Category: Neighborhood

CONTENTS 6/8/2020
Free Testing For Protesters
Excerpt From Dr Betsy Brown, MD
Our Next Step
Chalk Photo Posting Service?
Planning For Chalk
Local Sources For Chalk
    Dakota Art
    Launching Success
    Yeagers (All Out)
    Joann’s
    Tell Me Where You Find More!
Online Kid’s Cooking Classes
Seeking Piano For Musical Home
Missing Easel
Radio Free Fl!p: For What It’s Worth

FREE TESTING FOR PROTESTERS

Please, if you attended one of the large public gatherings last week, consider getting tested for Covid as soon as possible. This is also about taking care of all of us. The virus doesn’t care what our intentions are. Masks help, but aren’t foolproof and we don’t want to spread the pandemic. If your doctor won’t recommend you for testing here, on the basis of having been in a very large group of people, Skagit County department of health is doing drive-through testing for anyone who wants it. No insurance or doctor’s prescription needed. You can live anywhere in Washington State. If you have insurance or a social security card, take your cards along. But Skagit will test you even if you don’t have them. The self-tests they are using are far less painful than the ones you’ve heard about.

https://www.skagitcounty.net/Departments/HealthDiseases/coronavirusdriveup.htm

EXCERPT FROM DR BETSY BROWN, MD

We … know more clearly that much of the chatter on social media can be wrong. Pushing false information is truly another pandemic. You may be spreading mis-information. I may be too! Remember, recommendations change as we learn more about the virus, which can make mis-information easier to spread. I recommend looking at these couple of sites to help you learn to recognize what is false, what is reliable, and what is misleading: Infodemic Blog and Coronavirus Misinformation Tracking Center from newsguardtech.com.

Yes, things seem to have slowed and life is re-opening, but this ain’t over yet.

https://betsybrownmd.substack.com/

OUR NEXT STEP

I think the key task for White people at this point is to reach out to other White people, and especially to our officials. Even a short written or emailed note. Personal, one on one, not form letters or petitions. Warm in tone. Clear on actions that would be helpful. You can read up on helpful actions being taken in many places online. And reach out to listen to people who may not agree with you. Listen to try to understand a different viewpoint, and to care about another hurting heart. Listening is probably the hardest task ahead, and the most important. And it takes a long, long time. We don’t have to wait to make changes, but if we don’t build the relationships, our changes can’t last. Please, let’s be neighbors. Let’s explore what values we hold in common. Thank you!  Love/Fl!p

CHALK PHOTO POSTING SERVICE?

I need advice! It turns out to be not-so-simple to post your Chalk photos online in a way that makes them easy to attach to your address. Or at least the answer is not obvious. Can anyone advise me on this one? I really want to be able to take a virtual chalk tour! Call me at 360-671-4511. If you don’t know, but you might know someone who would know, please call them and then tell me. OK? Thanks!

PLANNING FOR CHALK

Please, please, please buy your chalk now while there is still time for local shops to get in more. And know that the deep, vibrant colors cost more. The chalk that was used for the Downtown Chalk Festival was called Prang Freart. Dakota has about 30 sets of that. If you know of anyplace else in town that has it, please let me know. Actually, if you find any place in town that has chalk at all, please let me know.

Here’s a best guess for how much chalk or space you should plan for:

When the city did the chalk art festival the allotted spaces were about 5 or 6 feet square. So, splitting the difference, that makes the squares just over 30 square feet.

Usually the Freart chalk was enough to do that and folks usually had left over chalk.

We really don’t know how far the smaller sticks will go. A lot is going to depend on the design, whether there are open spaces or if large areas are going to be filled in.

LOCAL SOURCES FOR CHALK

DAKOTA ART

Alan Weydert was a Keesling Street neighbor for decades. He has been so helpful! He owns Dakota Art, downtown on Cornwall Ave. They have curbside pickup. There’s a chance they will re-open for walk-in later this week, but you should phone ahead! 

