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Literary Stories

Drew Kampion: The Man Behind Drewslist

by Kate Poss in Community, History, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: July 12, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

Start the day with a cup of coffee and drewslist, and it could turn out much different than you expected. You might find an event or class you want to attend, snag a replacement for a lawnmower that just died, score a deal on a used car, get a new job, or find your lost cat.

Drew Kampion launched the eponymous service in 2009 with a little more than 150 names. Today, drewslist is delivered via email six days a week to more than 6,750 subscribers and has knitted together a uniquely tailored community. A former editor of surfing, windsurfing, and New Age magazines, author of eight books (with more in the works), and former publisher and founder of the Island Independent newspaper, Kampion has worked in journalism and publishing for nearly 50 years.

5 Comments Tags: classified ads, Drew Kampion, drewslist, Island Independent

Sue the Screenwriter: It Takes a Village to Launch a Book

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Humor, Literary
Posted on: June 28, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

Yes, I do love living in a small town. I love everything about a community that works together to support local artists. I also believe in keeping local money in our own communities whenever we can. So, it was an easy decision when I came to launching my next book, “Rejected Writers Take the Stage,” to have a party downtown, especially as my book is set in Langley!

It’s always exciting for authors to get their hands on the first copy of their work. I don’t know about other writers, but it always makes me cry. It is as if all those electronic manuscripts, internet emails, and flat graphic covers are a fantasy until you actually hold that work in your hand as a physical book.

No Comments Tags: launch, novel, Rejected Writers, Southlea Bay, writing

100-Word Story: Parking Karma

by Chris Spencer in Literary, More Stories, Visual Art
Posted on: May 31, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

Ed was inching through the packed P.O. parking lot when he saw it—an older woman getting into her car in the first space. “A-hah!” Ed put on his blinker and glared protectively at other cruising cars searching for open spots.

“Come on lady. What are you doing? Your makeup? Nails? Napping? Move it!” he groused. Finally, she oozed her Cadillac out in fits and starts. Ed gunned into the coveted, prime space. Two steps from his car he saw where he was and realized he needed to go to the Dog House—way on the far side of town.

4 Comments Tags: 100-word stories, Dog House

In Search of Truth and Beauty: At Home Among the Trees

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary, Nature
Posted on: May 17, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

I have a confession to make. I am a dendrophile, defined as one who loves trees and forests, mine is a profoundly reverential and spiritual love and hence a completely uplifting relationship. You may also call me a tree hugger.

One of my earliest memories is of the giant willow in the front yard of my grandparent’s home. The willow’s branches climbed upwards before arching and curving downward to reach all the way to the ground. I parted the curtains of its supple branches and spent most of my day inside this willow house. I recall sitting very still and watching the green leaves as they waved and danced with the particles of sunlight. I was completely sheltered without being separated from the beautiful world of “outside.” I was inside the realm of the outside and it was magical!

2 Comments Tags: Hermann Hesse, Mary Oliver, Peter Wohlleben, trees

Poetry Reading by Daniel Edward Moore

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: May 12, 2017 10:51 am - Permalink

On May 21 at 2 p.m., the Sno-Isle Library, Coupeville branch will feature poet Daniel Edward Moore reading from his new book, “Confessions Of A Pentecostal Buddhist.” He will also be reading work from his chapbook “Farewell Paradise Empire,” which includes poems about life on Whidbey Island.

No Comments

Magically Real | How About a Little List?

by Stephanie Barbé Hammer in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: May 10, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

Friends, I just finished taking a wonderful nonfiction writing class in Coupeville with my former Northwest Institute of Literary Arts teacher, essayist Ana Maria Spagna, and her friend, the amazing novelist Laura Pritchett. They were big on having us make lists, then asking us to use them creatively.

Lists can be a great way to clean out your brain. You dump the data in those numbered rows, and then you have it all there in front of you for safe keeping.

No Comments Tags: Ana Maria Spagna, creative writing, Laura Pritchett, lists

Minding the Sky: Down the Rabbit Hole

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: May 3, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

I went to Kansas City on an exploration of possibilities, triggered by a conversation I had the last time I was there. At that time, I met up with one-half of the dynamic duo who created what was reputed to be the best children’s bookstore in the Midwest, if not the country, and possibly the world. The Reading Reptile, which Pete Cowdin and Deb Pettid started more than twenty-five years ago, was a hub for creative engagement in the world of children’s literature — for both readers and authors, who would appear there on a regular basis. The bookstore closed more than a year ago, and the founders are pursuing a new vision: It’s a big one.

Their idea is to create a fully immersive museum dedicated to literature for young people — and by fully immersive, they mean a life-size, walk-through of the book itself. Their organization, The Rabbit Hole, is hoping to have a building soon in which to build their dream: the world’s first Explor-a-storium — and a national center for the children’s book.

No Comments Tags: Brian Selznick, children's literature, Deb Pettid, Javaka Steptoe, John Bemelmans Marciano, Jon Scieszka, Kansas City, Nina Crews, Pete Cowdin, Reading Reptile, Shane Evans, Sophie Blackall, The Rabbit Hole

A Story in 100 Words: Ferryboat Rush

by Chris Spencer in Literary, More Stories, Visual Art
Posted on: April 26, 2017 7:00 pm - Permalink

“Please Lord, let me catch this boat.”

Speeding down to the ferry, I pray everyone ahead of me has ferry passes.

“Please, please!”

The Oldsmobile in front of me stops just past the booth, then backs up three feet. Its window cranks down.

“How much?” she asks.

“$8.65.”

“My purse is in the trunk. I’ll get it.”

“Oh, God no,” I wail.

She hands the attendant money. A quarter rolls under the car.

“Sorry. I’ve got another under the seat.” She exits again.

“No, no!” I howl, and tearfully bang my head on the steering column.

Then my airbag inflates.

4 Comments Tags: catching the ferry, waiting in ferry line, Washington State Ferries

Meet the Author of ‘Writer, Sailor, Soldier, Spy’

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: April 26, 2017 12:38 pm - Permalink

Was Ernest Hemingway a Soviet spy? Meet the author of ” Writer, Sailor, Soldier, Spy: Ernest Hemingway’s Secret Adventures, 1935-1961″ and find out. This free event takes place at 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 30 at Music for the Eyes, which is located at 314 First Street in Langley. Moonraker Books and Music for the […]

No Comments

A Story in 100 Words: Dating at the Prima Bistro

by Chris Spencer in Literary, More Stories, Visual Art
Posted on: April 12, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

“Excuse me—I must take this call.” My dinner date answers her cellphone and goes to the bar to talk. At the restaurant table next to me, a man leaves to do the same thing. I glance at the abandoned woman at the adjacent table and shrug. “It’s our first date.”

“Mine, too. So much for intimate get-to-know-you conversation,” she responds.

Annoyed, I get up and put on my coat. “I think I’ll go across the street to Village Pizzeria.” I take two steps, turn, and ask, “Like to join me?”

“Sure. We can both text them where we went.”

One Comment Tags: dating, Prima Bistro, Village Pizzeria

In Search of Truth and Beauty | The Birthing of Spring

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary, Nature
Posted on: March 22, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

It’s hard not to be hopeful in spring. It feels like the season where hope is born. Spring is the season of such continual change. It seems the least static of all the seasons. It is easier to stay truly present, watching new lives gaze at the world with force and fascination. Witnessing this presence allows us to reignite the places in ourselves that may have grown stagnant, frozen, or hidden away in the hibernating nature of winter.

What bulbs of color and bloom lie within our psyches ready to break through onto the spring field? Let’s go easy on ourselves in these beginning days of spring. Rather than rushing too hastily forward, let’s take our time to nourish these new shoots. Spring rain can be the perfect musical accompaniment for reading, writing poetry, or simply gazing out the window.

2 Comments Tags: Poetry, seasons, spring, winter

Magically Real | Paradise No (but What About Some Utopia?)

by Stephanie Barbé Hammer in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: March 15, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

Friends – a lot of Whidbey denizens call this place “paradise.”

“Welcome to paradise,” my new neighbors (at the time) told us, and “life in paradise” is something that Coupeville acquaintances say to me all the time (of course Coupeville probably IS very close to being paradise, but I digress).

I grimace a little bit whenever I hear this well-meaning phrase. Probably because I am an ex-professor, and so I have to deconstruct and analyze everything.

One Comment Tags: Candide, Eden, paradise, Thomas More, Utopia, Voltaire

Poet Laureate Tod Marshall Chooses Poet Daniel Edward Moore for New Anthology

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: March 14, 2017 11:30 am - Permalink

Washington State Poet Laureate Tod Marshall has chosen Oak Harbor poet Daniel Edward Moore’s poem, “A Ghost Minority,” which is about Coupeville, to be in the new “Washington 129” poetry anthology representing the best poetry in Washington State to honor its 129-year history. It will be released at a reading at the state capitol in […]

No Comments

Sue the Screenwriter || Calling All Storytellers

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: March 1, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

As a comedy writer, most of the time I don’t give much thought to the loftier call of storytelling. Most of my writing life is taken up with all the fundamental moving parts of crafting the story itself. However, it has really struck me over the last few months that there is also value in storytelling as a balm that holds great significance in our everyday lives.

When Toni Morrison felt like many of us do now, a friend told her. “This is precisely the time when artists go to work. There is no time for despair, no place for self-pity, no need for silence, no room for fear. We speak, we write, we do language. That is how civilizations heal.”

3 Comments Tags: " The Clyde Theatre, Hidden Figures, La La Land, Moonlight, storytelling, Toni Morrison

In Search of Truth and Beauty || Yes We Can!

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 25, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

Rise and Dream a better Dream … for the earth and all her people

Support and nurture inclusion,
Stand strong in our convictions
Of equality and choice.
Lead with courage and compassion,
Loving ourselves enough to stay
Awake and fearless.

3 Comments Tags: Hafiz, Joni Takanikos, Poetry

Magically Real || How About a Poem?

by Stephanie Barbé Hammer in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 18, 2017 6:00 pm - Permalink

Friends – I was talking to my t’ai chi teacher Lynne last week, and she told me that she usually didn’t “like” poetry, but she liked mine because I wrote about things like dishwashers.

I hear this all the time. Not the dishwasher part. I mean the part where people say they “don’t like poetry.” They tend to make this statement in an ashamed and embarrassed way (Lynne didn’t, but then, you have to remember that she is very Zen and enlightened). When most folks make this confession, they say it like they might be admitting “I don’t like broccoli,” meaning “I know it’s good for me, and it’s wrong for me not to like it, but it doesn’t taste good!”

3 Comments Tags: Claude McKay, Poetry, Stephanie Barbe' Hammer, Walt Whitman

Sue the Screenwriter || Autumn and Authors

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary, Travel
Posted on: November 9, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

I decided it was time for a well-earned rest, and what my worn-out brain needed was color and literacy. Joining a good friend of mine, Eric Mulholland, on the East Coast, we decided to go on a road trip, visit some of my favorite authors’ homes, and see the leaves change color along the way.

No Comments Tags: architecture, Edith Wharton, Emily Dickinson, Eric Mulholland, homes of authors, Louisa May Alcott

Serving in Silence: New Edition of Local Veteran’s Book Published

by Marian Blue in Feature, History, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: November 9, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

If you’re not sure how to commemorate Veteran’s Day this week, try reading a book, especially one that demonstrates that following your principles is often more productive than following your plans. One such book, originally published in 1995, has a new 2016 edition with added pictures and a new epilogue: “Serving In Silence” by Colonel Margarethe (Grethe) Cammermeyer, Ph.D., who lives in Langley.

One Comment Tags: Defense of Marriage Act, don't ask don't tell, gay rights, Margarethe (Grethe) Cammermeyer, Serving in Silence, veterans, Whidbey writers

Play that Song Again || Like It Was Written In My Soul

by Erik Christensen in Blogs, Literary, Music
Posted on: November 2, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

Great year. Terrible year. A year that killed off several close friends and a handful of musical heroes. (Prince, David Bowie, Guy Clark…the list goes on.) It’s also the year a skinny songwriter kid from Hibbing, Minnesota won the Nobel Prize. So let’s go positive and celebrate with a stack of musical books that I’ve read in the last year. Pull up a chair, pour a glass of your favorite beverage, and enjoy my 2016 Top Five Reading List.

No Comments Tags: book review, Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Erik Christensen, Leonard Cohen, Patti Smith, The Replacements

These Are Stories You Have Time For

by Guest Contributor in Community, Feature, Humor, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: November 2, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

For the past decade, Chris Spencer has encouraged local writers to keep it short and submit 100-word stories (exactly 100 words), for a “Short Story Smash” at WICA. Spencer, who has published two books of 100-word stories, says, “I like the constriction of working in a limited space. It helps with editing skills, concise sentence construction, […]

No Comments Tags: 100-word stories, Chris Spencer, Dianna MacLoed, Jim Milne, Paul Goldfinger, short stories, Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Whidbey writers

Rock Bottom Line || Kathy Baxter’s Vision Becomes Historic Reality

by Harry Anderson in Blogs, Community, History, Literary
Posted on: October 26, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

My friend Kathy Baxter is a very spiritual person. In fact, she made her living until recently as a spiritual coach, helping people overcome physical and emotional issues to find their own wisdom and truth with a variety of healing modalities.

