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The nation’s best Lido 14 sailors converge on Anacortes PAGE 3

Jim Breuer “Saturday Night Live” alum to play the Skagit Valley Casino this weekend PAGE 4

Reviews Music: Susanna Hoffs, Nas Video Games: “NCAA Football 13” PAGES 6-7

Roger Ebert Batman returns to the big screen in “The Dark Knight Rises” PAGE 16 Skagit Valley Herald Thursday, July 19, 2012

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, July 19, 2012

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “Friends with Kids”: Best friends decide to have a baby together. Adam Scott stars. The film from writer/director/ star Jennifer Westfeldt takes one step further the concept of best friends having uncommitted sex. Best buds Jason (Scott) and Julie (Westfeldt) plan to have sex one time so they can conceive a child. They want offspring, but they also want to keep dating. They plan to share child-raising duties equally. It’s an idea that their friends — and the audience — know from the start just won’t work. Both begin to get jealous of the other’s love life and that eventually affects their agreement. “Lockout”: A rogue cop (Guy Pearce) must infiltrate a space prison to save the president’s daughter (Maggie Grace). “Lockout” would be little more than a movie version of a second-tier video game without Guy Pearce. The irreverence, cockiness and bravado he brings to the character of Snow is almost electric enough to put this action film in the same league as “Die Hard.” Almost isn’t good enough, though. That means this tale of a rogue cop who battles impossible odds ends up more in the category of “Cobra.” “Dan Vs.: The Complete First Season”: Animated series starring Curtis Armstrong as the voice of the volatile Dan, who thinks the world is against him. Average-guy Dan goes against a wedding, dentist, gym, dinosaur and New Mexico, moving through a slow boil that eventually erupts into a comedic explosion. Armstrong’s voice is a key part of why the show works. He speaks for Dan with just enough creepiness to make the character interesting. “Alphas: The Complete First Season”: The cable series follows a group of social misfits with extraordinary powers — known as Alphas — who work for the Department of Defense. That sounds cool, but while the crime fighters may be able to read minds or have super strength, they still work in the real world and have to deal with everything from curfews to feeding the parking meter. David Strathairn, an Oscar nominee for “Good Night, and Good Luck,” plays Dr. Leigh Rosen, a preeminent neurologist and psychiatrist who has put together a team of Alphas to deal with Alpha-related cases. This is a first-rate action series made better by the smart writing. “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen”: A British fisheries expert (Ewan McGregor) is asked to help bringing fly-

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

Upcoming movie releases Following is a partial schedule of coming movies on DVD. Release dates are subject to change: JULY 24 The Deep Blue Sea - Music Box Footnote - Sony The Lucky One - Warner Meeting Evil - Sony My Way - Well Go USA

This Weekend / Page 5

AUG. 7 Blue Like Jazz - Lionsgate Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax - Universal AUG. 14 Stallone 3-Film Collector’s Set - Lionsgate Breathless - Anchor Bay The Raid: Redemption - Sony AUG. 21 The Dictator - Paramount Chimpanzee - Disney A Separation - Sony AUG. 28 Battleship - Universal The Five-Year Engagement - Universal The Pirates! Band of Misfits - Sony Think Like a Man - Sony

Check out the area’s best skateboarders on Friday in Anacortes

Inside

SUBMISSIONS Email features@skagitpublishing.com vrichardson@skagitpublishing. com (recreation items)

n McClatchy-Tribune News Service

fishing to the desert. “Sanctuary: The Complete Fourth Season”: The final season of the series starring Amanda Tapping. “The Three Stooges”: Moe, Larry and Curly are off on new head-slapping adventures. Sean Hayes stars. “MLK: The Assassination Tapes”: A look at the manhunt for Dr. King’s assassin and the riots that erupted across the country. “Casa De Mi Padre”: Will Ferrell’s Spanish-language comedy. “Night Court: The Complete Sixth Season”: Harry Anderson legal comedy. “James May’s 20th Century”: A look at how inventions changed our lives. “Eureka: Season 5, The Final Season”: Colin Ferguson stars in the cable series about the very smart residents of a small town. “American Masters: Johnny Carson: King of Late Night”: Kevin Spacey narrates. “Singin’ in the Rain”: Three-disc set offers hours of bonus material about the classic film “Bonanza: The Official Third Season: Volume One and Two”: The Cartwright family faces the challenges of living in the wild west. n Rick Bentley, McClatchy Newspapers

Phone 360-416-2135 Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274

Music, Video Game Reviews.......6-7 Get Involved.................................... 8 At the Lincoln Theatre.................... 9 On Stage........................................ 10 Tuning Up..................................... 11 Travel........................................12-13

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

ON THE COVER

HAVE A STORY IDEA? w For arts and entertainment, contact Features Editor Craig Parrish at 360-416-2135 or features@skagitpublishing.com w For recreation, contact staff writer Vince Richardson at 360-416-2181 or vrichardson@ skagitpublishing.com

David Way (left) guides his sailboat past Austin Murphy’s boat during a practice race on Fidalgo Bay between five boats from Fleet 78.