Hours for now are: 10am to 5 pm, Monday – Friday.
Store phone is 360-676-8918.
1322 Cornwall Ave
dakobell@gmail.com
Email is fine, it might take us an hour or so to respond. Any emails that come in after 5pm on Friday won’t be answered until Monday.

Here’s what he’s got:

I’ve been working with Flip on finding sidewalk chalk. Apparently, sidewalk chalk is a big item now and our supplier is out until August.

We have a very small amount of Crayola chalk, which would be the cheapest (box of 12= $3.32, box of 16=$4.45, box of 24=$5.97). We do have about 30 boxes of Prang Freart chalk, which is what was used years back when there was a downtown chalk festival put on by Allied Arts. These list for $23.21 but our price is $18.95. These sticks are 1″d. x 4″. and come 12 colors to a set.

Both the Crayola and the Prang are out of stock at our supplier, so what we have is all there is available.

We did bring in some sets of kids chalk pastels. These are sticks that are about 3/8″ square and about 3″ long. They are definitely more colorful than the Crayola, but being smaller they will wear down quicker.

We brought in sets that contain 24 colors. They list at $10.99 but we can sell for $6.95. It looks like our supplier has a decent amount on hand, I brought in 24 sets on our last order to start with.

We also brought in some 12 and 24 color sets of basically the same thing but in a slightly higher grade: 12 color set at $7.95 and a 24 color set at 13.95. 

One thing that we do have is aerosol chalk in a spray can. We brought it in years ago and it never really sold. I’m going to take a can home to test and see if it still viable. They were selling for $12.95 but we marked them down to $5.50/can. These would be great for large areas and they do wash off with a hose pretty easily, although you might need to use a brush or broom to loosen a bit. These might not be the best for younger children to use… they are still an aerosol with all of the aerosol warnings.

We don’t have a washable tempera, I’ve never been happy with the colors available, but I can order it in. We’re out currently, but we usually have 8 oz plastic squeeze bottles. They are $1.95 each.

LAUNCHING SUCCESS

We have 3 different chalk sets:
A bucket of 20 pieces for $5.99
A Sweet shop set and an ice cream set for $26.99
The sets for $26.99 are much more decorative and fun (by Melissa and Doug)
The bucket is basic sidewalk chalk from Toysmith.

Washable paint~
We sell it by the bottle (16oz) for $3.99
We also have a crayola set of 6 colors (2oz each) for $5.99

Customers can shop in store from 11-4 Monday-Sat, order online for free delivery or curbside pickup, call us @ 360-527-2641 and we can take the order over the phone.

We are willing to do whatever customers feel comfortable with!
Jen Zimmermann, Owner
jen@launchingsuccess.com
133 Prince Ave. Bellingham WA 98226
360-527-2641
www.launchingsuccess.com

YEAGERS

Is out and can’t get more in time.

JOANN’S

Just a few sets of Crayola chalks in the store. They’re open. Call before you go.

TELL ME WHERE YOU FIND MORE!

Fl!p@columbianeighborhood.org

ONLINE COOKING CLASSES
COMMON THREADS FARM

Pay what you can online cooking classes for kids for the month of June. Sign your kids up to make one of these simple, healthy, and tasty recipes (you can join too!): Rainbow Rice (6/12) Fruit & Veggie Rolls (6/16) Chickpea Curry (6/19) Veggie Sushi (6/23) Root Veggie Latkes (6/26) Plant Part Sandwich (6/30) Are you thinking about gardening for the first time this year and not sure where to start? Have you been gardening for a while but still have questions? If you would like some personalized help with local knowledge, we’d love to support you!  Farmer Joe will be available online on Wednesday mornings (6/17, 6/24, and 7/1) 9:00am-9:30am to answer garden-related, food-growing questions big and small. No question is too basic! Visit our website to sign-up for free.