One Comment Tags: Coupeville, Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Ebey's Prairie, Restoration, rock bottom line, Whidbey Island

Sue’s Farewell: So Is This Really Goodbye?

by Sue Taves in Community, History, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: October 26, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

Somewhere along the line, Whidbey Life Magazine became a professional publication that pays writers and editors, sells advertising, has a readership, makes money, and all that stuff. That wasn’t how it started. I thought of WLM as my love letter to Whidbey Island. Well, it turns out that there are a lot of us who are in love with living here.

25 Comments Tags: founder, photography, Sue Taves, WLM, WLM history

Postcards From Whidbey Island: Friends Of Clinton Library Spell S-U-C-C-E-S-S

by Dianna MacLeod in Community, Humor, Literary, More Stories, Postcards from Whidbey Island, Spotlight
Posted on: October 12, 2016 7:00 pm - Permalink

When the Friends of Clinton Library decided to hold a fundraiser, they settled on the idea of a spellathon–and then set about finding folks who would be willing to form teams, don costumes, invent names for themselves, and then spend Saturday evening, Oct. 1, testing their knowledge of words.

No Comments Tags: Clinton, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island

Minding the Sky || Gleaning the Chutney of Life

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Food, Gardens, Humor, Literary, Nature
Posted on: October 12, 2016 7:00 pm - Permalink

You probably didn’t notice, but I am nearly a month late with this posting. I was last due on Sept. 12 at which time I was out of body, in another part of my mind. It was my birthday and I was completely absorbed in one and only one activity: completing the edit on my novel.

No Comments Tags: Judith Walcutt, Minding the Sky, Whidbey blogs, Whidbey writers, WLM blogger

Magically Real || It’s all happening at the Coupeville Dump

by Stephanie Barbé Hammer in Blogs, Community, Humor, Literary
Posted on: September 21, 2016 5:00 pm - Permalink

Friends: now that I live on an island, I find myself thinking about where things come from. Like electricity. And where things go. Like our garbage.

One Comment Tags: art, Coupeville, Whidbey Island

The Power of Story—a remedy and solution—at South Tilth on Sept. 25

by Art News in Community, Community News, Festivals, Health & Fitness, Literary, Music, Nature, What's Happening
Posted on: September 21, 2016 1:43 pm - Permalink

Mokihana Calizar, a Hawaiian storyteller, blogger and writer of medicine stories will appear at the South Whidbey Tilth Farmers’ Market on Sunday, Sept. 25 starting at 11:30 a.m.

No Comments

Sue the Screenwriter || Hi Ho, Hi Ho—It’s Off the Island I Go!

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Humor, Literary, Travel
Posted on: September 7, 2016 9:00 pm - Permalink

So I have some exciting news to share. My second book in my “Rejected Writers’ Book Club” series has just been acquired by Lake Union Publishing.

2 Comments Tags: Seattle, Sue the Screenwriter, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Play that Song Again || Stealing from real life: If you hit your ball into my yard, you ain’t getting it back

by Erik Christensen in Blogs, Humor, Literary, Music
Posted on: August 31, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

Today we talk about theft. Stealing. Purloined ideas and stories.

Elvis Costello has said, “every artist is a magpie and a thief.” I believe that statement, and there have been several well-known court cases about copyright infringement.

No Comments Tags: music, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Sirithiri || ‘God’s Hospital’

by Siri Bardarson in Blogs, Community, Literary, Nature
Posted on: August 24, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

My summer began with tears.

I cried when I accidentally drove over my favorite snake with the ride-around mower and hacked her into three bloody pieces. I have the best garter snakes at my house and she was the biggest of them all! The one with bright blue stripes and a girth the diameter of a napkin wring. Did you know that garter snakes live to be ten years old? I wept for the rest of the afternoon and woke up crying the next morning.

15 Comments Tags: sirithiri, WLM blogs

Dianna MacLeod || ‘Whidbey Writes’ August 2016

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: August 3, 2016 8:00 pm - Permalink

The train that carried me clear across my native land—this country of plains and rivers, silver sagebrush and purple peaks—has deposited me here, at the ends of the earth. I imagined there would be a cliff.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

Stefanie Freele || ‘Whidbey Writes’ July 2016

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: July 6, 2016 7:21 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Stefanie Freele, our “Whidbey Writes” featured writer for July. We’re pleased to be able to share her poem, “Listen, Boy Of Belligerence,” with you.

No Comments Tags: Poetry, Whidbey Writes

Sue the Screenwriter || Outliners and Outlawers, Please Start Your Engines!

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: July 6, 2016 7:20 pm - Permalink

Oh, the good old summertime. The bees are buzzing, the birds are chirping and the cotton is high. Apparently—I definitely have a stack of washing, that’s for sure.

No Comments Tags: Suzanne Kelman, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

You’re invited to the annual Hedgebrook Open House on Sept. 10

by Art News in Celebrate Writing, Community, Community News, Literary
Posted on: July 6, 2016 11:56 am - Permalink

The annual Hedgebrook Open House will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept.10 at Hedgebrook Retreat, 2197 Millman Road in Langley.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey artists, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Whidbey Island Writers Association, Whidbey writers

‘Easy Access to All Things Writing’ is goal of new Whidbey Writers Network (WWN)

by Art News in Community, Community News, Literary
Posted on: June 29, 2016 4:48 pm - Permalink

In the last month more than 100 local writers have signed up with the new Whidbey Writers Network (WWN). The group’s mission is to gather and disseminate information on resources that might be useful for writers living on Whidbey. WWN’s next goal is the development of an automated, state-of-the-art website, to be funded by donation. All […]

One Comment

Pigment, Perspectives and Pandas || Busy, Busy, Busy

by Anne Belov in Blogs, Humor, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: June 15, 2016 12:13 pm - Permalink

You hear it everywhere you go: I’m so busy; I’m too busy; my children have a packed schedule; Lunch? Let me look at my calendar… I think I have a Tuesday next August. Does that work for you?

No Comments Tags: Anne Belov, Rob Schouten Gallery, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers, WLM, WLM blogs

Samuel C. Walker || ‘Whidbey Writes’ June 2016

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: June 1, 2016 5:24 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Samuel C. Walker, our “Whidbey Writes” featured writer for June. We’re pleased to be able to share his poem, “Strings,” with you.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Island, Whidbey Writes

From the Ashes of WIWA: The Whidbey Writers’ Network Hosts its First Event on June 8

by Guest Contributor in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: June 1, 2016 5:00 pm - Permalink

“We are homeless, leaderless and penniless,” said Dot Read, a longtime supporter and former chairperson of the recently defunct Whidbey Island Writers’ Association.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey Island Writers Association, Whidbey writers

Minding the Sky || In the Vortext of Women’s Voices

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: May 25, 2016 7:00 pm - Permalink

May 19, 2016 is the day that Vortext begins its process this year, unfurling and finding its way into being, like any piece of writing—there is a place where it must begin and this is it.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Magically Real || Make yourself at home. Or don’t.

by Stephanie Barbé Hammer in Blogs, Community, Literary
Posted on: May 18, 2016 6:48 pm - Permalink

It’s an interesting expression isn’t it? “Make yourself at home” is an invitation, but it’s also a sort of command.

2 Comments

Andrea Hurst || ‘Whidbey Writes’ May 2016

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: May 4, 2016 4:00 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Andrea Hurst, our “Whidbey Writes” featured writer for May. We’re pleased to be able to share her poem, “A Mouse in Flannel,” with you.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

The Bard and the Library

by Kate Poss in Feature, Festivals, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: May 3, 2016 2:30 pm - Permalink

“Come, and take choice of all my library, and so beguile thy sorrow,” said William Shakespeare in Titus Andronicus.

No Comments Tags: festival, Langley, Theater

Book Release Party for Gina Marie Mammano on April 29

by Art News in Community, Community News, Literary
Posted on: April 25, 2016 11:27 pm - Permalink

April 25, 2016 All are welcome to join us on Arbor Day, from 6-8 p.m., on Friday, April 29 for some nature and “place” related interactions and activities with the author, a book signing, a little bit of music! Help us celebrate the book launch of local author Gina Marie Mammano’s just released title: “Camino […]

No Comments

Island-Wide Student Art Contest Depicts a Ravaged Planet

by Russell Clepper in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories, Visual Art
Posted on: April 25, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

Earth Day: Friday, April 22, much of the world will celebrate the planet that is our home. Here on Whidbey Island, the Global Climate Change Art Contest debuts as yet one more facet in this worldwide effort to recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy environment for all life on Earth.

No Comments Tags: Bayview Cash Store art show, Whidbey artists, Whidbey Island

Marie Hartung || ‘Whidbey Writes’ April 2016

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: April 6, 2016 12:45 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Marie Hartung, our “Whidbey Writes” featured writer for April. We’re pleased to be able to share her work, “Return,” with you.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

Start cooking for ‘South Whidbey Edible Book Festival’ on Saturday, April 2

by Art News in Community News, Culinary, Literary
Posted on: March 23, 2016 12:39 pm - Permalink

March 23, 2016 A consumable art exhibition—the fourth annual South Whidbey Edible Book Festival—returns from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 2 at Bayview Community Hall, 5642 Bayview Rd Hall, off Hwy. 525. This tasty FUNdraiser is open to everyone and free to attend. Create an “Edible Book,” inspired by a graphic novel or […]

No Comments

In Search of Truth and Beauty || Memories of the Green Realm, My Romance with Spring

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: March 18, 2016 3:59 pm - Permalink

I am hopelessly in love with a land far, far away. My heart conjures this distant landscape most readily in the spring. It was March of 2011 when I met Ireland for the first time.

No Comments Tags: Joni Takanikos, Rob Schouten Gallery, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Call for creative writing submissions for “Whidbey Writes” by March 20

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: March 16, 2016 3:01 am - Permalink

March 2, 2016 Whidbey Writes encourages writers with a Whidbey connection to submit short fiction and poetry for publication in the online version of Whidbey Life Magazine. Selected submissions are published monthly online and twice a year in the print issues of Whidbey Life Magazine. The magazine’s editors will select a submission, based on its popularity […]

No Comments

‘Living your Life in a Larger Story’ on March 12

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: March 9, 2016 12:00 pm - Permalink

March 2, 2016 Living Your Life in a Larger Story: A StoryDome Workshop is scheduled for Saturday, March 12 from 9 to 5 p.m. at The StoryDome Space, Ken’s Korner This workshop is designed to cultivate personal creativity, compassion, and community by deepening our relationships with ourselves, each other, and the natural world. We will integrate sacred ceremony, visual storytelling and a […]

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Poet Daniel Moore featured on Columbia Journal Of Arts and Literature from March 7–14

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: March 8, 2016 12:44 pm - Permalink

March 2, 2016 Local Coupeville poet, Daniel Moore, will be the featured poet on the Columbia Journal Of Arts and Literature website from March 7 through March 14. Five of Moore’s poems, which are part of his manuscript, “Waxing The Dents,” were selected.  http://columbiajournal.org

No Comments

Hedgebrook opens registration for their first Summer Salon on June 18

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: March 8, 2016 12:17 pm - Permalink

March 9, 2016 Register now for Hedgebrook’s first Summer Salon, to be held Saturday, June 18 at our Whidbey retreat! Take workshops in the cottages, led by Mary Anne Carter, Sarah Galvin, Nicole Hardy, Elizabeth Heffron, Sonora Jha, Donna Miscolta and Elissa Washuta. Breakfast, lunch and a wine and cheese reception are all included in the […]

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Join Women Writers at Hedgebrook’s VORTEXT at Whidbey Institute; register now!

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: March 8, 2016 12:13 pm - Permalink

March 9, 2016 VORTEXT is Hedgebrook’s weekend salon at the famed Whidbey Institute, led by renowned women writers. This year, VORTEXT will take place on Friday, May 20 through Sunday, May 22. The program, now in its fifth year, gives writers the opportunity to connect in diverse and powerful small-group workshops. Writers also enjoy dynamic keynotes and discussions […]

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‘South Whidbey Edible Book Festival’ returns on April 2

by Art News in Community, Community News, Literary
Posted on: March 8, 2016 12:11 pm - Permalink

March 9, 2016 A consumable art exhibition—the fourth annual South Whidbey Edible Book Festival returns from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 2 at Bayview Community Hall. This tasty FUNdraiser is open to everyone and free to attend. Donations are encouraged and will benefit the South Whidbey Parks and Aquatics Foundation. This year, the Foundation […]

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Heather Anderson || ‘Whidbey Writes’ March 2016

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: March 2, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Heather Anderson, our Whidbey Writes featured writer for March.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

Sue the Screenwriter || Here She Blows!!! … again!

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Feature, Humor, Literary
Posted on: March 2, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

So here it is—the grand push, the leap over the edge, the big kahuna. We are on the countdown as my book “The Rejected Writers’ Book Club” goes out into the world…again!