TO ADVERTISE 360-424-3251

Hot Tickets.................................... 14 Roger Ebert.................................... 16 Movie Listings............................... 17 Out & About.............................18-19

Colin Diltz / Skagit Valley Herald

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, July 19, 2012 - E3

RECREATION

National Class Championship Regatta comes to Fidalgo Bay JULY 23-27, RACES BEGIN AT 2 P.M. EACH DAY

Barbara King works to flip her boat up after almost rolling over during a practice race July 1 on Fidalgo Bay. Colin Diltz / Skagit Valley Herald

ship Regatta on the waters of Fidalgo Bay. Some 30 boats are expected to compete. ANACORTES — Any sailor The Junior Championships will worth his or her salt has spent time be held July 23, the Senior Chamat the helm of a Lido 14 sailboat. pionships will take place July 24-26, Many of the world’s top sailors and the Women’s Championships have climbed aboard the dinghy are July 27. and pitted themselves against Following the junior regatta, all Mother Nature, as well as other boats will compete in a series of sailors. races. By day’s end, the fleet will be The best Lido 14 sailors from halved, divided into gold and silver around the U.S. will converge on flights, something unique to this class of boat. Anacortes from July 23-27 as the The regatta’s final two days will Anacortes Lido 14 Fleet will host be full-tilt racing, culminating with the 55th annual Class ChampionBy VINCE RICHARDSON Staff Writer

gold and silver champions. The Lido 14 was first designed in 1958 and has been in continuous production since, with about 6,300 boats. The Lido 14 offers affordability, longevity and appeal to a wide skill range of sailboat racers. It is the only one-design boat actively raced in Anacortes. Nationally, the Lido fleet primarily resides west of the Mississippi, with the West Coast harboring numerous fleets in locations such as Seattle, Portland, Eugene, Ore., and California. There are also fleets based in Texas and Ohio, and

numerous individuals sail independently throughout the country. Governed by the Lido 14 Class Association, Fleet 1 is located in Newport, Calif., while Fleet 78 calls Anacortes is home port. Regatta chairman Steve Orsini is one of several local entrants in the national championship event. He’s been sailing for years and said he’s looking forward to racing against some of the top Lido 14 captains in the country. He is the Lido 14 District VI champion. “It’s going to be a lot of fun,” he said. “Especially since we get to

host the event.” It wasn’t that Anacortes didn’t want to host the national championships; rather, Orsini said, it was the fact they didn’t have the infrastructure to do so. “Now we have a dock as well as hoist,” he said. “So that makes it much, much easier to host an event like this. It is a really big deal. This is the first time we’ve hosted a national regatta and it’s something we’ve been working toward for 20 years.” See SAILING, Page E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, July 19, 2012

COMEDY

THE LOVES OF HIS LIFE – AND THE BUTTS OF HIS JOKES Jim Breuer’s family takes center stage in his standup act On stage: Comedian Jim Breuer When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, July 20-21. Where: Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. Cost: $31-$40. Tickets: 877-2752448 or www.the skagit.com.

“Half-Baked,” Breuer said the favorite part of his career is doing standup. While he has enjoyed many of his roles, he likes Married with three daughters and a being able to “own, write and direct” his 90-year-old father, comedian Jim Breuer comedy. will have plenty of material for his per“I can live with it whether I live or fail, formances this weekend at Skagit Valley because it’s all on me,” he said. “It’s the Casino Resort. The unlikely family man ultimate form of freedom.” loves to joke about his family — especially Breuer, 46, began doing standup when the trials of dealing with an elderly parent. he was in high school, writing acts and “They didn’t teach me in school about performing them in his basement. He said how to be married, how to be a parent,” he was largely influenced by Steve Martin he said. “They especially didn’t teach me and his ability to be “ridiculous and silly,” how to take my 90-year-old father to the George Carlin and his strong writing, and bathroom.” Richard Pryor and his “ability to make Famous for his roles on TV’s “Satureverything funny.” day Night Live” and in the 1998 comedy “The guy took having a heart attack and By AMELIA DICKSON Staff Writer

made it funny,” Breuer said of Pryor. “I really admire that.” Breuer gauges his own success through the reactions of his 13-year-old daughter Gabrielle, who spends a lot of time touring with him. He said she’s his biggest fan. “I’m more proud of that than anything,” he said. This will be Breuer’s first time in the area, and he’s excited he’s bringing his whole family. He plans on spending one of his days here whale-watching in Puget Sound — and possibly generating more comedic material. n Amelia Dickson can be reached at 360416-2130 or adickson@skagitpublishing.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, July 19, 2012 - E5

THIS WEEKEND in the area SKATEFEST

ZOMBIE CRAWL The Lincoln Theatre will host its first Zombie Crawl beginning at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 21, in downtown Mount Vernon. Participants will dress as zombies, visit 10 bars and restaurants, and learn the “Zombie Shuffle” for a flash mob in Pine Square. Makeup artists will be available to assist with Colin Diltz / Skagit Valley Herald zombie makeup. Michael Thornton shows, with just a little Tickets ($8 advance, $10 makeup and some toilet paper, that looking day of event) are available like a zombie can be easy. at www.lincolntheatre.org or at the Lincoln ticket office, 712 S. First St. All proceeds benefit the Lincoln Theater. 360-336-8955.

