkey isn’t the flat acting or the cliche of a wartime romantic triangle or the cheap and schmaltzy score. It’s the revisionist history of the Armenian Genocide. War romance, R, 106 minutes. H “Kong: Skull Island” — John Goodman, Samuel L. Jackson, Brie Larson and the rest of the A-list cast members seem like they’re having a heckuva time fighting lethal creatures in a wildly entertaining monster movie that also has a sense of humor about itself. Monster action, PG-13, 118 minutes. HHH “The Last Word” — An unlikable retiree (Shirley MacLaine) recruits an obituary writer (Amanda Seyfried) to help shape her legacy in a manipulative, contrived and at times borderline offensive comedy/weeper with a number of cringe-inducing, off-putting elements. Comedy, R, 108 minutes. H ½ “Table 19” — In a sometimes clunky, utterly harmless modern-day takeoff on “The Breakfast Club,” Anna Kendrick plays a maid of honor who falls out of favor and is exiled to a remote table of outcasts at the wedding reception. It’s the kind of movie that will help you kill 90 minutes in light-chuckle fashion on a flight. Comedy, PG13, 87 minutes. HH ½ “Logan” — As much a Western as it is a sci-fi thriller, James Mangold’s darkly entertaining “Logan” affords Hugh Jackman the opportunity to reinvent his portrayal of his X-Men character. The result is one of the best performances of Jackman’s career — and one of the most impressive superhero movies of this decade. Superhero action, R, 141 minutes. HHH ½

Thursday, March 23, 2017 - E15

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES “Get Out” — When a young black man (Daniel Kaluuya) meets the parents of his white girlfriend (Allison Williams), it’s the start of a cutting-edge, fresh and sometimes bat-bleepcrazy mash-up of “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” “Rosemary’s Baby” and “The Stepford Wives.” Writer-director Jordan Peele pays homage to some great horror films while carving out his own fantastically creative path. Comedy horror, R, 105 minutes. HHH ½ “Dying Laughing” — In this wonderful documentary, a hall-of-fame roster of comics including Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, Amy Schumer and Kevin Hart speaks with candor, hilarious insight and sometimes deadly serious intimacy about the soul-crushing life of the stand-up comic.

Documentary, not rated, 89 minutes. HHH ½ “The Great Wall” — Cast as the Great White Hope alongside several popular Chinese actors, Matt Damon plays a mercenary enlisted to help fight an invasion of paranormal monsters. A fantasy with some pretty cool visual effects but scads of unintentionally hilarious dialogue, “The Great Wall” is so wonderfully bad, I could see some coming for the action and staying for the camp laughs. It’s a beautiful bomb. Action fantasy, PG-13, 104 minutes. H ½ “A United Kingdom” — Though this story of the black heir to an African throne falling in love with a white Londoner follows the standard playbook of the inspirational, basedon-true-events drama, it’s worth seeing for the genuine movie-star charisma of David Oyelowo and for the breathtakingly beautiful on-location cinematography in Botswana. Historical drama, PG-13, 111 minutes. HHH “Fist Fight” — A violent

At area theaters ANACORTES CINEMAS March 24-30 The Metropolitan Opera: Idomeneo: Saturday: 9:55 a.m.

Power Rangers (PG-13): Friday: (12:55), (3:50), 6:35, 9:30; Saturday: 1:15, 3:50, 6:35, 9:30; Sunday-Thursday: 12:55, 3:50, 6:35 Beauty and the Beast (PG): Friday-Saturday: 12:50, 3:40, 6:30, 9:20; Sunday-Thursday: 12:50, 3:40, 6:30 The Shack (PG-13): Friday: 12:45, 3:45, 6:40, 9:35; Saturday: 10:00, 3:45, 6:40, 9:35; Sunday-Thursday: 12:45, 3:45, 6:40 360-293-7000 CONCRETE THEATRE March 24-26 Manchester by the Se (R): Friday: 7:30; Saturday: 5:00 and 7:30; Sunday: 5:00 360-941-0403 CASCADE MALL THEATERS Burlington For showings: 888-AMC-4FUN (888-262-4386) * Times subject to change

teacher (Ice Cube) challenges a sniveling colleague (Charlie Day) to a fight after school in a comedy that’s ugly, mean-spirited and bereft of laughs. The 91 minutes of cinematic detention feel twice as long. Comedy, R, 91 minutes. Zero stars.

“The Comedian” — What’s more painful than watching a comedian bomb? Watching one of our great actors, Robert De Niro, bomb playing a comedian.

He and the rest of an exceptionally talented supporting cast flounder about in one ill-conceived set piece after another. Comedy drama, R, 120 minutes. H “A Dog’s Purpose” — There are some uplifting moments in this story of one dog living several lives through reincarnation, but the overall mood of Lasse Hallstrom’s pup-point-ofview film is ... melancholy, sometimes even grim. It just wears you down. Comedy drama, PG, 100 minutes. HH “Gold” — A great big performance by Matthew McConaughey, as a hard-drinking hustler looking for a rumored vein of gold in Indonesia, and the

OAK HARBOR CINEMAS March 24-30 The Metropolitan Opera: Idomeneo: Saturday: 9:55 a.m.