2 Comments Tags: Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Whidbey Island book clubs share top reads from 2015

by Art News in Feature, Literary, More Stories, Second Chance
Posted on: February 17, 2016 4:00 pm - Permalink

Some 125 book lovers, representing 33 book clubs from Oak Harbor to Clinton, participated in the annual “All-Island Book Clubs Event” last Thursday at the Holmes Harbor Rod and Gun Club.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey events, WLM

Stephanie Barbé Hammer || ‘Whidbey Writes’ February 2016

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: February 3, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Stephanie Barbé Hammer, our “Whidbey Writes” featured writer for February.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

Worried About Running out of Good Reads? Join a Book Club and Find Your Niche on Feb. 11

by Kate Poss in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: January 27, 2016 6:00 pm - Permalink

I have abibliophobia and am not ashamed to admit it. “Abibliophobia” is the fear of not having a good book to read.

2 Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey writers

Island Book Clubs to gather Thursday, Feb. 11

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: January 13, 2016 1:17 pm - Permalink

Jan. 13, 2016 Whidbey Life Magazine will be the host and beneficiary of this year’s All Island Book Clubs Gathering, set from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 11 at the Holmes Harbor Rod and Gun Club on Brooks Hill Road in Langley. All Book Club leaders who have not already received notice should contact Donna Hood […]

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Mureall Hébert || ‘Whidbey Writes’ January 2016

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: January 6, 2016 7:22 pm - Permalink

This month we are pleased to introduce Mureall Hébert and her short fiction selection “Welcome to the Party.”

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

Minding the Sky || Making Resolutions that Matter

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 5, 2016 12:43 am - Permalink

Whew! We did it! Made it through the eye of the needle of the darkest day, found our way through that tiny door at the bottom of the old year and discovered a lightening sky awaiting us in the morning frost of the new.

No Comments Tags: WLM, WLM blogs

Sue the Screenwriter || Be creative—but don’t forget your hard hat: Five lessons I learned from Hedgebrook

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: December 30, 2015 12:14 am - Permalink

I had a very wonderful experience when I was invited to Hedgebrook by the amazing staff to teach. In return, I had the use of a cottage in the woods with all my meals prepared for six days.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Lumens || Like a Tree in the Earth

by Sharon Betcher in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories, Second Chance
Posted on: December 16, 2015 4:50 pm - Permalink

Religions have been preoccupied with trees as symbols, from the Edenic tree of life, the focus of much Western art, to the evergreen of Christmas. But, given our assumption of human exceptionalism over nature’s objects, hardly does one expect to turn to a tree itself to find solace.

Yet it was to a tree that Dr. Susan Scott, Jungian psychotherapist, intuitively turned in her own bleakest hour. Then again, if spirituality might be described as “communion with the life-force,” as Scott puts it, seeking the counsel of the natural world, may be, well, natural.

No Comments Tags: photography, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

Celebrate Whidbey Island’s Literary Community at ‘Authors Next Door’ Series at Langley Library on Dec. 17

by Lara Dunning in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: December 9, 2015 4:34 pm - Permalink

Are you a lover of the written word? Do you dream about writing a novel? Do you want to ask your favorite author about a gut-wrenching plot twist? Luck is on your side. Sno-Isle Libraries ‘Author Next Door’ series from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17 at the Langley Library gives you a chance to ask seven Whidbey Island authors about their writing process and literary works.

No Comments Tags: Langley Library, literary, Whidbey writers

Soul Touch Coloring Journals are now available

by Art News in Community, Community News, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: December 4, 2015 2:45 pm - Permalink

Deborah Koff-Chapin, creator of SoulCards, announces the release of five books of her Touch Drawings for you to enhance with your own color, words and inspiration. They are riding the wave of interest in coloring books for mindfulness, art therapy, and stress relief, but go to a new level of depth and creative expression. Each […]

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Elizabeth Patterson || Whidbey Writes December 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: December 2, 2015 8:08 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Elizabeth Patterson, our “Whidbey Writes” featured writer for December. We’re pleased to be able to share her work of short fiction with you.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Island Writers Association, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

Whidbey Writers group sponsors ‘Books for Christmas’ event on Dec. 13

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: December 2, 2015 2:57 pm - Permalink

Dec. 2, 2015 Whidbey authors are invited to participate in the Whidbey Writers Group Books for Christmas sale. The sale will be from 2 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Coupeville Recreation Hall (901 NW Alexander St., Coupeville). Two authors will share a table and there is a 10% of sales fee […]

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The Movies and the Catholic Sex-Abuse Scandal: A Conversation with Robby Robinson on Dec. 6

by Art News in Community News, Film, Literary
Posted on: December 1, 2015 3:06 pm - Permalink

Dec. 2, 2015 Please join us on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. for a conversation between WICA board member Robert W. Merry and Walter (Robby) Robinson, longtime reporter and editor for the Boston Globe, whose assignments have included national political reporter, White House correspondent, Middle East correspondent, and editor of the Globe’s “Spotlight” team, […]

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Nancy Pearl Shares her Favorite Books for 2015 with Whidbey Bibliophiles

by Kate Poss in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: November 11, 2015 7:45 pm - Permalink

America’s most beloved librarian and author of “Book Lust” held a rapt audience in the palm of her hand in Langley last week. Nancy Pearl returned to the WICA for the 18th year in a row, courtesy of the Friends of the Langley Library.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey Island Center for the Arts

Meet the ‘Author Next Door’ at Freeland and Oak Harbor Libraries on Nov. 14 and 16

by Kate Poss in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: November 11, 2015 4:53 am - Permalink

It is likely that one of your neighbors is an author. During the dark days of November, why not step out and head to your local library to learn who that author may be.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey artists, Whidbey events, Whidbey writers

Sno-Isle Libraries programs celebrate ‘Authors Next Door’ in November and December

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: November 4, 2015 12:46 pm - Permalink

Nov. 4, 2015 For a second year, a series of Sno-Isle Libraries programs will celebrate reading and community while learning more about the published authors who live among us. Each free event will have an interactive panel of authors. Their work, collectively, covers a variety of subjects written for people of all ages, from children’s […]

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The Short Stories were a SMASH

by Guest Contributor in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: November 4, 2015 11:59 am - Permalink

Nov. 4, 2015 Chris Spencer’s “Ninth 100 Word Short Story Smash” was held  on Wednesday, Oct. 28 in Zech Hall at WICA with a “rapt audience” of observers, onlookers and contestants cheering the “rhetoricians” who elucidated the submitted short stories, using their sublime elocution and no deep-rooted fear of public speaking. The winners, and their stories, were: First Place: “Doubt” […]

No Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey writers

Claire Gebben || Whidbey Writes November 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: November 3, 2015 7:38 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Claire Gebben, our Whidbey Writes featured writer for November. We’re pleased to be able to share her work of short fiction with you.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

WICA presents Chris Spencer’s Short Story Smash

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: October 25, 2015 6:21 pm - Permalink

Oct. 25, 2015 WICA is proud to present local author and personality Chris Spencer’s return for the Ninth 100 Word Short Story Smash at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28. Write your heart out, send it in and compete for fame, glory and a little bit of cash in this popular ode to concise editing! Participants […]

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photo by Morgan

The New Whidbey Life Magazine Is Here!

by Sue Taves in Community, Culinary, Feature, History, Literary, More Stories, Music, Photo essay, Theater and Dance, Visual Art
Posted on: October 14, 2015 11:26 am - Permalink

Whidbey Life Magazine’s Fall/Winter print issue captures the magic of life on Whidbey Island. This issue highlights the way our landscape—farms, valleys, views, vistas—inspires and influences Whidbey Islanders. Musicians, painters, writers, actors, all of us seem to draw something from the sights, sounds and scents of Whidbey.

No Comments Tags: art, Island food and farms, painting, photography, Theater, Whidbey artists, Whidbey Island, Whidbey Life Magazine, Whidbey music, WLM

Postcards From Whidbey Island || The Radical Hospitality of Hedgebrook

by Dianna MacLeod in Literary, More Stories, Postcards from Whidbey Island
Posted on: October 7, 2015 3:16 pm - Permalink

Hedgebrook, a writing retreat for women located on the south end of Whidbey Island, held its annual open house on a recent Saturday. The event pleases everybody…

No Comments Tags: Hedgebrook, Theater, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

Pigment, Perspectives and Pandas || We’re Gonna Have a Resolution

by Anne Belov in Blogs, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: October 7, 2015 9:27 am - Permalink

Is it a bad thing to admit that I was just reminded that I had a post due and that it was due…um…tonight? Do I need to make some Fall Resolutions to recommit to my previously organized ways?

No Comments Tags: Anne Belov, art, Rob Schouten Gallery, Whidbey artists

Only 12 Spots Remain for the Hedgebrook Winter Salon!

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: October 7, 2015 9:26 am - Permalink

Oct. 7, 2015 Registration is now open for the Hedgebrook Winter Salon, to be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5. Join us for a day of writing workshops in the cottages, delicious food and memorable connections with fellow women writers. Workshops include: • Beyond the Prompt: Finding Inspiring Subjects and […]

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Authors in ‘Thrills & Chills’ Speaker Series bring shivers to Sno-Isle Libraries

by Sean Fletcher in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: October 7, 2015 9:17 am - Permalink

An autumn chill is in the air once again and people everywhere know what time it is—time for scary movies, stuffing ourselves with sweets and for Starbucks to dust off that never-spoiled bottle of Pumpkin Spice they keep in the backroom year-round.

No Comments Tags: Coupeville, OakHarbor, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

Robin Reynolds Barre || Whidbey Writes, October 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: October 7, 2015 9:14 am - Permalink

Congratulations to Robin Reynolds Barre, our Whidbey Writes featured writer for October. We’re pleased to be able to share her poem with you.

No Comments Tags: Northwest Institute of Literary Arts, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

LUMENS || Learning to Savor

by Sharon Betcher in Literary, More Stories, Second Chance
Posted on: September 30, 2015 7:00 pm - Permalink

While sociologists of religion speak of the Pacific Northwest as the epitome of “the none zone” (where the majority of persons register no official religious preference on a census), most residents know Whidbey Island to home contemplatives, mystics, naturalists and activists of many religio-spiritual strains with a paradisal dream of living intimate reciprocity with all beings.

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We’d Like to Thank the Academy: Susannah Rose Woods and Suzanne Kelman Advance to the Final Round of the Nicholl Fellowships

by Katie Woodzick in Feature, Literary, More Stories, Spotlight
Posted on: September 23, 2015 6:07 pm - Permalink

Susannah Rose Woods and Suzanne Kelman first met through creative endeavors at Whidbey Children’s Theater. Kelman had just finished work on Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Woods was about to begin directing productions of Into the Woods.

3 Comments Tags: Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting, Susannah Rose Woods, Suzanne Kelman, Whidbey writers

In Search Of Truth and Beauty || Wandering the Fields of Meditation

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Community, Literary
Posted on: September 16, 2015 11:03 am - Permalink

I have practiced meditation since I was a teenager. It has anchored me while providing a lift to my life and, at times, sheer transcendence.

3 Comments Tags: Joni Takanikos, Meditation, WLM blogs

Hedgebrook Open House is Saturday, September 26

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: September 9, 2015 5:45 pm - Permalink

August 26, 2015 Hedgebrook invites the public to visit their Whidbey Island retreat for writers on the afternoon of Saturday, September 26th from 1-4pm. Wander the forest paths, tour the gardens, listen to live marimba music, sample tasty refreshments from Hedgebrook’s kitchen, and breathe the fresh island air. Families and children warmly welcomed; please leave […]

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Cameron Castle || Whidbey Writes Sept. 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: September 2, 2015 2:21 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Cameron Castle, our Whidbey Writes featured writer for September. We’re pleased to be able to share his work of short fiction with you.

No Comments Tags: NILA, Northwest Institute of Literary Arts, Whidbey Island Writers Association, Whidbey writers

Six Reasons You Can’t Tell Your Story—and Why Each Is Wrong

by Guest Contributor in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: September 2, 2015 1:33 pm - Permalink

There will always be a reason not to tell your story. I had hundreds myself, but I decided to ignore them and, as a result, my difficult story has just been published by She Writes Press.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey writers

Non-fiction essay-writing contest announced

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: August 26, 2015 6:24 pm - Permalink

August 26, 2015 “Transform Your Boundaries” is sponsoring a non-fiction essay-writing contest. The link to enter is on the website www.TransformYourBoundaries.com at the very top of the home page. We are looking for an essay about an experience when the writer learned a powerful lesson about boundaries. Nearly every story ever told involves boundaries. It […]

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Sue the Screenwriter || Memoirs from the Ledge of ‘Oh, how in the Heck did I Get here’

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: August 26, 2015 5:42 pm - Permalink

Many of us who are ‘creatives’ know the challenge it can be to make a living doing what we love, which is, of course, making art. Some artists take on jobs outside their home to subsidize their art “habit.” I take on multiple writing and film producing assignments in the hope that one of my ships will come happily sailing home.

3 Comments Tags: Sue the Screenwriter, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Jeremiah O’Hagan || Whidbey Writes August 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: August 5, 2015 8:57 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Jeremiah O’Hagan, our Whidbey Writes featured writer for August. We’re pleased to be able to share his work of poetry with you.