SUMMER CONCERT

STANWOOD GHOST TOUR & BBQ

The Cap Sante Marina Summer Concert Series is offering free concerts at Seafarers’ Memorial Park in Anacortes. Next up: 7 p.m. Friday, July 20: Desperado: An evening of the Eagles 360-293-3134 or www.portofanacortes.com

The event will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 21, at Heritage Park, 9800 276th St. NW, Stanwood. Enjoy a potluck barbecue followed by a ghost walk to haunted locations around Stanwood. Free. 360-629-2888

STONE CARVERS ARTWALK

Check out some of the best skateboarders in the area from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 20, at Ben Root Skate Park, 2313 R Ave., Anacortes. Registration begins at 5 p.m., followed by skateboard demonstrations and competition from 6 to 9 p.m. Free. 360-293-1918

The Northwest Stone Sculptors Association’s annual artwalk show and sale will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 21, at Camp Brotherhood, 24880 Brotherhood Road, near Mount Vernon. The show is part of the NWSSA’s 25th annual symposium, where stone carvers from the Pacific Northwest and beyond will gather for eight days of workshops, stone carving, discussion about art and more. www.nwssa.org

RED ROOSTER ROUTE DAYS Enjoy a cock-a-doodle-doo hoedown on the farm from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 21-22, at Biringer Farm, 21412 59th Ave. NE, Arlington. Kids’ activities include a giant strawberry ride, pony rides on Saturday, kiddie airplane rides, giant inflatables, pig-butt bowling, face painting, farm animals, story time and lots more. Bring your own homemade strawberry or raspberry jam and join the second annual jam taste testing party. Free admission. Some activities require fees. 425-259-0255 or www.biringerfarm.com

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, July 19, 2012

REVIEWS MUSIC CDS Compiled from news services

Milo Greene

Susanna Hoffs

Tumblr-page announcement that shook the urban music world came less than two weeks before the release of his sopho“Milo “Someday” more album, “Channel Orange,” bringing Greene” him an avalanche of publicity and making Don’t be him the most celebrated figure in music at Somefooled by the the moment. where in gloomy-lookIt would all seem a bit manufactured the isolated ing cover: — if we were talking about a lesser artist. foothills of Listening But the 24-year-old Ocean — who already northern to Bangles had music fans in the know enraptured by California, there must be something member Susanna Hoffs’ solo album is a his self-released “nostalgia, ULTRA” last magical in the water. How else to explain bit like walking through a flower patch on year — is so genuine in his artistry that it’s the musical culmination of a house-sitting a sunny spring day, circa 1967. The birds unthinkable that anything else in his mind stint that took three college classmates are chirping. Everyone you see smiles. could be contrived. And on the wonderful and turned them into Milo Greene, a very Everything’s groovy. “Channel Orange,” Ocean continues to new and very good band with a self-titled That’s only a problem if you’re on a demonstrate that he’s among the truest, debut album? sugar-free diet, or crave the wail of a brightest new talents to come on the scene To be clear, there is no man named spurned lover. Even when Hoffs sings, in a while. Milo Greene — it was merely a device “ooh, it hurts” on “Regret,” it hurts so In many ways, “Channel Orange” picks concocted in the band’s early days to good. Hoffs’ musical reference point has up where “nostalgia, ULTRA” left off: make it appear as though they had a man- always been the 1960s, and here this Cali- It continues on a similar musical path, ager. fornia girl and producer Mitchell Froom filled with luscious, pillowy slow grooves They’re hardly faking it on this album, dive fully into it. The horns and string (“Thinkin Bout You,” “Pilot Jones”), “Milo Greene,” a tapestry of richly rearrangements recall heroes like Burt whirring electro beats (“Pyramids”) and verbed guitar, inventive drum work and Bacharach and Dusty Springfield without retro-soul (“Sweet Life”). But “Channel something sorely missing amid today’s repeating them. Hoffs indulges her love Orange” digs deeper than just intriguing morass of arrange-by-numbers rock melodies and beats: Ocean, who co-wrote for pure pop and, with co-writer Andrew music — a beautifully delivered concept. Brassell, avoids cringe-worthy material most of the album with the likes of PharThat concept is to present their music rell Williams, James Ho and others, gets like “Eternal Flame” (admit it — even if absent of the disturbances of a frenetic political on “Crack Rock” and deeply you bought it). society that closes in from all sides. personal on “Bad Religion,” where he’s This is a one-dimensional disc, to be They admittedly aimed for a pastoral tormented by a male lover who doesn’t sure. The signature harmonies of the feel and it shows on wind-swept tracks Bangles are missed, as is the grit Matthew return the affection, and cries: “If it brings like “What’s The Matter” and “Perfectly me to my knees, it’s a bad religion.” Sweet brings to the “Sid & Susie” colAligned.” Of course, it’s Ocean’s same-sex declaborations with Hoffs. But if it’s a walk Milo Greene, now a five-piece outfit, laration that has garnered him so much through the flower patch you want, you is often carried here by lush vocals from attention over the last two weeks. But could do worse. Marlana Sheetz. She hits each note on anyone expecting “Channel Orange” to be CHECK THIS TRACK OUT: The lush “Son My Son” with perfect pitch, yet with ballad “True,” where Hoffs speaks of a some kind of gay pride statement may be just enough throaty delivery to keep the relationship with the wisdom of a 53-year- disappointed: On most of the songs he’s lyrics alive and seeping with emotion. pining for a woman, and the most overt old, as opposed to the starry-eyed optiSome songs have a jazz cadence, while mism of someone 30 years younger. same-sex love song, “Forrest Gump,” may others are tinged with bluegrass. Each be social commentary, but it comes across n David Bauder, Associated Press approach carries with it something conas just a sweet, whimsical love song — templative about isolation amid bustle. which, at its heart, it is. “Milo Greene” is about as impressive a Frank As headline-grabbing as Ocean’s recent debut album you can have for music of announcement turned out to be, the Ocean this flavor. enduring story remains his talent, which “Channel CHECK THIS TRACK OUT: The band is showcased brilliantly on “Channel Orange” saves the best for last with the final track, Orange.” “Autumn Tree.” The harmonies are full CHECK THIS TRACK OUT: The most In this and focused and the melody swells as the cynical luxurious slow jam of the year, thus far, is song goes on. For a band that didn’t exist world, Frank the ever-dreamy “Thinkin Bout You,” as four years ago, they sound like they’ve Ocean’s seductive falsetto gets the heart Ocean’s timbeen singing this forever. pacing. ing in revealing his sexuality seems a bit curious: The n Ron Harris, Associated Press n Nekesa Mumbi Moody, Associated Press