SEEKING PIANO FOR MUSICAL HOME

Hello! Our names are Samantha and Alex and we are new to the Columbia neighborhood. We are serious musicians seeking an upright piano. We are looking for a piano that’s in good working condition. We are happy to have it tuned and are willing to hire movers. Please contact us at samanthasinai@gmail.com

MISSING EASEL

Black easel as on the link https://www.amazon.com/Ohuhu-Aluminum-Carrying-Table-top-Adjustable/dp/B0148F5TRQ/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=artist+easel&qid=1588535846&sr=8-6 left at Port of Bellingham on 7 June, with an oil painting. Please contact me on 360 223 5537 if you have it with you. Thank you, Alaya Rousseau

RADIO FREE FL!P: FOR WHAT IT’S WORTH

Del MacRory Band & Friends play an old Buffalo Springfield song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIdfulZ1c5c&feature=youtu.be

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511 cell/text  flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone.

CONTENTS 6/7/2020
Love Is Not The Answer
Washington State Supreme Court
Covid Testing & The Rally
Home For Dead Lawn Mowers
Free “Loft Bed”
Free Fill Dirt
Tree Service Shout Out
Looking For A Cement Contractor
Fun Chalk Videos
Minority-Owned Businesses In Bellingham
Family Looking For A Rental
Radio Free Fl!p: Turning Towards The Morning

LOVE IS NOT THE ANSWER

My favorite quote from Martin Luther King Jr:

Love is not the answer; Love is the assignment.

WASHINGTON STATE SUPREME COURT

Unanimous open letter calling on judicial, legal community to work together on racial justice. “The devaluation and degradation of black lives is not a recent event. It is a persistent and systemic injustice that predates this nation’s founding.  But recent events have brought to the forefront of our collective consciousness a painful fact that is, for too many of our citizens, common knowledge: the injustices faced by black Americans are not relics of the past…

The legal community must recognize that we all bear responsibility for this on-going injustice, and that we are capable If taking steps to address it, if only we have the courage and the will.”

http://www.courts.wa.gov/newsinfo/?fa=newsinfo.pressdetail&newsid=35481

COVID TESTING & THE RALLY

Friday I listened to a part of a press conference on KUOW with the Seattle mayor and the heads of the police and fire department. There were several issues covered. But the one I want to discuss with you is about the Covid-19 testing policy in Seattle just instituted. They encouraged everyone who has been involved in the demonstrations to be tested and people can do that for free and without a doctor’s referral and without symptoms. People have to sign up for a time however. I think we should have that same option in Bellingham to keep on top of what is going on.  I have written an email to Unified Command suggesting this and they say they will consider it. But I wonder if it would help if more people asked. ~ Sidney Anderson

[I can also imagine asking demonstrators to self-quarantine for some days if possible. I know some are trapped in essential jobs and cannot do so. That’s where testing seems particularly important. Testing can give false negatives, but rarely false positives. ~Fl!p]

HOME FOR DEAD LAWN MOWERS

My neighbor and his 8th grade boys (twins) are into small engines. They just fixed my lawn mower and we talked about selling rebuilt mowers (I had already bought a new one, doh) in the hood with the proceeds going to social justice initiatives. Can you alert the flip-kins that we’d love all dead lawnmowers in the hood?
Isaac Blum
2518 Elizabeth Street
isaacmblum@gmail.com

FREE “LOFT BED” (THAT USED TO BE A BUNK BED)

We’d love to find a home for it before taking it away. It’s been used it as a loft bed for years to create space in a bedroom. Wish we could depart with it in it’s original state of being a bunk bed, but unable to locate the bottom railing. If interested, text me. We’ll have it until tomorrow (6/8).
Tanya High
(360) 739-4840

FREE FILL DIRT

Free fill dirt/soil with some sod clumps – for yard project, fill…. etc. Easily accessible for pick up in ally behind 2326 Victor St.
Arielle Stein
360-540-4847

TREE SERVICE SHOUT OUT

Marcus Mindlin, owner of Dean’s Tree Service. Contact +1 (360) 527-6733 if you want a tree guy from the neighborhood. Thank you ~ Alaya Rousseau

LOOKING FOR A CEMENT CONTRACTOR

Pathway around the house has been dug and crushed gravel spread. It’s time for a reliable Cement Contractor to do their magic along with a few dry days. Any suggestions for a contractor that accepts small jobs and does good exposed aggregate work?  City permit already issued.