One Comment Tags: Northwest Institute of Literary Arts, Whidbey writers

Sirithiri || “Monstro”

by Siri Bardarson in Blogs, Culinary, Literary
Posted on: August 5, 2015 9:55 am - Permalink

On one of our recent sunny days, I sped down the highway around the end of Penn Cove and saw many cars parked at the beach. I had seen a notice online for a “Digging for Dinner” class, a how-to on clam habitat, limits and licensing. I guessed that this was it, people learning about the rich shellfish bounty of our wonderful Puget Sound.

This made me think of Monstro.

One Comment Tags: culinary, Island food and farms, sirithiri, WLM blogs

Penn Cove Orca Capture anniversary Commemoration scheduled for Aug. 8

by Art News in Community, Community News, Literary, Music
Posted on: August 4, 2015 9:22 am - Permalink

August 4, 2015 Over 100 orcas were herded into Penn Cove 45 years ago . The young ones were netted and hauled onto trucks for theme parks worldwide. All but one had died by 1987 but, incredibly, she is still alive. They call her Lolita. August, 2015, marks the 45th anniversary of Lolita’s capture from […]

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Chris Spencer || ‘Whidbey Writes’ July 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: July 15, 2015 7:26 am - Permalink

July 15, 2015 Each month we’ve published a Whidbey Writes writer. After six months we interrupted “Whidbey Writes” to bring you the winners of the Celebrate Writing Contest, featuring young writers (not just those who are young-at-heart). Throughout the rest of the year we will continue to publish more Whidbey Writes selections and take the opportunity […]

One Comment Tags: Chris Spencer, literary, Northwest Institute of Literary Arts, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

Magically Real || Life in the (super-duper) slow lane

by Stephanie Barbé Hammer in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: July 1, 2015 8:14 pm - Permalink

Being a Whidbey writer means that you can work in your pajamas, or in your slippers. Or both.

Here, in Coupeville, my neighbors are gradually getting used to seeing me in PJs ’til lunchtime, or not seeing me in the morning at all.

No Comments Tags: Island time, Whidbey culture, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Fiction and Fine Wine: Fundraiser for Whidbey Air on July 10

by Art News in Community, Community News, Culinary, Literary
Posted on: July 1, 2015 9:09 am - Permalink

July 1, 2015 Fiction and Fine Wine, a fundraiser for Whidbey Air is hosted by bayleaf in Coupeville. You’re invited to a Fundraiser for Whidbey Air from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, July 10. featuring a reading from “The Puppet Turners of Narrow Interior,” a novel by Whidbey writer Stephanie Barbé Hammer. It includes a glass of wine and […]

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Literary/Poetry Night by Northwest Institute for Literary Arts at Blooms June 26

by Art News in Community News, Literary, Winery
Posted on: June 24, 2015 6:24 pm - Permalink

June 24, 2015 The Northwest Institute of Literary Arts kicks off the weekend with featuring readings from poets and writers at 6:00 p.m. Friday, June 26 at Blooms Winery and Tasting Room. Readings by Jim Gearhart (whose essays have appeared in Shark Reef Literary Magazine & High Country News); Mary Heron Hake (who has been […]

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Embracing the Geek Within: Jennifer Stuller Uses her Power for Good

by Katie Woodzick in Community, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: June 24, 2015 8:12 am - Permalink

Growing up, my favorite game to play was Power Rangers. I eschewed Barbies, except to cut off all their hair and make them villains in my Power Rangers games. I would climb up into the tree in my backyard, pretending it was the yellow Power Ranger’s sabre tooth tiger vehicle.

No Comments Tags: Geek Girls on Whidbey, Whidbey events, Whidbey feminists

Third Place Winners of WIWA’s ‘Celebrate Writing Contest’ share their entries

by Art News in Celebrate Writing, Literary
Posted on: June 24, 2015 7:47 am - Permalink

The Whidbey Island Writers Association (WIWA) has encouraged and recognized writing talent among Whidbey Island students through the ‘Celebrate Writing’ Contest’ since 1999, but this year, five nonprofit and for-profit organizations collaborated to recognize and support young writers.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Island Writers Association, Whidbey writers

In Search of Truth and Beauty || The Green Fields of Home

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: June 17, 2015 10:25 pm - Permalink

I returned to Whidbey Island from a short trip to Amsterdam in mid-April. Although I was only gone for ten days, it seemed like everything had changed; the green was so alive it almost made me cry. Spring is full of such promise that it is also bittersweet.

No Comments Tags: in search of truth and beauty, Island food and farms, Whidbey local foods

Winners of WIWA’s ‘Celebrate Writing Contest’ — Second Place (continued)

by Art News in Celebrate Writing, Literary
Posted on: June 17, 2015 11:00 am - Permalink

The Whidbey Island Writers Association (WIWA) has encouraged and recognized writing talent among Whidbey Island students through the ‘Celebrate Writing’ Contest’ since 1999, but this year, five nonprofit and for-profit organizations collaborated to recognize and support young writers.

No Comments Tags: Celebrate Writing, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

What’s Happening || Thursday, June 25 through Sunday June 28

by Katy Shaner in Community, Culinary, Feature, Festivals, Film, Gardens, Literary, More Stories, Theater and Dance, Visual Art, What's Happening, Winery
Posted on: June 14, 2015 7:43 am - Permalink

Welcome to the weekend on Whidbey. Many weekend events start on Thursday night so this “What’s Happening” covers Thursday through Sunday. “What’s Happening” is a collaborative information guide project between the The Visitor Information Kiosk and Whidbey Life Magazine.

No Comments Tags: Island food and farms, Theater, Whidbey artists, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island, Whidbey music

Sue the Screenwriter || Kelman on the Carpet at Cannes

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary, Theater and Dance
Posted on: June 10, 2015 7:50 am - Permalink

So I had the incredible opportunity to attend the 68th Cannes Film Festival last month to support the film “Our Father,” of which I am an associate producer. But my experience wasn’t quite what I had expected, or what I had seen on “E!”

No Comments Tags: Sue the Screenwriter, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Get ready for the Poetry Slam June 17 at the Freeland Cafe

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: June 10, 2015 7:37 am - Permalink

June 10, 2015 The next Whidbey Island Arts Council Poetry Slam is all set for 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17 at the Freeland Cafe. Celebrate Life with Poetry—join Conductor of Fun Jim Freeman, and Hostess of Fun Petite Bryant-Hunt, as the 2015 Island Arts Council Poetry Slam season continues. No poetic experience is required, but […]

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Winners of WIWA’s ‘Celebrate Writing Contest’ — Second Place

by Art News in Celebrate Writing, Community, Literary
Posted on: June 9, 2015 7:58 pm - Permalink

The Whidbey Island Writers Association (WIWA) has encouraged and recognized writing talent among Whidbey Island students through the Celebrate Writing Contest since 1999, but this year, five nonprofit and for-profit organizations collaborated to recognize and support young writers.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Children's Theater, Whidbey Island, Whidbey Island Writers Association, Whidbey writers

The Guy in the Gold Sequined Shoes

by Dianna MacLeod in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: June 3, 2015 12:12 pm - Permalink

On Wednesday, May 27, writer Chris Spencer, wearing his signature gold sequined shoes, teamed up with actor Shelley Hartle to present, to an audience at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 55 little masterpieces in the short, short story genre. In this, the eighth such contest, island writers tackled subjects both serious and funny.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Whidbey theater, Whidbey writers

First Prize Winners of WIWA’s ‘Celebrate Writing Contest’

by Art News in Celebrate Writing, Community, Literary
Posted on: June 3, 2015 8:30 am - Permalink

This year’s Celebrate Writing Contest was a big success! We’re grateful for the dedication and support from Whidbey Island teachers, NILA staff and volunteers, judges, the Whidbey Children’s Theater, Whidbey Life Magazine, and all those who participated in this year’s contest.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Children's Theater, Whidbey Island Writers Association, Whidbey writers
blogger

The New Kid on the Block || Rambling on and the art of 100 words

by Les McCarthy in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: May 30, 2015 6:04 pm - Permalink

I am a rambler. Oh, not the automobile that my grandparents had that they drove every other Sunday, if the moon was full or the sun was high…the car that still had that “new car smell” 15 years after it rolled into their garage for the first time, back in the early ’60s.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Cam Castle Says his Mother’s Crazier than Yours

by Natalie Olsen in Feature, Humor, Literary, More Stories, Second Chance
Posted on: May 27, 2015 10:15 am - Permalink

In junior high school, Cameron Castle wrote a play about his mother. More than forty years later, he’s still describing her antics in his recently published “My Mother is Crazier than Your Mother.”

No Comments Tags: Whidbey writers

‘Celebrate Writing’ Awards Ceremony on Saturday, May 30

by Art News in Community, Community News, Literary
Posted on: May 27, 2015 8:24 am - Permalink

May 27, 2014 Student winners of this year’s “Celebrate Writing” contest, sponsored by Whidbey Island Writers Association’s (WIWA)  will read their work aloud on stage at the awards ceremony at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 30 at the Whidbey Children’s Theater. Since 1999, WIWA’s “Celebrate Writing” contest has recognized and encouraged writing talent among Whidbey Island students. […]

One Comment

Play That Song Again || Poems, movies, songs and the laws of attraction

by Erik Christensen in Blogs, Film, Literary, Music
Posted on: May 24, 2015 2:18 pm - Permalink

“One good thing about music / When it hits, you feel no pain….” —Bob Marley

We’ve all heard Bob Marley sing these lines, yes? And if not, we can probably relate to music and art that can soothe the pain or help us get through hard times.

No Comments Tags: music, Whidbey artists, WLM blogs

Smashed, Once Again…on Wednesday, May 27 at WICA

by Dianna MacLeod in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: May 20, 2015 8:24 pm - Permalink

A man of few words…but all of them carefully chosen. Meet Chris Spencer, creator of the upcoming Short Story Smash.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Whidbey writers

Free ‘Write to Heal’ class begins Friday, May 22

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: May 20, 2015 10:50 am - Permalink

May 20, 2015 If you are dealing with illness or injury, “Write to Heal” is an opportunity to transform change, loss and grief into creativity. Come join Kathryn Stivers, counselor, and Susanne Fest, EdD, for explorations into the ways our bodies provide information that may support the healing process. The free, three-session class meets Friday, May 22, June 5 […]

One Comment

WICA Presents: Chris Spencer’s 100-Word Short Story Smash Contest

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: May 19, 2015 10:55 am - Permalink

May 20, 2015 Announcing Chris Spencer’s 100-Word Short Story Smash—providing an opportunity for local writers to have their short, short stories (100 words exactly) read in public. Enter for the gratuitous amount of glory, fame and extreme monetary prizes. Strict rules about the submissions. 1. All short stories must be 100 words exactly; not 99 […]

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Happy As Clams: The 18th Annual Hedgebrook Women Playwrights Festival

by Katie Woodzick in Feature, Literary, More Stories, Theater and Dance
Posted on: May 13, 2015 9:06 am - Permalink

Suzanne Vega was originally invited to Hedgebrook to be in residence as part of the Singer/Songwriter retreat. But she had another idea and a request: to come to Hedgebrook as a playwright.

Vega was working on a play—“Two Lectures: An Evening with Carson McCullers”—and she wanted to bring it to the Hedgebrook Women Playwrights Festival.

No Comments Tags: festival, Hedgebrook, Theater, Whidbey Island, Writing workshops

Robert Dugoni Teaches How to Write Thrillers and What Elvis Has to Do with It

by Martha McCartney in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: May 11, 2015 11:33 pm - Permalink

“Everyone can write,” said Robert Dugoni, as he talked about how to write a best-seller. And he should know. He has now published eight novels and one volume of non-fiction.

No Comments Tags: Langley, Whidbey events, Whidbey writers, Writing workshops

Women Writers: Join Hedgebrook for VORTEXT at Whidbey Institute in May!

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: May 11, 2015 10:54 am - Permalink

May 11, 2015 VORTEXT, an extraordinary weekend salon at the famed Whidbey Institute that is led by renowned women writers, will be held this year from Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31 at Whidbey Institute on Whidbey Island. The program, now in its fourth year, gives writers the opportunity to connect in diverse and powerful small-group workshops. Writers also enjoy […]

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Morgana Morgaine|| Whidbey Writes May 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Community, Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: May 6, 2015 9:51 am - Permalink

Morgana Morgaine|| Whidbey Writes May 2015

No Comments Tags: Northwest Institute for Literary Arts, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

What’s Happening || Thursday, April 30 through Sunday May 3

by Katy Shaner in Community, Feature, Festivals, Literary, More Stories, Music, Theater and Dance, Visual Art, What's Happening
Posted on: April 29, 2015 8:52 am - Permalink

Welcome to the weekend on Whidbey. “What’s Happening” is a collaborative information guide project between the The Visitor Information Kiosk and Whidbey Life Magazine.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey artists, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island

Creativity Café || It’s All Good!

by Deb Lund in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: April 22, 2015 8:48 pm - Permalink

“It’s all good!” We hear that a lot around Whidbey. Because it is all good. But we often say those words to gloss over the times when we’re spinning our wheels instead of getting to where we want to be.