Nas

“Life Is Good” On the cover of his 10th album, “Life Is Good,” the urban troubadour known as Nas is dressed in a white suit, glumly holding his ex-wife Kelis’ green wedding dress — the only thing left behind after the couple’s publicly acrimonious divorce. By way of his art, Nas both washes his laundry in public and shows he has moved on. Producers No I.D. and Salaam Remi give this very personal record an aura of nostalgia, a throwback to the golden age of hip-hop, by using classic beats. Collaborations with artists like Mary J. Blige, Rick Ross and Swizz Beatz and Nas’ solos arrange themselves into a coherent necklace made of discreet gems. Old mixes with new, noir enters the flow and the lyrics are tinged with both vulnerability and brutality. Nas is the same master wordsmith as he was when he first bowled over critics with his 1994 debut “Illmatic.” He tackles thug life, chrematistics and the pursuit of status, yet shows signs of growth by considering more personal topics like parenthood, love and his relationship with his celebrity. Songs like “Daughters,” where he raps about his own real-life parenting struggles with his teenage daughter, or “Bye Baby,” where he addresses the breakdown of his marriage and his subsequent bleeding heart, show a touching self-awareness. “Cherry Wine” featuring the late Amy Winehouse paints him in a surprising light where he is unshackled by the stereotypical rap views of women. Nas manages to make a clean break with the past by submersing himself and us in it. CHECK OUT THIS TRACK: “You Wouldn’t Understand,” with its fast beat enhanced by Victoria Monet’s crystalline voice. n By Cristina Jaleru, Associated Press

Please recycle this newspaper

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Thursday, July 19, 2012 - E7

REVIEWS VIDEO GAMES Chris Campbell, Scripps Howard News Service

‘Spec Ops: The Line’

‘NCAA Football 13’

“Heart of Darkness” is my favorite book of all time. My friend Luke and I talk about it often and jokingly reminisce about a college professor who may or may not have said its themes were best discussed while taking peyote. Discovering that “Spec Ops” follows a very similar narrative path. You play as Walker, one of three Delta Force soldiers trapped in Dubai when a massive sandstorm blankets the city and re-adjusts modern life. The city becomes a chaotic free-for-all. Channeling Joseph Conrad’s novel, you venture out into the desolate city in search of a missing general named Konrad (get it?), who disobeyed orders and may have sacrificed a battalion of troops. Diving into the nitty-gritty of the game, “choppy as the sandy desert air” best describes the action. You battle a mix of vandals, rogue soldiers and other obstacles, often meeting little resistance. A few choices are presented to you. But the impact of them is never felt, and the campaign lasts less than 10 hours, so you’ll finish just as the weak-feeling guns start to leave you wanting something with more oomph. Most of the game’s efforts seem focused on the online multiplayer, and welldesigned maps make for fun shootouts. Luke and I often say that “Darkness” channels Nietzsche’s quote about man looking into the abyss, and “The Line” teases the gamer to have a similar experience. It unfortunately ends before you get to linger long enough on that moral question — instead, shuttling you off into the void of online shooters where deep meaning is lost in a hail of continuous gunfire.

More than a decade of publishing both the “Madden” and “NCAA” football franchises has left EA Sports in a death spin of repetition. Some kind of “new” addition is made to the NFL series, which then gets hyped as “new” for the following year’s college game. It leaves the franchises treading water. Yes, EA has inserted the obligatory “enhancements” for this year, the most noticeable called the Heisman Challenge. Pick a past Heisman winner (Doug Flutie, Barry Sanders, etc.) and re-create their experiences, but in today’s college game, and, in a huge twist, at any school you desire. Don’t think for a second I didn’t bring Sanders’ lightning-quick moves to Kentucky for a run at SEC glory. Entertaining? Yes. Completely illogical and leaving you often asking, “What’s the point?” Double-yes. Sadly, outside of comically enrolling Flutie at Miami or Eddie George at Michigan, nothing really special happens here. The rest of the gameplay and modes remain almost unchanged, the chief offender being the Dynasty Mode. This remains a Sisyphean chore of slow menus and tedious actions that can only bore you beyond belief. I’m not sure if I can venture into this mode next year unless drastic moves make it ... oh, I dunno ... fun. Outside of some spiffier player animations and a couple of visual tweaks, how many of us could differentiate between this and 2010’s edition? Football fans will still love it, but that doesn’t mean it’s not getting crusty and stale.

Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC Genre: Shooter Publisher: 2K Games ESRB Rating: M, for Mature Grade: 3 stars (out of 5)

Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 Genre: Sports Publisher: EA Sports ESRB Rating: E, for Everyone Grade: 2.5 stars

n Follow Chris Campbell at twitter.com/ campbler or email him at game_on_games@ mac.com.

Continue the cycle – please recycle this newspaper

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E8 - Thursday, July 19, 2012

GET INVOLVED ART CALL FOR PHOTOS: The first “Shoot La Conner” Photo Contest is accepting digital photo entries through Aug. 10. Submit your best photos depicting what makes La Conner special and unique. Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries — an overnight stay at the La Conner Channel Lodge for first place, $100 for second place, and $50 for third. Find complete rules and submit entries at www.lovelaconner.com.

call 206-510-1085 or visit www.artysmarty.net.

ART CLASSES: Sign up for a variety of upcoming art classes at Gallery by the Bay, 8700 271st NW, Stanwood. Preregistration required: 360-629-4297 or www.gallerybythebay.com. Life Drawing: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays. Draw from a live nude model. Poses are mixed, gesture, short and long poses. Sessions are facilitated by experienced professional artists. No instruction provided. $12 per drop-in session or $10 a week when you sign CALL FOR ARTISTS AND up for a month at a time. CRAFTERS: The Mount Introductory GlassblowVernon Downtown Assoing Session: Choose a day ciation is looking for artists and time, weekdays from 4 and crafters of all ages for to 6 p.m. or 6 to 8 p.m., at the annual Sidewalk Sale, Glass Quest Studio near set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stanwood. Create your Friday and Saturday, July own blown glass float or 27-28, in downtown Mount ornament. $60. Vernon. For information, call Nancy at 360-336-6106 TODDLER ART EXPLOor visit www.mountvernon RATION: Ages 2 to 4, with downtown.org. an adult, 11 a.m. to noon

hood, 24880 Brotherhood Road, near Mount Vernon. Stone carvers from the Northwest and beyond will gather for a variety of workshops, demonstrations and hands-on instruction, culminating in a sculpture show on Saturday, July 21.

walk along nearby Whatcom Creek. $3 suggested donation, free for museum members. Preregistration required: 360-778-8960.

ALL COMER TRACK MEETS: Athletes of all ages can compete in a variety of track events begin“BIRDS OF A FEATHER: ning at 5 p.m. Wednesday, LET’S DRAW TOGETHER!”: July 25, at the BurlingtonEdison High School track, Ages 5 to 16, 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 21, Whatcom 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. Registration Museum’s Syre Educaopens at 5 p.m. Field events tion Center, 201 Prospect start at 5:30 p.m. followed St., Bellingham. Using by running events at 6 p.m. the museum’s bird collec$5. For information, contion for inspiration, artist tact Burlington Parks and Donna Washington will Recreation Department at teach how artists observe 360-755-9649 or visit www. details and show particici.burlington.wa.us. pants how to use them to draw a bird and add a colTENNIS TOURNAMENT: orful watercolor wash. $3 The Skagit Valley Tennis suggested donation, free Association will host the for museum members. fourth annual Nick Whiton Preregistration required: Memorial Scholarship 360-778-8960. tournament Friday through Sunday, July 20-22, at Skagit AUDITIONS Valley College in Mount “ONE FLEW OVER THE Vernon. Registration: $35 CUCKOO’S NEST”: AnaThursdays, Aug. 2-16, at juniors, $50 adults. Includes cortes Community Theatre snacks, lunch, a tournament FAIR SEEKS VENDORS: the Whatcom Museum The Skagit County Fair Lightcatcher Building, 250 will hold auditions from gift and free raffle drawings. seeks vendors of all types Flora St., Bellingham. With 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. Spectators are welcome. All 11, and 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, for the annual event on the help of their parents proceeds will benefit the Aug. 8-11 in Mount Verand teaching artist Gabriel Aug. 12, at 918 M Ave., Nick Whiton Scholarship Anacortes. Auditions will non. For information, call Miles, toddlers will learn Fund. Register by July 17. consist of cold readings 360-336-9414, email fair about the foundations 360-766-7420 or www.nick from the script. The show grounds@co.skagit.wa.us of art through creative whitontennis.com. or visit www.skagitcounty. exploration. $25-$35; drop- will run Sept. 28-Oct. 20. 360-293-6829 or www.act net/fair. ins: $12-$15. Registration “TIDES & CURRENTS theatre.com. required: 360-778-8985 or AT PLAY IN FIDALGO FIGinfo@cob.org. ART CLASSES BAY!”: Join the Trail Tales RECREATION docents for an interpretive CLASSES: Dakota Art CARTOONING FOR KNOW YOUR DUCKS walk from 2 to 3:30 p.m. offers a variety of art KIDS: 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, (AND OTHER BIRDS)!: Saturday, July 21, along the classes and workshops at Tommy Thompson Trail 17873 Highway 536, Mount Aug. 7-28, Burlington Parks Enjoy a tour for ages 6 to in Anacortes. Meet at the Vernon. 360-416-6556, ext. and Recreation Center, 900 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, July 20, at the Whatcom 34th Street sign along the 5, or www.dakotaartcenter. E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. Kids ages 7-12 will Museum’s Syre Education trail to learn facts about com. learn basic drawing skills Center, 201 Prospect St., tides and currents, includBellingham. Children and ing how they affect the SUMMER ART CAMPS: and leave with a portfolio of their favorite cartoon parents can view the muse- shape of the bay and the Arty Smarty is enrolling characters. $40. Register by um’s bird collection as for- quantity and quality of the students from preschool July 31: 360-755-9649. mer local Audubon Society water it holds. Tides and through eighth grade for president Joe Meche shares currents also influence the summer art camps on STONE CARVERS SYM- ways to identify birds based health of plants and aniCamano Island. Several POSIUM: The 25th annual on their habitat and behav- mals, as well as our ability sessions will be offered ior. The tour will be folto see them. Free. www. event will take place July now through August. For lowed by an optional bird skagitbeaches.org. information or to register, 14-22 at Camp Brother-