~ Kristen Nelson, Victor Street, Knelson2815@gmail.com or text 360-223-2286

FUN CHALK VIDEOS

I know you’re planning a Chalk Art day in your neighborhood, and I thought these videos might be inspiring to those planning to participate!
~ Anji Citron

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBOpo6J3RdM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LwfCEkMqEw

[If you couldn’t imagine doing something like this, well neither can I! But we can go out a play with chalk and have fun! Will you join me? Did you get your chalk yet? Love/Fl!p]

MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESSES IN BELLINGHAM

(not complete list—there are no doubt more! from Nancy Moore)

FOOD & DRINK

Ambo Ethiopian Cuisine—902 N. State St, Suite 104, 360-927-8714, FB page says they were opening June 3, 11 am-2 pm and 5-7 pm.  “For nine years, Mulunesh Belay has been a beloved fixture at the Bellingham Farmer’s Market, serving authentic Ethiopian cuisine. Mulu first learned to cook when she was five years old, at her mother’s knee, in the village of Gindeberet, Ethiopia. She uses traditional spices and her own recipes to bring her country’s food to everyone.” Just in October 2019 Mulu signed the lease on her first restaurant storefront. No website.

Brandywine Kitchen—sustainable, locally based food, “from seed to plate,” eclectic menu, providing pickup or delivered meals—

https://brandywinekitchen.com

Calypso Kitchen— authentic Caribbean food to heat and eat; order by Sunday midnight for pickup or delivery on Tues—

https://calypso.kitchen

DownTime Taps—Ferndale, first self-serve taproom in the state, 32 taps for beer, wine, or cider—

https://www.downtimetaps.com/#happenings

Guud Bowls—they cook, package, and deliver fresh bowls of all gluten-free food, you heat and eat. There is no storefront, delivery only, some family-sized pan options— https://www.guudbowls.com

HAIR & BEAUTY

Busy B’s Barber Shop & Salon—family-owned, five barbers for all hair types— https://busy-bs-barber-shop-salon.business.site

Zora’s Styling Salon and Spa—haircuts, hair and lash extensions, color, waxing, anti-aging facials, body contouring, ultrasound face lifts — https://www.zorasstylingsalon.com

OTHER

Cool Runnings Construction LLC—360-399-8014 (no website)

David Vaughns—musical accompanist, drummer, Theater/Dance Dept, WWU, no contact information.

Mo’s Parlor—anime nights, workshops, downloadable designs, consultations— https://www.mosparlor.com

Myne Candle Co—small-batch candles hand poured with soy wax and phthalate free oils— https://www.instagram.com/mynecandleco/

Northwest Drone Pros—a “NW WA flying camera company” providing professional aerial imagery (photos or videos) for mapping or for the real estate industry, or any needs—

https://www.northwestdronepros.com

FAMILY LOOKING FOR A RENTAL

Friends of ours, a wonderful family of five is looking to relocate from Seattle. They are looking to rent a home in the Columbia neighborhood to start out in. They are not in a hurry so if something is available down the line, that’s great too. If anyone knows of a nice rental house available with at least three bedrooms and two baths let me know.
Thank you,
Lindsey Escher
Text: 206-661-6762
West & Jefferson

RADIO FREE FL!P: TURNING TOWARDS THE MORNING

Written & sung by Gordon Bok

Gordon didn’t write this song for the mid-summer season, but my heart feels like a great turning seems to have begun, an awakening of hope and of many people reaching for their courage. There can be grief and fear as a part of it all as well. And kindness in response. Please choose kindness.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xU1FUgcv1Lc

Love/Fl!p Breskin 360-671-4511 flip@columbianeighborhood.org
If you’d like me to post something, please send me an email. If it’s urgent, phone. Thanks!