4 Comments Tags: Deb Lund, WLM blogs

‘Cabaret Erotique’ at Ott & Murphy’s on Friday, April 17

by Art News in Community News, Literary, Music, Theater and Dance
Posted on: April 15, 2015 9:16 am - Permalink

April 15, 2015 In celebration of Poetry Month, Ott & Murphy’s Winery Tasting Room presents the second in the new series of Cabaret entertainments this Friday, April 17 at 7:30 p.m. The series is produced by Judith Walcutt and hosted by David Ossman. A literary, musical and fantasy, “Cabaret Erotique” focuses on women writers of the Surrealist […]

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In Search of Truth and Beauty || The roots we cultivate on our travels

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: April 15, 2015 9:10 am - Permalink

I am writing this from far afield—although these days we are never too far in terms of communication, are we? I am writing this in a tightly packed alley of backyard garden in a quiet residential neighborhood in Amsterdam.

How did I get here? Am I dreaming?

One Comment Tags: Rob Schouten Gallery, WLM blogs

WICA’s One Act Fest Northwest continues this weekend

by Art News in Community News, Literary, Theater and Dance
Posted on: April 14, 2015 7:25 pm - Permalink

April 9, 2015 (updated April 15) The first annual One Act Festival continues this weekend at the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts. The opening night of the festival last weekend was a hit so don’t miss these one act plays this weekend April 17-19. Black Comedy by Peter Shaffer, directed by Tristan A.B. Steel Baby […]

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What’s Happening || Thursday, April 16 through Sunday April 19

by Katy Shaner in Literary, More Stories, Music, Theater and Dance, What's Happening, Winery
Posted on: April 11, 2015 3:16 pm - Permalink

Welcome to the weekend on Whidbey. Many weekend events start on Thursday night so this “What’s Happening” covers Thursday through Sunday. “What’s Happening” is a collaborative information guide project between the The Visitor Information Kiosk and Whidbey Life Magazine.

No Comments Tags: jazz, Langley, music, Theater, Whidbey theater

‘Boys in the Boat’ author to speak April 15 on Whidbey Island

by Art News in Community, Community News, Literary, Member News
Posted on: April 8, 2015 11:39 am - Permalink

April 8, 2015 Whidbey Island’s five community libraries have been hosting a six-week series of events inspired by “The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics” by Daniel James Brown. These events culminate on Wednesday, April 15 with presentations by the author. Brown will speak […]

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Old Dogs, New Tricks: Poetry Night with Burgess, Ossman and Roxborough — April 16

by Patricia Duff in Community, Community News, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: April 8, 2015 7:59 am - Permalink

In recognition of April Poetry Month, Rob Schouten Gallery at Greenbank Farm is pleased to present an evening of poetry titled, “Old Dogs, New Tricks,” featuring poets David Ossman, Stephen Roxborough and John Burgess at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 16.

No Comments Tags: David Ossman, John Burgess, Marshmallows and Despair, poetry month, poetry reading, Rob Schouten Gallery, Stephen Roxborough, Whidbey poets

South Whidbey Edible Book Festival offers treats to a large crowd

by Martha McCartney in Culinary, Festivals, Humor, Literary, More Stories, Photo essay
Posted on: April 1, 2015 7:45 pm - Permalink

The third Annual South Whidbey Edible Book Festival, held Sunday, March 29 at Bayview Hall, pulled in an enthusiastic group of bibliophiles and gastrophiles. Whidbey Life Magazine photographer Martha McCartney attended and captured a few photos of participants and observers, plus a few “patient” kids waiting for votes to be tallied so the edible entries could be sampled.

No Comments Tags: culinary, Island food and farms, Whidbey events

‘For the Place Where the Ancient Tree Now Rests on Ebey’s Bluff Trail’ by Martha McCartney || Whidbey Writes April 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: April 1, 2015 7:42 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Martha McCartney, our featured writer for April in Whidbey Writes. We’re pleased to be able to share her work of poetry with you.

4 Comments

Minding the Sky || Dreaming of Buried Treasure

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: April 1, 2015 7:36 pm - Permalink

I’ve been thinking about summer on Whidbey lately. I am beginning to see it glimmering in the green glow of late afternoon; I am catching a whiff of it in the softening air. We wait all year for it.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey Island, WLM blogs

South Whidbey Edible Book Festival is back March 29

by Art News in Community News, Feature, Literary, Member News
Posted on: March 25, 2015 9:47 am - Permalink

March 25, 2015 The Edible Book Festival is coming to Whidbey Island so bring an entry – or just come ready to eat one! This year the Festival is 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 29 at Bayview Hall located at 5642 Bayview Rd., Langley. Entry registration is scheduled from 1 to 1:45 p.m and […]

No Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey local foods

Rob Schouten Gallery presents ‘The Department of Whimzy,’ with the art of David Ossman and Stephen Roxborough in April

by Patricia Duff in Community News, Literary, Member News, Visual Art
Posted on: March 25, 2015 9:46 am - Permalink

In recognition of April Poetry Month, Ossman, Roxborough and literary cohort John Burgess, poets all, will also hold a free poetry reading at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 16, in addition to the First Friday opening reception.

No Comments Tags: collage, David Ossman, Department of Whimzy, dioramas, Firesign Theatre, photography, poetry month, poetry reading, Rob Schouten Gallery, Stephen Roxborough, Whidbey Island art, whimsical art

Sue the Screenwriter || Screenwriting, Pies and Twirling with Sheep

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: March 25, 2015 9:45 am - Permalink

During the Whidbey Island Writers Conference, I had the good fortune to meet and interview the delightful Chantelle Aimee, who took the time out from her weekend’s busy teaching schedule to share her thoughts on screenwriting.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

What’s Happening || Thursday, April 2 through Sunday, April 5

by Katy Shaner in Community, Culinary, Festivals, Gardens, Literary, More Stories, Music, Spotlight, Theater and Dance, Visual Art, What's Happening
Posted on: March 22, 2015 9:45 am - Permalink

Welcome to the weekend on Whidbey. Many weekend events start on Thursday night so this “What’s Happening” covers Thursday through Sunday.

No Comments Tags: art, festival, jazz, music, Whidbey artists, Whidbey local foods, Whidbey music

Only Calm Seas and Smooth Sailing for Jay Jacobs, Author of ‘The Widow Wave,’ a True Courtroom Drama of Tragedy at Sea

by Les McCarthy in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: March 10, 2015 6:13 pm - Permalink

How does a boat with five people aboard just disappear? Without witnesses or hard evidence to explain it, Jay Jacobs embarked on the defense trial of his career.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey writers

Sirithiri || Writing My Book

by Siri Bardarson in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: March 4, 2015 7:36 pm - Permalink

I was a confirmed reader by the age of ten and for a never-enough girl like myself, there were always more books. Over-indulging on bazillions of words like chocolate chips… Into paragraphs like cookies…

3 Comments Tags: sirithiri, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

“True to Life” by Patricia Brooks | Whidbey Writes March 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: March 4, 2015 12:39 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Patricia Brooks, the third writer featured in Whidbey Writes, we’re pleased to be able to share her work of short fiction with you.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

“What’s Happening” | Feb. 13-15 and 20-22

by Katy Shaner in Community, Culinary, Feature, Literary, More Stories, Music, Theater and Dance, Visual Art, Winery
Posted on: February 6, 2015 5:09 pm - Permalink

“WHAT’S HAPPENING” is for visitors and islanders, this post covers two weekends.

The Visitor Information Kiosk welcomes you to Whidbey Island and the many places to visit while you are here. In this handout you will find events and activities happening the next two weekends.

No Comments Tags: Katy Shaner, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island

Creativity Café | Are We There Yet?

by Deb Lund in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: February 4, 2015 5:46 pm - Permalink

Why do we think we’re never enough? What would we do if we were enough?

No Comments Tags: Deb Lund, Whidbey Island, WLM blogs

“Advice for a Newcomer” by Sheryl Clough | Whidbey Writes February 2015

by Whidbey Writes in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: February 4, 2015 4:37 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Sheryl, she is the second writer featured in Whidbey Writes and we’re pleased to be able to share her poem with you.

2 Comments Tags: Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers, Whidbey Writes

Book Launch for Allan Ament and ‘Learning to Float: Memoir of a Caregiver Husband’

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: February 4, 2015 4:32 pm - Permalink

February 4, 2015 Whidbey Island Author Allan Ament has released his literary debut, ‘Learning to Float: Memoir of a Caregiver Husband’, through Booktrope Publishing. Ament’s celebration and book launch will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Whidbey Island, 20103 State Route 525, Freeland, WA, 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015.  This event […]

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Whidbey Author Allan Ament’s Book Launch for Learning to Float: Memoir of a Caregiver Husband

by Les McCarthy in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: February 4, 2015 3:58 pm - Permalink

Learning to swim brings trepidation, anxiety and fears of sinking and drowning. However, after much splashing about and water up the nose, we realize that if we relax and lie along the top of the water and let Nature take her course, allowing our buoyant bodies to do what they do when in water…we float.

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In Search of Truth and Beauty | The Nature of Stuff

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 28, 2015 1:02 pm - Permalink

I will be the first to admit how much I love my possessions, my beloved treasures that hold beauty and memory. They reside in two places at once, past and present, straddling the worlds both visible and unseen.

5 Comments Tags: Joni Takanikos, Poetry, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Four Writing Wonders

by Stephanie Barbé Hammer in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 20, 2015 5:39 pm - Permalink

Whidbey may be an island, but we draw some of the most brilliant writers in the US to our foggy shores.

Recently, I’ve spent time with not one but TWO Washington State Poets Laureate. (By the way, it’s not Poet Laureates, but rather Poets Laureate. Like Attorneys General. Explanation courtesy of current Poet Laureate Elizabeth Austen.)

No Comments Tags: Elizabeth Austen, Kathleen Flenniken, Nancy Rawles, NILA, Stephanie Barbe' Hammer, Tananarive Due, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Minding the Sky | With Angels About

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 13, 2015 12:28 pm - Permalink

The holiday season came and went in a blur of twinkling lights and crumpled tissue paper, didn’t it? Time at this time of year has an eerie, Dali-esque, melting quality—the days are short and sometimes don’t ever change from a dusky shade of twilight, which makes getting out of pajamas on a Sunday almost impossible to do.

7 Comments Tags: WLM blogs

The five things I’ve learned about writing from watching Downton Abbey

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 7, 2015 8:38 pm - Permalink

t’s the beginning of 2015; for some of you that means renewed exercise or healthier eating practices. Or maybe you’re planning on finally writing that book or screenplay. For me it is all about the return of my favorite British period drama: Downton Abbey, which follows an upper crust household now in the 1930s.

2 Comments Tags: Theater, WLM blogs

Whidbey Writes • January 2015 | Gina Williams

by Whidbey Writes in Feature, Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: January 7, 2015 8:35 pm - Permalink

Congratulations to Gina Williams, the first writer selected for publication in the new Whidbey Writes program, a collaboration between the Northwest Institute of Literary Arts (NILA) and Whidbey Life Magazine (WLM).

One Comment

Poet Laureate Elizabeth Austen comes to Langley for interview/reading on Jan. 9 and workshop on Jan. 10

by Art News in Community News, Literary
Posted on: January 7, 2015 10:22 am - Permalink

Dec. 29, 2014 Washington State Poet Laureate Elizabeth Austen returns to Whidbey Island to share her poetry, talk about her new book, “Every Dress a Decision,” and to teach a poetry workshop. Austen will speak at 7:30 p.m on Friday, Jan. 9, with Book City columnist and Langleyite Val Easton at WICA in Langley. Austen will […]

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Whidbey Writes

by Sue Taves in Literary, Whidbey Writes
Posted on: January 1, 2015 10:34 am - Permalink

January 1, 2015 Whidbey Writes is a collaboration between the Northwest Institute of Literary Arts (NILA) and Whidbey Life Magazine (WLM). Its purpose is to give WLM readers an opportunity to enjoy short fiction and poetry by writers who have a connection to Whidbey Island. We look forward to publishing the original work of selected […]

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‘Whidbey Writes’ invites you to submit

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: December 22, 2014 12:22 pm - Permalink

Dec. 10, 2014 “Whidbey Writes” is a collaboration between the Northwest Institute of Literary Arts and Whidbey Life Magazine. Its purpose is to encourage writers with a Whidbey connection to submit short fiction and poetry for publication in the online and print versions of Whidbey Life Magazine. The program is an outgrowth of the Whidbey […]

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Sirithiri | Love in the Time of Plethora

by Siri Bardarson in Blogs, Literary, Theater and Dance
Posted on: December 17, 2014 7:16 pm - Permalink

Change is in the air as the New Year approaches and I am ready for my part in this large drama.