FARMERS MARKET BIKE RIDE: The Skagit Bicycle Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, July 21, at the Skagit River revetment parking area between Pine and Myrtle streets in Mount Vernon. Enjoy an approximately 26-mile ride and then have breakfast/ lunch at the Farmers Market. 360-445-5924.

Vernon. Registration begins at 8 a.m. followed by a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Four-person team scramble. Handicap not necessary. $20 entry payable to “Rally for the Cure.” Additional greens fees payable at registration. Awards and potluck luncheon provided by the club. Information: 360-416-6954.

TRAIL TALES INTERPRETIVE BIKE RIDE: Join the Tuesday evening bike group at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 24, on Railroad Avenue at the north end of Commercial Avenue in Anacortes. Learn about the cleanup work addressing toxins along the Anacortes shoreline under the Washington Department of Ecology’s Anacortes Baywide Cleanup Project. Along the ride to March Point, Trail Tales docents will share information about cleanup sites on Guemes Channel and Fidalgo Bay. All ages welcome. Free. Don’t forget your helmet. www.skagit beaches.org.

THEATER IMPROV CLASSES: Free improv classes taught by Sheila Goldsmith of Improv Playworks. Registration required: 360-7560756 or www.improvplay works.com. Adults and teens: 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, July 25 and Aug. 15, Improv Playworks Studio, 302 W. Illinois St., Bellingham. For adults and seniors: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 20, The Willows Senior Living, 3115 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham.

SUMMER DRAMA CAMP: The Lincoln Theatre Summer Drama Camp for Teens will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday HOSPICE GOLF TOURNA- through Friday, Aug. 13-17, MENT: The Similk Ladies at the Lincoln Theatre, 712 Golf Club will host the S. First St., Mount Vernon. Hospice Golf Tournament Teens can take part in acton Wednesday, July 25, ing, improv, dance, mime, at Similk Golf Course in writing and more onstage Anacortes. Check-in begins at the Lincoln. $275, partial at 7:30 a.m. followed by a scholarships available. 360shotgun start at 8:30. Men 419-7129, ext. 101, or www. and women welcome. $30, lincolntheatre.org. includes snacks, lunch, prizes and raffle. Greens fees not included. Proceeds ben- WORKSHOPS WRITERS WORKSHOP: efit the Hospice Northwest The Skagit Valley Writers Foundation. For information or to register: 360-293- League will host a free workshop for writers from 3334 or 360-420-4889. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 26, at the Mount GOLF TOURNEY: OverVernon Senior Center, look Women’s Golf Club will sponsor a golf tourna- 1401 Cleveland St. Author Susan Wingate will present ment to raise money for “Plotting, Suspense and Breast Cancer research Tension.” RSVP to Sharon on Wednesday, July 25, at at 360-391-2042 or www. Overlook Golf Course, skagitwriters.org. 17523 Highway 9, Mount

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, July 19, 2012 - E9

AT THE LINCOLN THEATRE 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360-336-8955 n www.lincolntheatre.org

‘Der Rosenkavalier’

‘The Tempest’

6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 25

7:30 p.m. Friday, July 20 Starring Academy Award-winner Christopher Plummer, “The Tempest” captures the stage play filmed live at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival. The film pits the desire for revenge against the demands of love and asks if man is capable of creating a brave new world. $15 general, $13 seniors, $11 students, with $2 off for Lincoln members.

‘Hysteria’ Colin Diltz / Skagit Valley Herald

Friends and members of the Lido 14 Fleet 78 of Anacortes start a practice race July 1 on Fidalgo Bay. The fleet will host the 2012 Lido national championships on July 23-27.