Power Rangers (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 12:45, 3:30, 6:45, 9:30; Sunday-Thursday: 12:45, 3:30, 6:45 Beauty and the Beast (PG): Friday-Saturday: 12:30, 3:20, 6:30, 9:10; Sunday-Thursday: 12:30, 3:20, 6:30 Kong: Skull Island (PG-13): Friday: 1:00, 3:50, 6:40, 9:35; Saturday: 3:50, 6:40, 9:35; Sunday-Thursday: 1:00, 3:50, 6:40 360-279-2226 STANWOOD CINEMAS March 24-30 Life (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:00, 3:45, 6:35, 9:45; Sunday-Thursday: 1:00, 3:45, 6:35 Power Rangers (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 12:50, 3:35, 6:30, 9:20; Sunday-Thursday: 12:50, 3:35, 6:30 Beauty and the Beast (PG): Friday-Saturday: 12:30, 3:20, 6:10, 9:00; Sunday-Thursday: 12:30, 3:20, 6:10 Beauty and the Beast in 3D (PG): Friday-Saturday: 12:55, 3:50, 6:40, 9:30; Sunday-Thursday: 12:55, 3:50, 6:40 Kong: Skull Island (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 3:25, 9:15; Sunday-Thursday: 3:25 The Shack (PG-13): Friday-Wednesday: 12:45, 6:45; Thursday: 12:45 Ghost in the Shell (PG-13): Thursday: 7:00 360-629-0514

fine work by the outstanding cast carries the day in this uneven and overlong but nonetheless entertaining American Dream saga.

Adventure drama, R, 121 minutes. HHH “Split” — James McAvoy does wonders with the role of a man with 23 personalities who abducts three teenage girls. With this chilling, creepy, bold and sometimes bat-bleep absurd thriller, writer-director M. Night Shyamalan serves notice he’s still got some nifty plot tricks up his sleeve. Thriller, PG-13, 117 minutes. HHH ½ “The Founder” — The casting of the eminently likable Michael Keaton as Ray Kroc, the sometimes unethical man who turned the McDonald brothers’ burger joint into a national fastfood powerhouse, is a stroke of genius. This whip-smart, breezy, sunny and yet also darkly funny slice of Americana is the first great movie I’ve seen in 2017. Biography, PG-13, 115 minutes. HHHH “Paterson” — The latest film by writer-director Jim Jarmusch is about one week in the life of a bus driver named Paterson (Adam

Driver, in maybe his most interesting screen performance to date) who lives in Paterson, New Jersey, and wants to be a poet. It’s a fable, brimming with symbolism and inside literary references, but also authentic and plausible, in its own weird way. Comedy drama, R, 115 minutes. HHH ½ “Live by Night” — Ben Affleck directs and stars in a curiously unfocused Prohibition-era gangster epic with some well-choreographed action scenes, a few provocative plot threads, but an increasingly meandering main story line that goes from intriguing to confounding to preachy to what exactly are we even watching here? Crime drama, R, 129 minutes. HH ½ “20th Century Women” — There’s not a single false, “actor-y” note in Annette Bening’s nuanced work as a middle-aged single mom who recruits her boarder (Greta Gerwig) and young neighbor (Elle Fanning) to help raise her teenage son.

The authentic, bittersweet, sometimes lyrical screenplay feels like a slim but engrossing novel. Drama, R, 118 minutes. HHH

REVIEW

MacLaine deserves better than ‘The Last Word’

By GARY THOMPSON Philadelphia Daily News

In “The Last Word,” Shirley MacLaine plays an octogenarian battle-ax who, in the opening moments, bullies her gardener, cook and hairdresser.

Later, alone in her big house with no one left to push around, she downs a bottle of pills and a bottle of wine, which is either a suicide attempt, or just another day, or both.

It’s played for bleak laughs, and off MacLaine’s late-career image, forged in “Terms of Endearment” — a tyrant, but one whose intimidating armor and weapons, we’re meant to understand, are merely the equipment that strong women acquire to survive in our culture.

Here, she is Harriet, a retired ad exec and notorious control freak. When she spies the obituary of a former acquaintance in the newspaper, she decides she can leave nothing to chance and coerces the young obituary writer Anne (Amanda Seyfried) to draft one that will meet her specifications.

Hercules would be daunted by such labor — Harriet has no friends, no sympathetic colleagues, no un-estranged family — and Anne is no Hercules. She’s a writer with ambition but no courage, stuck at a deadend job and now saddled with the most unpleasant assignment of her career.

From such apparent mismatches are buddy movies made, and “The Last Word” hews to genre norms, helped by appealing leads and an unusual (if not

entirely laudable) feat of screenwriting candor.

Harriet scripts her own obituary and decides it will be better if she is known to have provided volunteer assistance to a “minority or cripple” — and cynically sets about doing just that.