CONTENTS 6/6/2020
Today’s Solidarity Rally
Solidarity Follow-Up
Phase Four For Elders
Businesses Reopening In Phase Two
Found Driver’s License Instruction Permit
Zoom Song Parody
Child’s Lonely Red Shoe
Small Rental Wanted
Radio Free Fl!p:

TODAY’S SOLIDARITY RALLY

It was very large; it was peaceful; most of the people attending wore masks and tried to social distance. I have received interesting suggestions for follow-up action on all our parts. If change is to come, follow up action will be required. I am reading and thinking about what I’ve received, and will be sharing the ones that look most effective to me, in the days to come. This is a call for us to reach for the highest ideals that our country was founded upon: Liberty And Justice For All.  It is a moment for us to leave none of our neighbors behind. To listen to one another’s concerns with open hearts, reaching for understanding and clarity, with respect and compassion. Even through masks and over zoom…

The Herald has detailed coverage of today’s rally:

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article243307551.html

SOLIDARITY FOLLOW-UP

Also from the Herald

Bellingham’s Saturday Peaceful Solidarity Rally organizers  suggested that those wanting to donate to the event should instead donate to these organizations and support BIPOC-owned businesses all the time not just today or next week.

▪ NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund at naacpldf.org.
▪ Movement For Black Lives at m4bl.org.
▪ Whatcom Human Rights Task Force at whrtf.org.
▪ Community to Community, or C2C, at foodjustice.org.
▪ Showing Up for Racial Justice at showingupforracialjustice.org.
▪ Northwest Community Bail Fund at nwcombailfund.org.

Julina Pyanoe provided this list of black-owned local businesses to The Herald via Facebook: Brandywine Kitchen, BusyB’s Barbershop, Calypso Kitchen, Cool Runnings Construction, Cross Auto Detail, Guud Bowls, MYNE Candle Co., Poindexter Detailing, Pure Fitness Martial Arts, Ambo Ethiopian Cuisine and Zorganics.

PHASE FOUR FOR ELDERS

Unfortunately it is not until Phase 4 that people who are part of vulnerable populations should consider leaving home except for essential trips – this includes those over age 60, and those with serious medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and lowered or compromised  immune systems, as well as women who are pregnant. Not an easy thing to do. For those of you who can now go out and socialize a bit,  please be sure to wear masks to protect your neighbors from your coughs, sneezes and other droplets. You can’t tell by looking at someone if they are contagious before they have symptoms, or are infected but not symptomatic.

Thank you all for your hellos and smiles as you pass by! ~ Joy Dunne, Jefferson Street

HERALD COVERAGE OF BUSINESSES REOPENING IN PHASE TWO

Their coverage of Covid related news is still provided at no charge. There is a lot of big local news today:

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/

FOUND DRIVER’S LICENSE INSTRUCTION PERMIT

Found outside near Walnut street. Last name Mindlin. If you know a young driver with that last name, please let him know. Contact Alaya Rousseau on 360 223 5537.

ZOOM SONG PARODY

I’ve been spending this weekend with over 90 women at workshop, over Zoom. This came to me. Hat tip to Malvina Reynolds!

Little boxes on the laptop
Little boxes over cyberspace
Little boxes, Little boxes, Little boxes, each with names
Some with long hair, or with grey hair,
Or with doggies or with kitty cats
And we get to notice how they live at home
And we love them just the same

CHILD’S LONELY RED SHOE

We found a child’s red shoe at the end of Jefferson Street this evening and it is very lonely for its mate!  If your child is missing a shoe, please text me a picture of the mate, and I can contact you if we have a match!!!! It looks like a fairly new, nice shoe! We hope to reunite the pair soon!
Pat Lundquist
Jefferson Street
360-515-6816

SMALL RENTAL WANTED

Single-mama-by-choice and the most wonderful 13-month-old are looking for a space of their own —

ideally in community. I’m dreaming of something like a 750-square-foot backyard cottage with lots of light, or maybe a sweet little one-bedroom apartment in a house with another family. I’ve got multiple friends in town who live in these sorts of situations and pay $750, so I know they’re out there… Or we could do a 2-bedroom for more like $1250. Email jennabeanveatch@gmail.com. ~ Jenna Veatch