w Sailing

sailing Lidos. “This is true dinghy sailing. You learn it all aboard Continued from Page E3 these boats; you have to. You are constantly looking Orsini explained the Lido 14 was the first fiber- where the wind is coming glass dinghy built primarily from, figuring out when to tack. Then when you as a day sailor. are racing, it’s really like “They are relatively a chess game out on the cheap,” he said. “That water.” allows all sorts of folks to Anacortes’ Fred Abelget involved with sailing. man, a two-time national And since they are a onechampion, will plot the design class, governed by course. He will go out into length and weight, meaning the dimensions have to Fidalgo Bay in the commitbe the same, racers have to tee boat a couple of hours before the race in search really rely on their skills. of wind. Everyone is on the same “Hopefully, it will plane.” become very apparent to Orsini described his Lido 14, Hull No. 6,310, as me which way the wind is coming,” he said. “What I a straightforward dinghy at 14 feet long, 6 feet wide will be looking for is tendencies. That comes from and sailed by two people. local knowledge and hav“The width makes it ing sailed this area a lot. quite stable,” he said. “There is a lot of floatation. On this bay, when the sun “That allows for a range goes down, the wind goes of individuals to sail. A lot off. That’s why we want a noon start. of people learn to sail in “I am looking for a westthese boats. There are sailors racing in the America’s erly. That’s usually a wind direction you can count Cup who started in Lidos. on.” There have been a lot of What Abelman will sailors who have gone on to attain great things after be looking for is enough

wind to support as many around-the buoy races as possible over a 45-minute time span. Boats will sail once around the course. A sequence of flags and horns will notify racers of the start. A sequence of flags also rules the event. Captains will have to focus on their own vessels as well as on the committee boat and the various flags communicating particular situations. “You have to keep your eyes trained on the flags,” Abelman said. “If you jump the line early, you are going to get the black flag; get that and you’re out. As I once heard a principle race official say, my job is to ‘diminish confusion and increase fairness.’” Abelman is looking forward to signaling that first race. “I love competitive sailing,” he said. “It’s just great fun to be at the starting line. Especially when you are at the helm.” n Vince Richardson can be reached at 360-416-2181 or by email at vrichardson@ skagitpublishing.com.

dents and active military: $8, $7 members, $6 ages 12 and under. Bargain matinees (all shows before 6 p.m.) $7 general, $5 members, $5 ages 12 and under.

Strauss’s comic masterpiece of love and intrigue in 18th century Vienna stars Renée Fleming as the aristocratic Marschallin and Susan Graham in the trouser role of her young lover. $15 general, $13 seniors, $11 students and children with a $2 member discount. Six-tickets-for-the-price-of-five bundle available.

‘Love Never Dies’

7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 26

5:30 p.m. Sunday, July 22 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 23 7:24 p.m. Tuesday, July 24 “Hysteria,” a romantic comedy set in the late 19th century, stars Academy Award-nominee Maggie Gyllenhaal and Hugh Dancy, alongside Jonathan Pryce, Rupert Everett and Felicity Jones. A clever love story, an amusing comedy of manners, and a smart message movie. Rated R. $9 general, $8 seniors, stu-

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Love Never Dies” is the highly anticipated sequel to “The Phantom of the Opera.” This performance is from The Regent Theatre in Melbourne, Australia. This is a mesmerizing follow-up to the multi-award winning “Phantom”, featuring a 21-piece orchestra and an impressive cast of 36. $15 adults, $13 seniors, $11 students and children, with $2 off for Lincoln Theatre members.

Sat Aug 4th

The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies ests

u With G

Nigel Mustafa and Skablins Seafarers Memorial Park Anacortes, WA 98221 Tix: 425-303-1848 Get tickets at The Business in Anacortes or Online at www.BrownPaperTickets.com

E10 Thursday, July 19, 2012

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area July 19-26 Thursday.19

Saturday.21

THEATER

COMEDY

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: Island Stage Left, 8:30 p.m., Roche Harbor Outdoor Stage, San Juan Island. Free. Donations appreciated. Bring a blanket and dress warmly. www.islandstageleft.org. “Julius Caesar”: Shakespeare Northwest, 6:30 p.m., RexvilleBlackrock Amphitheater, 19299 Rexville Grange Road, Mount Vernon. $12. Bring lawn chairs. www.shakesnw.org.

Friday.20 COMEDY

Jim Breuer: 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $31-$40. 877-275-2448 or www.theskagit. com.

THEATER

IMPROV

THEATER

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: Shakespeare Northwest, 6:30 p.m., Rexville-Blackrock Amphitheater, 19299 Rexville Grange Road, Mount Vernon. $12. Bring lawn chairs. www.shakesnw.org. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: Island Stage Left, 8:30 p.m., Roche Harbor Outdoor Stage, San Juan Island. Free. Donations appreciated. Bring a blanket and dress warmly. www.islandstageleft.org.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: Shakespeare Northwest, 2 p.m., Rexville-Blackrock Amphitheater, 19299 Rexville Grange Road, Mount Vernon. $12. Bring lawn chairs. www.shakesnw.org.

THURSDAY.19 SATURDAY.21

Brian Nelson Band: 6 to 9 p.m., Seeds Bistro and Bar, 623 Morris St., La Conner. 360-466-3280.

“JULIUS CAESAR” Shakespeare Northwest, 6:30 p.m., Rexville-Blackrock Amphitheater, 19299 Rexville Grange Road, Mount Vernon. $12. Bring lawn chairs. www.shakesnw.org.

Br’er Rabbit: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. No cover. 360-445-3000.

WEDNESDAY.25 DEJA BLOOZE 6 to 8 p.m., Bayview Cash Store, 5603 Bayview Road, Clinton. No cover. 360-321-4145 or www.goosefoot.org.

Memes, Whiting Tennis: 10 p.m. to midnight, Redlight, 1017 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. www.red lightwineandcoffee.com.

Eric Madis: 9 p.m. to midnight, Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-588-1720.