4 Comments Tags: sirithiri, Whidbey theater, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

On the Road Again, with Pigment, Perspective, and Pandas

by Anne Belov in Blogs, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: December 10, 2014 4:57 pm - Permalink

Dec 10, 2014 On the Road Again… When I make comics, it’s hard sometimes not to feel like I am engaging in a lesser form of art making, if indeed it is even part of the art world at all. Comics? Puh-leeze! Is that what you went to art school for? If comics were serious […]

One Comment Tags: Anne Belov, Whidbey artists, WLM blogs

Pandamorphosis at Clinton Library Holiday Event

by Anne Belov in Literary, Member News, Visual Art
Posted on: December 10, 2014 9:11 am - Permalink

Dec. 10, 2014 Anne Belov will sign and sell her latest book, “Pandamorphosis,” at the Clinton Library Holiday Festival. She will also have all of her “Panda Chronicles” series books for sale as well. The event takes place at the Clinton Community Hall, 6411 Central Avenue in Clinton , from 2 until 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. […]

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Book signing for ‘Emma the Etiquette Cat’ on Sunday, Nov. 30

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: November 29, 2014 1:02 am - Permalink

Artworks Gallery will host a book signing for the children’s book, “Emma the Etiquette Cat: Meet Emma” from 12 noon to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30. Emma is a rag-doll feline who fancies herself a well-behaved kitty and whose daily quest is to please her mum. The book is beautifully written by Whidbey Island author Bernadette Michelle Petrotta and illustrated […]

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Creativity Café | Get in the Game!

by Deb Lund in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: November 19, 2014 12:49 pm - Permalink

My mission is to get people claiming their creativity. To fulfill my mission, you have to get in the game.

A key to success in the creative arts is persistence. This isn’t new knowledge, and it’s a quality that we can develop. But it’s hard to persist at what you don’t start.

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Meet your word count by writing in community this November

by Art News in Community, Literary, Member News
Posted on: November 14, 2014 8:32 am - Permalink

Nov. 14, 2014 Whether you’re participating in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and writing a 50,000- word novel in 30 days, or just need some companionship and accountability to help you meet your writing goals, there are two places where you can write in community in November. Mornings, you can write with Chris Peterson and […]

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So, You Think You Can Write a Novel? Whidbey Island Participates in NaNoWriMo

by Katie Woodzick in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: November 12, 2014 5:34 pm - Permalink

Every November, thousands of writers across the globe participate in National Novel Writing Month.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

In Search of Truth and Beauty | Witnessing Autumn

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: November 12, 2014 4:41 pm - Permalink

It has been raining off and on all day, a percussive steady rhythm with a few long silences, and then once again the rain builds its case to the sky, so sure of itself and of its falling. As night descends, the autumn wind has rushed in to add its message to the rain. It must be the second act in this dramatic northwest fall saga.

2 Comments Tags: Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

What to do when the fog rolls in

by Stephanie Barbé Hammer in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: November 5, 2014 4:50 pm - Permalink

People like to complain about fog and mist. When I lived in Geneva many years ago, everyone I knew complained about the grey skies, the mist and the damp winds.

Everyone, that is, except for some people.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey writers

New York Times best seller, David R. Ignatius, interviewed at WICA on Saturday, Nov. 15

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: November 5, 2014 4:46 pm - Permalink

Nov. 5, 2014 WICA presents a rare interview with David R. Ignatius by Robert W. Merry, and a glimpse into his gripping new novel “The Director,” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15. Ignatius’ book was an instant New York Times bestseller about how spies don’t bother to steal information… they change it, permanently and invisibly. An American journalist […]

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#WIWC14 in Photos, by David Welton

by David Welton in Literary, More Stories, Visual Art
Posted on: October 29, 2014 7:38 pm - Permalink

David Welton attended the Whidbey Writers Conference this past weekend and captured the vitality of the sessions in photos.

4 Comments Tags: Whidbey Island Writers Conference, Whidbey writers

May I interest you in a can of beans?

by Dianna MacLeod in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: October 29, 2014 6:31 pm - Permalink

As Day One of the fall Whidbey Island Writers Conference unfolded, both my brain and binder filled with tips on the art and craft of writing: constructing dialogue, creating conflict, developing character.

4 Comments Tags: Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

Sirithiri | Attending a Writers Conference, or, ‘I love you more than…’

by Siri Bardarson in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: October 29, 2014 5:53 pm - Permalink

Whidbey Life Magazine was a sponsor of this weekend’s 2014 Whidbey Island Writers Conference and, as a blogger for WLM, I was allowed to go as a member of the “press.” What a blast!

7 Comments Tags: sirithiri, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

Minding the Sky | When Mercury is in Retrograde ​

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: October 22, 2014 6:54 pm - Permalink

The Fall is finally falling. The shadow of Summer was stillgolden in the trees as recently as last week. Remember? Unseasonably warm, with almost sirocco–like winds, it felt like another country around here.

3 Comments Tags: Judith Walcutt, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Whidbey Island Writers Conference announces Saturday only registration

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: October 22, 2014 6:09 pm - Permalink

Oct. 22, 2014 ANNOUNCING SATURDAY ONLY REGISTRATION AND SATURDAY NIGHT REGISTRATION! Northwest Institute of Literary Arts announces the 16th annual Whidbey Island Writers Conference (WIWC), October 24-26. A gorgeous island location and an intimate setting for workshops makes WIWC the ultimate conference for novice and professional writers to further their knowledge in craft, publishing, and […]

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The Joy of Rejection: Suzanne Kelman

by Suzanne Kelman in Feature, Humor, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: October 22, 2014 6:05 pm - Permalink

Walking into Suzanne Kelman’s home is like walking into a Mary Englebreit drawing. Warmth permeates every corner. Plaid couches, colorful rugs, and sweet-smelling candles form a kaleidoscope of color, scent and pattern. Everything in the house feels well-loved and welcoming.

2 Comments Tags: literary, Suzanne Kelman, Whidbey writers

Writers Have Plenty of Reasons to Attend Island Conference

by Dianna MacLeod in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: October 22, 2014 5:51 pm - Permalink

There are at least 150 good reasons to take part in the upcoming Whidbey Island Writers Conference (WIWC)—at least one for every writer who plans to attend.

One Comment Tags: NILA, Whidbey Island Writers Conference, Whidbey writers

Sue the Screenwriter | You can’t miss the road less traveled; it’s third on the left with the dark winding pathways, occasional sinkholes, and very unexpected twists and turns

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Humor, Literary
Posted on: October 17, 2014 8:37 am - Permalink

Three weeks ago I actually got to hold that newborn book: “The Rejected Writers Book Club.” It was all sexy in its brand new glossy cover, and I couldn’t believe how proud I was of it. I had done it, finished something I hoped would help fund my screenwriting career.

2 Comments Tags: literary, Sue the Screenwriter, Whidbey writers

CHANTEUSE concert, “Around the World in 80 Minutes”

by Art News in Literary, Member News, Music, Theater and Dance
Posted on: October 15, 2014 7:21 pm - Permalink

Oct. 15, 2014 Chanteuse, a Whidbey Island non-profit community Women’s Choir, will perform a collaborative concert at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24  and at 4 p.m. on Sat., Oct. 25. The program will feature Dana Moffatt’s group, “Sarungano,” which plays music of Zimbabwe and well-known world storyteller, Jill Johnson, who will enthrall us with stories from Japan and Uganda. Choir […]

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Gwen Jones brings a haunting night to WICA in new literary series

by Art News in Literary, Member News, Theater and Dance
Posted on: October 15, 2014 7:06 pm - Permalink

Oct. 15, 2014 ‘Masters of the Pen’ with Gwen Jones is a new dramatic reading series that brings unabridged classics from some of the greatest writers of the 18th, 19th and 20th century to the WICA stage. The series kicks off on Thursday, October 30 @ 7:30 with a night of classic horror and spine-tingling […]

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Call for submissions to Chris Spencer’s 100-word Short Story Smash at WICA

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: October 15, 2014 6:05 pm - Permalink

Oct. 15, 2014 Whidbey Island Center for the Arts proudly presents Chris Spencer’s “Short Story Smash Contest” at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 29. Calling all writers to share their stories and have them read out loud by well-dressed rhetoricians on the WICA main stage that evening. Send your story (or stories) to: cspencer@whidbey.com no […]

2 Comments

16th Annual Whidbey Island Writers Conference convenes Oct. 24-26 in Coupeville

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: October 7, 2014 9:28 am - Permalink

Oct. 7, 2014 Featuring best-selling author Daniel James Brown: “The Boys in the Boat” Northwest Institute of Literary Arts is delighted to announce its 16th annual Whidbey Island Writers Conference (WIWC), convening October 24–26 in the historic fishing village of Coupeville. Novice and professional writers from all over the world rub elbows at WIWC each […]

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Lost and Found: Daniel James Brown Rescues the Past

by Martha McCartney in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: October 1, 2014 8:07 pm - Permalink

I remember reading about the 1936 Olympics and Jesse Owens, who won four gold medals in track and field. But I was completely surprised when I was told about the medals won by the young men of Washington that same year.

One Comment Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

What’s Happening: Thursday, Sept. 25 – Sunday, Sept. 28

by Art News in Community, Culinary, Literary, Music, Spotlight, Theater and Dance, Visual Art, Winery
Posted on: September 18, 2014 6:20 pm - Permalink

SUBMITTED BY KATY SHANER Whidbey Life Magazine Guest Contributor Sept. 24, 2014 The Visitor Information Kiosk welcomes you to Whidbey Island and the many places to visit while you are on the island. In this handout you will find events and activities happening this weekend. Since 2008, the Visitor Kiosk has welcomed over 22,000 visitors […]

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Whidbey Island Writers Conference brings best-selling authors to Whidbey

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: September 16, 2014 11:03 am - Permalink

Sept. 9, 2014 Northwest Institute of Literary Arts is delighted to announce its 16th annual Whidbey Island Writers Conference (WIWC) convening on Friday through Sunday, Oct.24–26, in the historic fishing village of Coupeville. Novice and professional writers from all over the world rub elbows at WIWC each year, sharing stories and inspiration as they deepen […]

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Women’s LifeWriting Retreat: “The Next Chapter…Of Your Life”

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: September 15, 2014 10:26 am - Permalink

Sept. 15, 2014 “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” poet Mary Oliver asks us. Jeanne Guy Gatherings is presenting a Women’s LifeWriting Retreat: “The Next Chapter…Of Your Life” from Thursday, Oct. 2 through Monday, Oct. 6. Only four spots remain! The fee of $1175 includes sessions, lodging and all meals at […]

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Pandas invade Freeland Library

by Art News in Humor, Literary, Member News, Visual Art
Posted on: September 10, 2014 10:59 am - Permalink

Sept. 10, 2014 The original artwork for Anne Belov’s wordless picture book, “Pandamorphosis,” is now on display at the Freeland branch of the Sno-Isle Library. The work will be on view for the entire month of September. Anne will also give a presentation at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 19 at the library, about how […]

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Creativity Cafe’ | Fall Cleaning: Are You Enough?

by Deb Lund in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: August 29, 2014 7:53 am - Permalink

BY DEB LUND August 29, 2014 You can taste it, can’t you? Fall… I’m much more of a fall cleaner than a spring cleaner. Fall is a time of letting go, reflecting, preparing, renewing. For me, besides the bags and boxes heading to our amazing Whidbey thrift stores, that means recommitting as a writer, writing […]

No Comments Tags: Deb Lund, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

What’s Happening: Thursday, August 28-Sunday, August 31

by Art News in Community, Culinary, Feature, Festivals, Literary, More Stories, Music, Theater and Dance, Visual Art
Posted on: August 27, 2014 4:44 pm - Permalink

The Visitor Information Kiosk welcomes you to Whidbey Island and the many places to visit while you are on the island. In this handout you will find events and activities happening this weekend.

No Comments Tags: music, Whidbey artists, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island, Whidbey theater

In Search of Truth and Beauty | Resting in the Nest of Impermanence

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary, Theater and Dance
Posted on: August 22, 2014 3:46 am - Permalink

In these last days of summer my mind is often caught in a daydream. And although September is now close enough for us to hear its whisper of classrooms filled with summer endings and schoolbooks opening to the pages of fall, somehow the yellowed grass of summer begs for a kind of semi-permanence, held fast by our skin and bones.

2 Comments Tags: WLM blogs

The Words of War: The Poetry of Linda Beeman

by Martha McCartney in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: August 20, 2014 8:07 pm - Permalink

Linda Beeman is a poet who has taken up that banner. In her most recent book of poetry, “Collateral Damage,” the award-winning Whidbey Island poet speaks through the voices of those who are actively involved in combat or dealing with the aftermath in the form of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

2 Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey writers

What’s Happening: Thursday, Sept. 4 – Sunday, Sept. 7

by Art News in Community, Culinary, Literary, More Stories, Music, Theater and Dance, Visual Art, Winery
Posted on: August 20, 2014 7:50 pm - Permalink

SUBMITTED BY KATY SHANER Whidbey Life Magazine Guest Contributor Sept. 3, 2014 The Visitor Information Kiosk welcomes you to Whidbey Island and the many places to visit while you are on the island. In this handout you will find events and activities happening this weekend. Since 2008, the Visitor Kiosk has welcomed over 18,000 visitors […]

One Comment

Whidbey’s All-Island Book Clubs Event Generates List of ‘Best Reads’

by Art News in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories, Second Chance
Posted on: August 20, 2014 3:15 pm - Permalink

Some 125 book lovers gathered under Henry, the big tent behind Langley Middle School, to exchange books, vie for raffle prizes, disclose their #1 reads for the year and enjoy several soliloquies by Island Shakespeare Festival actors.