RADIO FREE FL!P: ONE HEART AT A TIME

I’m re-posting a song I wrote decades ago. I had attended an anti-war march in Seattle. It was huge, but I wondered, what if all those people who hit the streets went to listen to their neighbors? To listen with great curiosity, seeking to understand different viewpoint and what led to those viewpoints.  To get to know each other. To listen with respect. To listen bravely to things we disagree about. To connect heart to heart. It’s hard to do, to have those conversations and not give up on each other. But at least in my own life, I’ve found it to be worth it. Here’s the song I wrote about it:

https://www.riseupandsing.org/song_video/song_video/3251

CONTENTS 6/5/2020
Peaceful Solidarity Rally For Justice
Whatcom Phase Two
March To Truth: Betsy Brown MD
Virtual Chalk Tour
Lawn Care
Radio Free Fl!p: Nina Simone
  I Wish I Knew How It Feels To Be Free

PEACEFUL SOLIDARITY RALLY FOR JUSTICE

Saturday June 6 at 3 PM – 5 PM at Maritime Heritage Park

Join the peaceful protest rally, organized by black community leaders. Columbia neighbors are invited to show solidarity by meeting at Elizabeth Park at 2:15, and at 2:30 we will walk together to Maritime Park, following a 10ftX10ft. banner that says Black Lives Matter.
Jill MacIntyre Witt, Walnut St.

The organizers request that everyone bring masks, hand sanitizers, and be aware of social distancing. Please do that! The park is a large area. Please spread out in it as best you can.

I am repeating this quote from yesterday, because it helped me understand why so many people who have been faithfully staying home for months, may be coming out for these rallies:  “…perhaps it is proof of the fundamental decency of ordinary people…that maybe people are not willing to risk other people’s lives for money, but when other people may lose their lives if they do not act, they rise to the call of action…in terms of standing up for civil rights, as a nation…” ~Claus Joens

WHATCOM PHASE TWO

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article243249861.html

“It’s possible Whatcom County could see a return to Phase 1 restrictions if there is a significant increase in cases or other benchmarks are not maintained,” the statement said. “Every resident of Whatcom County has a role to play in making Phase 2 successful and allowing our community to move to Phase 3 as quickly as possible.”

Phase 2 will allow these activities, according to the Health Department:

▪ Social gatherings — inside or outside — with no more than five people from outside your household per week.

▪ More manufacturing and construction, domestic services, retail stores, real estate. services, professional services, nail salons and barbers, with some restrictions.

▪ Restaurants can open at 50% capacity but without bar seating.

Practices that should continue in Phase 2, according to the Health Department:

▪ Hand-washing and sanitizing.

▪ Physical distancing, remaining 6 feet away from others.

▪ Wearing a mask in public spaces.

▪ Staying home and away from others with any symptoms of illness.

In response to the Phase 2 approval, both the Bellingham Public Library and the Whatcom County Library System said they plan to begin curbside pickup for new material for their patrons starting June 15.

If you’re still feeling cautious, British Columbia has started their reopening with Double Your Bubble. Their process is to encourage households that have been staying home to open up to just one other household that has also been staying home. I think of it as Safe Start. Love/Fl!p

MARCH TO TRUTH

From Betsy Brown MD
From Seattle

Tomorrow morning after a long week, I am getting up early to go back downtown to meet up with local physicians and health care workers to march from our county hospital/trauma center to the Mayor’s office to show our support for the Black Lives Matter protests. We are all learning right now. What the COVID-19 pandemic has made even more clear to me are the health disparities between people of color and others. The data in the this article in the New England Journal of Medicine is damning. In Louisiana, 30% of the population is black but in this group of patients almost 77% of people with COVID-19 were black and 70.6% people who died were black. However, when they controlled for sociodemographic data, like public insurance and living in a poorer area, as well things like obesity and other conditions, blacks were no more likely to die than whites. The conditions that caused risk are often cause by poverty and living conditions, but not by the medical risk of race. In a pandemic, weakness are laid bare. Systemic racism becomes visible. . .