Thus, the movie takes its own shamelessness (AnnJewell Lee Dixon joins the gang as a precocious mascot) and incorporates it into the plot, wearing it almost like insulation.

Fake friendship, of course, turns into real feeling. Other calculated Harriet initiatives also become sincere, and the parallel personal circumstances of the lead characters (family estrangement) converge amid jaunty road trips and several stand-up-andcheer moments.

MacLaine gets two standing ovations. It’s a problem. “The Last Word” is a love letter to the actress, but respect would have helped the movie more. She doesn’t need the applause — her sharpness, skill, and timing are obviously intact.

Watching her in “The Last Word,” in fact, I kept thinking how helpful it would have been to send her out on stage last month at the Oscars with woozy brother Warren.

She would have spotted that bum envelope in a second, given Price Waterhouse a piece of her mind, and awarded best picture to the best picture.

— Rated: R (language).

Cast: Anne Heche, Shirley MacLaine, Philip Baker Hall, Thomas Sadowski, Amanda Seyfried, Tom Everett Scott. HH (out of four stars).

E16 - Thursday, March 23, 2017

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

C A S I N O • R E S O RT

OVER 400 SHOWS IN 17 YEARS, & MANY MORE TO COME! Crystal Gayle The Supremes Glenn Miller Revolvers Beach Boys & Friends Johnny Rivers Hermans Hermits Wilson Phillips Lee Greenwood New Years Eve Party Tony Orlando Doc Severinsen The Coasters Leon Russell 5Th Dimension America Toni Tenille Spirit Of Ireland Neil Diamond Trace Adkins Three Dog Night Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Oak Ridge Boys Bill Engvall Gladys Knight Blood, Sweat & Tears Natalie Cole Michael Bolton Dwight Yokam Keith Urban Leann Rimes Disco Mania Righteous Brothers Patty atty Loveless Seattle International Comedy Competition Ronnie Milsap Dave Mason Joe Diffie Gino Vannelli Joe Nichols Collin Raye The he Smothers Brothers Tanya Tucker Australia’s Thunder From rom Down Under Josh Gr Gracin Rita Coolidge Aaron Tippin ippin Caroline Rhea Rita Rudner Restless Heart Black Hawk Little Texas Vikki ikki Carr Men Of Las Vegas Debbie Reynolds The Letterman Christmas Show Vegas Pin-Ups Joan Rivers The Marshall Tucker Band Heartland Charo UFC 84 The Fab Four our Judy Collins UFC 88 Vince Mira Abbacadabra Brenda Lee Larry Gatlin And TThe Gatlin Brothers Frankie ankie Avalon Petula etula Clark Hotel California Bruce In The Usa Phil Vasser Starship John Reep Dk Morgan Americas Diamond Eddie Money Lorrie Morgan Chicago Tribute ribute Fab ab Four our Tribute Pam Tillis Sawyer Brown Vince Mira Brenda Lee Xmas Bruce Hornsby The Turtles Neal Mckoy Ricky Neslon Tribute ribute Little Anthony Richard Marx Lonestar Repp And Ferrara Terri Clark Rockoberfest Survivor Josh Gracin Garrett Wilkins & The Parrotheads arrotheads Marlin James J Henry Cho & Dat Phan Phil Vasser KBRC Rocks The he Skagit Manhattans KMPS Country Nights Debby Boone KAFE Breakfast Club Blue Oyster Cult Tribute Buckaroo Blues Band Rat Pack Tribute Craig Morgan Nathan Anderson Darryl Worley orley Journey Tribute Mo Trouble Rich Little Blues Traveler Roy Clark Rock And Roll Heaven Christopher Titus itus $5 Fine Jo Dee Mesina Southern Fried F Chicks Foghat Broken Trail Delbert Mclinton Fabulous Thunderbirds Timothy imothy Schmit Super Diamond Smithereens BJ Thomas Diamond Rio Barb & Frank Paul Revere Jim Breur John Anderson Joan Osbourne Hells Belles Presidents Of The USA Rockabilly Romp Eric Burdon Gary Puckett Restless Heart Kiss Live Gin Blossoms Tom Papa apa Justin Shandor Ultimate Elvis Blue Sky Riders Zepparella Colin Hay Doc Severinsen Peter P Noone Rick Sprinfield The Nylons S. Earle & The Dukes es John Conlee Mac King Air Supply Cash’d Out Micky Dolenz Jay White As Neil Diamond Burton Cummings The he English Beat Marty Stuart Bee Gee's Gold Sebastian Maniscaico Bret Micheals Elton John Tribute Owen Benjamin Helen Hong Heart By Heart Melissa Manchester Charlie Musselwhite Alex Raymondo Lisa Alvardo Pablo Francisco Leann Womack Margaret Cho Pam Tillis The Commodores Andy Gross Grand Funk Railroad Don Mclean Lonestar Venessa Williams Morgane Latouche Tower Of Power ower John Michael Montgomery Killer Queen Tribute Aaron Nevill Emme Lou Harris Marshall Tucker er

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