No Comments Tags: All Island Book Clubs, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

What’s Happening: Thursday, August 20-Sunday, August 24

by Art News in Community, Culinary, Feature, Festivals, Literary, More Stories, Music, Visual Art
Posted on: August 18, 2014 4:00 pm - Permalink

The Visitor Information Kiosk welcomes you to Whidbey Island and the many places to visit while you are on the island. In this handout you will find events and activities happening this weekend.

No Comments Tags: Island food and farms, Whidbey artists, Whidbey events, Whidbey music, Whidbey theater

Location, Location, Location: Whidbey Writers Workshop MFA Program

by Dianna MacLeod in Community, Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: August 13, 2014 8:12 pm - Permalink

What’s true for homebuyers is equally true for writers: place is paramount.

No Comments Tags: NILA, Northwest Institute for Literary Arts, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

What’s Happening: Thursday, August 14-Sunday, August 17

by Art News in Community, Culinary, Festivals, Film, Humor, Literary, More Stories, Music, Theater and Dance, Visual Art, Winery
Posted on: August 13, 2014 7:54 pm - Permalink

SUBMITTED BY KATY SHANER Whidbey Life Magazine Guest Contributor August 13, 2014 The Visitor Information Kiosk welcomes you to Whidbey Island and the many places to visit while you are on the island. In this handout you will find events and activities happening this weekend. Since 2008, the Visitor Kiosk has welcomed over 18,000 visitors […]

No Comments Tags: art, festival, Greenbank Farm, music, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island

Dogs, ponies and culture at Greenbank Farm on Sunday, August 17

by Art News in Culinary, Literary, Member News, Winery
Posted on: August 13, 2014 11:34 am - Permalink

Greenbank Farm will host a “Dog & Pony Show” from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 17, coordinated by Jerry and Connie Lloyd, to highlight their merry band of friends, dogs and horses. Cassi Anderson and her always popular disc dogs will be on hand to flaunt their aerobatics.

No Comments

Minding the Sky | Blackberries and other local jewels at Hedgebrook

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Culinary, Literary
Posted on: August 8, 2014 7:56 am - Permalink

The plums of Honeymoon Bay are ripening; the blackberries are on the way to dropping in handfuls from the weight of their juices warmed by the sun. Summer is almost past her prime—but not quite.

A few hot days in a row made us thirsty for swimming and sunning and lolling about; they have fostered an urge to stretch the few really spectacular moments we have left in the season and make them last as long as possible. Optimistically, there are three more weeks of August and then three more potentially gorgeous ones in September, until the official Last Day of Summer sets behind the Olympics.

No Comments Tags: culinary, Judith Walcutt, Minding the Sky, Whidbey local foods, Whidbey writers

Sue the Screenwriter | The Curious Business of Writing

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: August 1, 2014 8:00 am - Permalink

Being a writer is a curious business. I have just completed a 67’000-word novel. Yes, I said 67’000 words. I had to write it twice, because I felt every one of those words—and I’m in shock. I’m in shock because I’m not a writer.

I started writing by accident, or necessity or some other twist of fate, but definitely not on purpose—a bit like in the movie “Forest Gump.”

2 Comments Tags: Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Author Kristin Ohlson tells us how “The Soil Will Save Us” on Sunday, July 27

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: July 21, 2014 6:36 pm - Permalink

Our “Great Green Hope” for Earth’s climate crisis lies not only in cutting emissions but in returning health to the soil beneath our feet. Thousands of years of poor farming, ranching and land practices have led to the loss of 80 billion tons of carbon from the world’s soils. Its new home? Our atmosphere.

No Comments Tags: Island food and farms, Whidbey local foods

Sheltering the Storytellers | Hedgebrook

by Katie Woodzick in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: July 9, 2014 7:02 pm - Permalink

They come from all over the world, authoring change. Over the past 26 years, 1,500 women writers from 40 countries have traveled to Whidbey Island to experience Hedgebrook’s radical hospitality.

No Comments Tags: Hedgebrook, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

Book Launch of ‘Whidbey Island: Reflections on People and the Land’ on July 10

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: July 8, 2014 5:44 pm - Permalink

The book launch of “Whidbey Island: Reflections on People and the Land” will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 10 at the Bayview Cash Store.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey writers

Island Book Clubs to brown bag it with the Bard

by Sue Taves in Literary, Member News
Posted on: July 2, 2014 8:47 am - Permalink

The Island Shakespeare Festival will be the host and beneficiary of this year’s All Island Book Clubs Gathering set for Tuesday, August 12, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

No Comments

Creativity Cafe’ | Don’t Beat Yourself Up—Create with Curiosity!

by Deb Lund in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: June 13, 2014 8:26 am - Permalink

As my husband sings his way through Japan, I’m here shuttling kids around and off the island to schools, appointments, lessons, practices, performances… Their father returns on Father’s Day, and I told him to be prepared to be a father.

No Comments Tags: WLM blogs

In Search of Truth and Beauty | Traces of the Oracle in Late Spring

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: June 6, 2014 8:32 am - Permalink

We are all seekers of one kind or another. Some find their answers in church or the Sunday Times, or perhaps both. We may climb a mountain, walk a beach, or maybe get lost in a rich and compelling novel. Sometimes we may seek out an oracle to point us in the right direction like a spritual compass.

No Comments Tags: WLM blogs

Vortext in Context: Writers Gather for the Hedgebrook Experience

by Dianna MacLeod in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: June 4, 2014 8:31 pm - Permalink

I sat beneath the vaulted ceiling of the Whidbey Institute’s Thomas Berry Hall, staring at the schedule for Hedgebrook’s third annual “Vortext” event, a group of women convening to discuss the art and craft of writing.

No Comments Tags: Hedgebrook, Vortext, Whidbey events, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers

Duff ’n Stuff | Please look up from that screen

by Patricia Duff in Blogs, Duff 'n Stuff, Literary
Posted on: May 30, 2014 7:59 am - Permalink

When I prepared myself for parenthood, I never dreamed I would have to deal with these seemingly impossible issues of how to keep my children safe from the global internet community.

One Comment Tags: Duff 'n Stuff, Internet and teens, Patricia Duff, raising teens, Whidbey Island parent

Guess What’s Coming to Dinner!

by Dianna MacLeod in Blogs, Culinary, Humor, Literary
Posted on: May 28, 2014 6:28 pm - Permalink

Two different things inspired me while pointing me in the same direction. The first was local author Vicki Robin’s experiment to survive on foods grown close to home. Second source of inspiration: a PBS program called “Can Eating Insects Save the World?”

No Comments Tags: Island food and farms, WLM blogs

Kick Up Your Heels at VORTEXT!

by Art News in Feature, Literary, More Stories, What's up
Posted on: May 26, 2014 11:18 am - Permalink

Imagine this…renowned mystery writer Elizabeth George is offering you insider tips on how to wrestle your story idea onto the page. Or New York Times bestselling author and Zen Buddhist Priest Ruth Ozeki is helping you incorporate daily meditation into your writing process.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey events, Whidbey writers

Minding the Sky | More about the dog here

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: May 23, 2014 7:20 am - Permalink

These beautiful days have been very unsettling. Like everybody else in the Northwest, when the sun shines, I just want to be in it. I have all kinds of very good reasons to do so—whack the weeds, transplant rhodies, empty the shed, wash the car, clean the gutters, and sweep up cedar debris that has accumulated on the roof.

7 Comments Tags: Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

See the 17th annual Hedgebrook Women Playwrights Festival performance at WICA this Sunday!

by Art News in Literary, Member News, Theater and Dance
Posted on: May 13, 2014 8:40 pm - Permalink

The Whidbey Island reading of the 2014 Hedgebrook Women Playwrights Festival takes place at 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 18 at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts in Langley.

No Comments Tags: Theater, Whidbey Island Center for the Arts

Sirithiri | Thank Blog it’s Friday: In Print!

by Siri Bardarson in Blogs, Literary, Music
Posted on: April 23, 2014 4:00 pm - Permalink

Whidbey Life Magazine is delivering its first print edition this week! And WLM is celebrating the release of the 2014 Spring/Summer edition at a release party this Friday night at Freeland Hall in Freeland. Be there or be square!

3 Comments Tags: sirithiri, WLM, WLM blogs

A Writer’s Foundation

by Dianna MacLeod in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: April 23, 2014 12:19 pm - Permalink

In 1999, author Elizabeth George created a foundation to give unpublished writers—of fiction, poetry, and plays—the experience of concentrating on their work unburdened by the demands of daily life.

No Comments Tags: Elizabeth George, Whidbey writers

A photo journey of Whidbey Life Magazine, Spring-Summer 2014, as it becomes a reality

by janshannon in Feature, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: April 16, 2014 5:08 pm - Permalink

The printing of the premier issue of Whidbey Life Magazine is underway and cofounders Sue Taves and Jan Shannon took a tour to see the action.

7 Comments Tags: photography, Whidbey Island, WLM

Creativity Café | Kayaking the Kickstarter

by Deb Lund in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: March 28, 2014 8:25 am - Permalink

Sometimes we need shaking up. You can’t do the same thing over and over and keep it creative.

I remember when I first dabbled in white-water kayaking. I’d play in the eddies where it was safe. As I got braver, I’d inch out a little farther each time, until I got to the point where I would intentionally go under to practice my roll.

One Comment Tags: Deb Lund, WLM blogs

‘New Self New World’ author Philip Shepherd talks at Freeland Library

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: March 24, 2014 8:38 pm - Permalink

Philip Shepherd, the author of “New Self New World” will speak at the Freeland Library,5495 Harbor Avenue in Freeland, at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 3.

No Comments Tags: Freeland

In Search of Truth and Beauty | Cycles between Here and There

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: March 20, 2014 9:57 pm - Permalink

Spring is a dangerous time of year. Delicate buds form on the branches, new shoots push up from the dark underground and we human beings clean out our closets, wash the windows and picnic on the warm green grass. But amidst these gentle breezes and warm sunny days, a thundercloud may suddenly form or a roaring wind blows from out of nowhere, it seems.

2 Comments Tags: Joni Takanikos, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

Fiction Magic: Card tricks and tips for writers gets a Kickstart!

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: March 19, 2014 8:17 pm - Permalink

“The purpose of Fiction Magic is to help writers increase the tension in their manuscripts while decreasing the tension in their writing lives.” Lund is an author, teacher, and creativity coach who often presents at conferences, workshops, MFA residencies, and schools. “I’ve had so many people ask for decks of their own for years now, and I’m finally making it happen.”

3 Comments Tags: Whidbey writers

‘Short Story Smash’ deadline is April 23; Submissions Simplified

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: March 19, 2014 10:42 am - Permalink

The 7th 100-Word Short Story Smash is coming to Whidbey Island Center for the Arts (WICA) at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30.

No Comments Tags: Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Whidbey writers

New book launch party and reading by poet Lorraine Healy is March 27

by Patricia Duff in Literary, Member News
Posted on: March 17, 2014 9:47 am - Permalink

The Rob Schouten Gallery at Greenbank Farm presents Whidbey Island poet Lorraine Healy at the release party for her latest chapbook “Abraham’s Voices,” with a reading by the author at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 27 at the gallery

No Comments Tags: Rob Schouten Gallery, Whidbey writers, WLM

Prize-winning author to speak on ‘The Writer’s Brain,’ Thursday, March 20

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: March 12, 2014 2:47 pm - Permalink

Mark Brady, PhD, reveals the neuroscience behind some of the challenges of writing when he speaks at this months’s meeting of the Whidbey Island Writers Association from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, March 20.

No Comments Tags: literary, Whidbey writers, WLM

Elizabeth George Reflects on the “Sounds and Sweet Airs” of the Isle of Whidbey

by Dianna MacLeod in Feature, Literary, Spotlight
Posted on: March 11, 2014 1:32 pm - Permalink

Elizabeth George, best-selling author and Whidbey Island resident, discusses writing her YA novel, “The Edge of the Water,” which is set on the island where she lives.

3 Comments Tags: novels, Whidbey Island, Whidbey writers, WLM

Unearth and re-discover treasured moments and memories on March 22

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: March 10, 2014 11:39 am - Permalink

Drew Lamm, a Canadian author and master teacher, will conduct two writing workshops on Saturday, March 22

No Comments

Minding the Sky with Zeno in Mind

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: March 7, 2014 8:26 am - Permalink

Zeno’s Paradox and Judith Walcutt’s version 5.5, draft 28 of her novel, “The Painter’s Girl” are evidence of the insight: “It is really difficult to write a good book!”