The Ride (country): 9 p.m. to midnight, Cyndy’s Broiler, 27021 102nd Ave NW, Stanwood. No cover. 360-629-4800 or www.cyndysbroiler.com.

Jammin’ Jeff (country, rock): 8 p.m. to midnight, Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411. Mia Vermillion: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

Buckaroo Blues (country, rock): 9 p.m. to midnight, Cyndy’s Broiler, 27021 102nd Ave NW, Stanwood. No cover. 360-629-4800 or www. cyndysbroiler.com. Holmes Shea Band: 9 p.m. to midnight, Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-588-1720.

Nick Vigarino: 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3956 or www.anacortes H2O.com. Sarah Goodin, Keri Jioras: 10 p.m. to midnight, Redlight, 1017 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. www.redlightwine andcoffee.com.

SUNDAY.22

Monday-Wednesday.23-25

Gary B’s Church of the Blues (blues, classic rock): 6 to 10 p.m., Castle Tavern, 708 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. 360855-2263.

No events submitted

Thursday.26 THEATER

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: Island Stage Left, 8:30 p.m., Roche Harbor Outdoor Stage, San Juan Island. Free. Donations appreciated. Bring a blanket and dress warmly. www.islandstageleft.org.

Jammin’ Jeff (country, rock): 8 p.m. to midnight, Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Lane Fernando & The Pull And Be Damned String Band (Americana, rockabilly): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $7. 360445-3000.

Ford Giesbrecht (guitar): 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Dos Reales Taqueria & Cantina, 9730 Highway 532, Stanwood. No cover. 360-629-0822.

Desperado: An evening with the Eagles: 7 p.m., Seafarers’ Memorial Park, Anacortes. Free. 360-2933134 or www.portof anacortes.com.

SATURDAY.21

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: Island Stage Left, 8:30 p.m., Roche Harbor Outdoor Stage, San Juan Island. Free. Donations appreciated. Bring a blanket and dress warmly. www.islandstageleft.org.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: Shakespeare Northwest, 6:30 p.m., Rexville-Blackrock Amphitheater, 19299 Rexville Grange Road, Mount Vernon. $12. Bring lawn chairs. www.shakesnw.org.

FRIDAY.20

THURSDAY.19

“Julius Caesar”: Shakespeare Northwest, 6:30 p.m., RexvilleBlackrock Amphitheater, 19299 Rexville Grange Road, Mount Vernon. $12. Bring lawn chairs. www.shakesnw.org.

Sunday.22

THEATER

TUNING UP Playing at area venues July 19-26

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: Island Stage Left, 8:30 p.m., Roche Harbor Outdoor Stage, San Juan Island. Free. Donations appreciated. Bring a blanket and dress warmly. www.islandstageleft.org.

Jim Breuer: 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $31-$40. 877-275-2448 or www.theskagit. com. “All My Children”: Improv by Matt Smith, 8 p.m., The iDiOM Theater, 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham. Tickets available at the door or in advance at both Bellingham Food Co-ops. $10. 360756-0756 or www.improvplayworks. com.

Thursday, July 19, 2012 E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

THURSDAY.26 TOCATO TANGO 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. No cover. 360-445-3000.

Station House Jam with Rich Rorex, Terry Nelson and friends: 4 to 8 p.m., The Station House, 315 Morris St., La Conner. No cover. 360-466-4488.

Jenny & The TomCats: 7 p.m., Skagit River Brewery, 404 S. Third St., Mount Vernon. 360-336-2884.

Nicholas Fair: 7 p.m., Birdsview Brewing Co., 38302 Highway 20, Concrete. No cover. 360-826-3406.

The Hague: 9:30 p.m., Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-2932544.

The Daffodils, Baby Island, I Love You Avalanche: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

The Halyards: 5 to 7:30 p.m., Heart of Anacortes, 1014 Fourth St., Anacortes. $7. 360-293-3515.

MONDAY.23 Little Bill and the Blue Notes (blues): 2 p.m., Eagle Haven Winery, 8243 Sims Road, Sedro-Woolley. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. $8 cover. 360-856-6248 or www.eaglehaven winery.com.

Eli Westin Band (rock, blues): 5 p.m., Anchor Inn Tavern, 1920 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-293-9948.

Ben Starner (piano): 6:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. No Ron Bailey: 5:30 p.m., cover. 360-445-3000. Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Neil Diamond: 8 p.m., KeyArena, 305 N. Harrison St., Seattle. $82-$117. www.ticket master.com.

WEDNESDAY.25 Fidalgo Swing: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-588-1720. Deja Blooze (blues): 6 to 8 p.m., Bayview Cash Store, 5603 Bayview Road, Clinton. No cover. 360-3214145 or www.goose foot.org. Cutlass Supreme, Starskate, Slacks: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. Open Mic: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. No cover. 360445-3000.

Yogoman Burning Band (ska, reggae, funk, R&B): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-4453000. Desperado, an evening of the Eagles: 7 p.m., Riverfront Park, 1001 River Road, Sedro-Woolley. Free. 425-303-1848 or www.snohomish artistguild.org.

THURSDAY.26 Nathaniel Talbot: 6 to 9 p.m., Seeds Bistro and Bar, 623 Morris St., La Conner. 360-466-3280. Tocato Tango: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. No cover. 360-445-3000.