No Comments Tags: Judith Walcutt, Whidbey writers, WLM blogs

‘Pandamorphosis’ Gets a ‘Kickstart’ into the World

by Carolyn Tamler in Literary, More Stories, Visual Art
Posted on: February 25, 2014 9:00 am - Permalink

“As a little kid, my brothers and I had stuffed pandas and we played with them all the time,” said Anne Belov, the artist responsible for a “wordless children’s picture story book” about magical wishes gone awry—with pandas.

2 Comments Tags: Anne Belov, art, Whidbey artists, Whidbey writers

‘Pandamorphosis’ is now funding on Kickstarter

by Art News in Literary, Member News, Visual Art
Posted on: February 19, 2014 10:32 am - Permalink

February 19, 2014 Anne Belov’s latest project is now funding on Kickstarter and continues until 1 p.m., Friday, Feb. 28.. “Pandamorphosis,” Belov’s lavishly illustrated wordless picture book, had its humble beginning during a class on writing for children the artist took with Whidbey Island author, Deb Lund. It went through many changes until it finally emerged, four […]

One Comment Tags: Anne Belov

Playwriting for Teens with Amber Kizer at WCT

by Art News in Literary, Member News
Posted on: February 7, 2014 8:06 am - Permalink

February 7, 2014 In this amazing opportunity to work with internationally published author Amber Kizer, students will be able to take their ideas from the beginning stages, to constructing characters and plot, to emerging with a cohesive script for a one-act play! The class will end with actual performances of excerpts from students’ works on stage […]

No Comments

Make fiction magic with writer Deb Lund at a class in Bayview

by Patricia Duff in Literary, Member News
Posted on: January 14, 2014 11:38 am - Permalink

Lund, author of the children’s “Dinoseries” of picture books and WLM’s “Creativity Cafe” blog, presents her deck of Fiction Magic cards that are designed to get writers out of ruts and on to the finish. Fiction Magic card prompts may inspire new ideas, provide insights into revisions, or move writers through blocks.

No Comments Tags: Deb Lund, deck of writing prompts, dinoseries, Fiction Magic, fiction writing class, NILA, Whidbey Island Writers Association

Deadline for Celebrate Writing Contest for Students is Jan. 24

by Patricia Duff in Literary, More Stories
Posted on: January 13, 2014 10:29 am - Permalink

The Whidbey Island Writers Association and Whidbey Westside Rotary present the 2014 Celebrate Writing Contest for Students. The contest is open to all Whidbey Island students in grades 3 to 8 in the categories of poetry, non-fiction and fiction or personal story. Every entrant will receive supportive feedback from local writers. The deadline for entry is Friday, Jan. 24. […]

No Comments

Creativity Cafe | Energy follows action

by Deb Lund in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 11, 2014 10:28 am - Permalink

Okay, Deb. Let’s try a new tactic. When has energy follows action worked for you? (Inner creativity coaches can sometimes be as annoying as inner critics.) I roll my eyes (at least they’re open now) and consider a trip to the refrigerator.

One Comment Tags: creative writing, Creativity Cafe, Deb Lund, taking action, WLM blogs

‘Blessing the Hands That Feeds Us’ by local author Vicki Robin

by Patricia Duff in Literary, More Stories
Posted on: January 4, 2014 8:32 pm - Permalink

Find the book at Moonraker Books in Langley and at other major booksellers.

No Comments Tags: " Vicki Robin author, "Blessing the Hands that Feed Us, books on food, eating local Whidbey, local food, Whidbey author

In Search of Truth and Beauty | Endings and beginnings

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 3, 2014 6:26 am - Permalink

After the spinning top of these sweet, literally sweet, festive holidays, it is time to take stock of what to bring forward, and perhaps what to leave behind.

One Comment Tags: " Ebey's Landing, "The Turning", in search of truth and beauty, Joni Takanikos, New Year resolutions, Whidbey poet, WLM blogs

Lockdown Retreat for writers opens early bird registration

by Patricia Duff in Literary, Member News
Posted on: January 2, 2014 7:57 pm - Permalink

Early-bird registration is open through Jan. 15 for the 20 spaces available to attend the Whidbey Island Writers Association’s popular Writers Lockdown Retreat set for March 14 to 16 at Coupeville’s Captain Whidbey Inn, along with pre-retreat events offered on Thursday, March 13. This year’s retreat ist titled “First Write the Book! It’s all in the Craft,”and […]

No Comments

Minding the Sky on a moonlit solstice

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Culinary, Literary, Music, Visual Art, Winery
Posted on: December 20, 2013 6:36 am - Permalink

The sun will rise again and stay a little bit longer every day, once we just get past this one hard part — the longest night.

4 Comments Tags: breathing Whidbey, gratitude Whidbey, Judith Walcutt, Minding the Sky, shopping local, shopping season blues, Whidbey Island community, Winter Solstice, WLM blogs

An editor, the arts and a precipice at Whidbey Life Magazine

by Patricia Duff in Blogs, Culinary, Literary, Music, Theater and Dance, Video, Visual Art, Winery
Posted on: December 11, 2013 5:50 pm - Permalink

I’m also pretty sure that if WLM was suddenly not available it would be missed.

5 Comments Tags: An editor, the arts and a precipice at Whidbey Life Magazine

WLM Handy List — Merry, happy island of activity

by Patricia Duff in Culinary, Literary, More Stories, Music, Spotlight, Theater and Dance, Visual Art, Winery
Posted on: December 8, 2013 11:28 am - Permalink

“Miss Matilda” gets into the holiday spirit at the Langley Holiday Parade. / David Welton photo

No Comments Tags: holiday events Whidbey, music Whidbey, Whidbey food, Whidbey holiday shopping, Whidbey listings, WLM handy list

The Storied Stylist and the propitious dinner plate

by Patricia Duff in Blogs, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: November 27, 2013 1:22 pm - Permalink

What better way to torment your abuser then to force them to listen to a poem that YOU wrote about them?

2 Comments Tags: Julie Cunha, mid-century dinner plates, stoneware, The Storied Stylist, Whidbey designer, WLM blogs

Minding the Sky while ironing it out

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: November 26, 2013 10:49 pm - Permalink

So you see, Candace has had a subtly huge influence on the entire direction of my life and she has helped me iron out so many wrinkles in so many challenging situations, I can’t begin to recount them all.

12 Comments

Six Bowls Project celebrates community, collaboration, caring

by Penny Webb in Culinary, Literary, More Stories, Visual Art
Posted on: November 13, 2013 4:07 pm - Permalink

Perhaps the bowl will encourage a participant to think about how good it feels to have a bowl brimming with abundance, and how hard it can be when that bowl is empty.

One Comment Tags: abundance, bowls, Food, Penny Bauer, Six Bowls Project, Whidbey artists, Whidbey writers

The Creativity Café − That time of year

by Deb Lund in Blogs, Literary, Music, Visual Art
Posted on: November 8, 2013 6:30 am - Permalink

You true extroverts out there may not have a clue what I’m saying. Your dance card is full, and you’re ready to boogie. The rest of us love the idea of holidays, winter sports, celebrations, nostalgia and rituals. We live for the music, the smells, the sights, the eggnog.

4 Comments Tags: Deb Lund, holiday rush, holiday shopping Whidbey, New Year's Whidbey, slow down holidays, The Creativity Cafe

In Search of Truth and Beauty ─ Drawing back the veil in November

by Patricia Duff in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: November 1, 2013 6:46 am - Permalink

Death is all around us now in nature. Even as we pluck the apples from the tree, we understand that death is part of the harvest. The apple lived while it stayed connected to the tree. Now it lives in us.

4 Comments Tags: All Souls Eve, Death, Dia de los Muertos, Halloween, Samhain, Spirit world Whidbey

Whidbey Island Writers Conference welcomes literary lights

by Patricia Duff in Festivals, Literary, More Stories
Posted on: October 21, 2013 5:00 pm - Permalink

Another highly anticipated event this year is “Write Night” at Jenne Farms on Saturday, Oct. 26 and is open to the general public to help support NILA’s Youth Writing Program.

2 Comments Tags: Northwest Institute for Literary Arts, Whidbey Island Writers Conference, Whidbey writers, Write Night Party

Novel features Whidbey Island, geoducks and mid-life sex

by Penny Webb in Literary, More Stories, Spotlight
Posted on: October 21, 2013 3:19 pm - Permalink

“I wanted to write a book that would honor Whidbey, and a book that would show that people in their 40s still have a pulse.”

No Comments Tags: Daisy Prescott, Geoducks are for Lovers, Whidbey books, Whidbey romance

Duff ’n Stuff ─ Who knew poetry can make corporate leaders better at their jobs?

by Patricia Duff in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: October 18, 2013 9:45 pm - Permalink

They might even find their work infused with more surprise, meaning and beauty.

2 Comments Tags: business and poetry, corporate leaders and poetry, Duff 'n Stuff, Poetry

One more library-love blog from the Free-Range Reader

by ziagipson in Blogs, Literary, Visual Art
Posted on: October 11, 2013 9:57 pm - Permalink

Our Sno-Isle system shows a 185 records searching Interweave. “Quilting Modern: Techniques and Projects for Improvisational Quilts” from Interweave is on my table as I write this.

No Comments Tags: books, libraries, search by publisher, Zia Gipson

Feed body and soul with Hedgebrook’s new cookbook

by Susan Wenzel in Culinary, Feature, Literary, More Stories, Spotlight
Posted on: October 9, 2013 5:55 pm - Permalink

“I have always loved to cook and feed people. And here I meet the best people and cook for them in the best kitchen with the best ingredients.”

One Comment Tags: Hedgebrook Cookbook, Hedgebrook writers, SheWrites Press, Whidbey writers

Minding the Sky | Making jam while the fruit is ripe

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Culinary, Literary
Posted on: October 4, 2013 6:33 am - Permalink

I have known these plums since they were blossoms ─ like frosting on birthday cake and full of the gasping beauty of the spring.

3 Comments Tags: fruit, Gleaning, making jam, Whidbey Island fruit, Whidbey Island jam

Sue the Screenwriter cheers on indie filmmakers

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: September 27, 2013 6:44 am - Permalink

Another reason I love indies is because I always feel I’m an active collaborator in the production process.

2 Comments Tags: indie films, screenwriter, Whidbey filmmakers

Fingers crossed for two local screenwriters

by Patricia Duff in Literary, More Stories, Spotlight
Posted on: September 16, 2013 5:00 pm - Permalink

As a team, these writers bounce off each other and Woods said she is thankful that she has Kelman’s endless energy for ideas.

No Comments

Chart a course through downtown Coupeville at the Art of the Boat

by Penny Webb in Festivals, Literary, Music, Spotlight, Visual Art
Posted on: September 11, 2013 5:00 pm - Permalink

To get underway, pick up your Art of the Boat Chart starting at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday at the Pacific Northwest Art School, 15 NW Birch St. in Coupeville.

No Comments Tags: art, Boat-themed art, Coupeville Art of the Boat

Free Range Reader: Bookshelves and what’s on them

by Patricia Duff in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: August 16, 2013 10:03 pm - Permalink

In any case, it’s fun to see who owns (and has kept) which books.

No Comments

Minding the Sky while cleaning the closets

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: May 24, 2013 6:30 am - Permalink

I remember their tiny feet inside me, kicking to get out, followed by bigger feet in red, salt-water sandals, splashing in the low tides of Double Bluff …

No Comments

Sue the Screenwriter on sending her work off the cliff of judgement

by Suzanne Kelman in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: February 1, 2013 11:30 am - Permalink

When I was in my 20s, I had an incredible experience while I was working and living in Spain. I drove out to the lakes in mountains of southern Spain and leapt from a high cliff into the clear blue waters 20 feet below.

No Comments

Minding the Sky | The sea sends a message back by mail

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: January 19, 2013 6:41 am - Permalink

This is of me and this is of you—who finds this poem on a shore near or far—we are the bottle, we are the message, we are the message in the bottle.

No Comments

New ‘Free-Range Reader’ blogger talks about library love and great book finds

by ziagipson in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: December 28, 2012 5:00 am - Permalink

Libraries have always been at the center of my free-range reading universe.

No Comments

Judith Walcutt contemplates cycles and serendipity in ‘Minding the Sky’

by Judith Walcutt in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: December 21, 2012 5:00 am - Permalink

When it began, the Water Dragon caused a huge energetic change for me almost immediately.

No Comments

In Search of Truth and Beauty, with memories of the desert and Glitter Gulch

by Joni Takanikos in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: November 16, 2012 8:00 am - Permalink

But now I proudly admit that Vegas was the main character that influenced my early years.

No Comments

‘Writer at her Work’ honors veterans and the pursuit of literary freedom

by Molly Cook in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: November 9, 2012 7:45 am - Permalink

In a couple of days, we’ll celebrate Veteran’s Day which began as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, a grim and costly battle for liberty, the War to End All Wars. Since then, of course, we’ve seen more wars than we’d like to remember, all in the name of liberty.

No Comments

Anne Belov, $$$ from the Cosmos …

by Anne Belov in Blogs, Literary
Posted on: October 18, 2012 8:00 am - Permalink

Having just completed the second of my successful Kickstarter campaigns, I thought it would make a good topic for this post. Wait a minute, hold the phone…just what in the heck is Kickstarter?

No Comments
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