…I am learning more, and agree with our march tomorrow in support of learning about and facing our own racism. Our march in the morning is organized by University of Washington physicians who wrote an open letter (link below) advocating a non-racist response to the demonstrations. It directly called out the lethal dangers of white supremacy and the difference in response to the earlier white armed protestors. More than 1200 public health professionals and physicians signed it. These efforts have helped the health department shift to supporting the protests, despite the risks of the Coronavirus. They called for the police to stop the use of teargas because it can increase transmission of the coronavirus and today the Chief of Police announced the ban, recognizing that the vast majority of protesters are peaceful. Looting was not done by the demonstrators.

[It’s worth reading her whole blog tonight.]

https://betsybrownmd.substack.com/

VIRTUAL CHALK TOUR

Jonny has been hard at work on internet support for the Chalk Festival! YES! It looks like we’ll be able to upload our photos of our own Chalk (and Chalkers?), linked to our location, so shut-in neighbors can still come see. And we’ll all have plenty of time to see all the chalk. Our neighborhood is really pretty big: 1700 houses! If a whole lot of us join in, it will help if we can take weeks to see it all.

Jonny added a place on the registration form where neighbors can donate the sidewalk in front of their own house if they don’t plan to chalk on it.

Hey! Does anybody have a drone with a good camera? It might be cool to get a bird’s eye view of our joyful sidewalks.

Yes, I’m still making this up as I go along, but now other people are starting to make it up too. I’m pretty excited! And Zeke’s cousin sent another big box of chalk. And a neighbor dropped off an envelope with a donation to get still more chalk. I’m starting to believe that if you can’t find chalk, we may actually be able to come up with enough for everyone!

LAWN CARE

My son and two friends are feeling entrepreneurial.

Grass too tall? Give us a call!

Three Whatcom Middle School students are ready to mow your lawn and help with other yard work.  We will bring our own equipment and will abide by safety standards.  Email us at lawncare272@gmail.com or call at 360-410-2474.  Prices negotiable. ~ Noah Bandstra, Soren Vanyo and Archer Burns.

~ Jessica Bandstra

RADIO FREE FL!P: NINA SIMONE

I Wish I Knew How It Feels To Be Free

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dlrXCYrNYI

CONTENTS 6/4/2020
From Betsy Brown, MD
Peaceful Solidarity Rally For Justice
Big Chalk Update
Found Wallet
Window Masks?
Free Irises
Shop For Fl!p?
Radio Free Fl!p: Wayfaring Stranger

FROM BETSY BROWN, MD

[Betsy is among my most trusted sources. She’s a doctor in Seattle. I subscribe to her daily blog.]

We are not the only medical organization that saw a drop off in visits with the pandemic. Many practices and hospitals are in a world of financial hurt. The American medical system is not known for its efficiencies or for being economical. Many primary care clinics are struggling now, as are hospitals, especially in rural areas. Many will not survive because their income is based on actually seeing patients. Don’t blame the doctors. It is a ragged and inequitable system. Primary care providers also have the lowest income and often work with a shoestring budget, with little room for obstacles. Nothing like a pandemic to shine a light on the needs for healthcare reform. The system is not sustainable and has so much more potential.

Delay in care is also increasing costs to people’s health because life threatening conditions are being ignored and care is delayed. One thing to know is that right now, anyway, ER’s and clinics are some of the safest places to be, as the number of infections decrease. That will change as numbers increase over the next few weeks, with more opening up and exposures. There will be hot spots which can change county to county, so pay attention to what your local health department is telling you. If you have been ignoring a health issue waiting for the pandemic to clear, now is a window of opportunity, so call your doctor’s office. They will be happy to see you or set up a video visit.

And a pediatrician weighs in on children playing together again.

betsybrownmd@substack.com

PEACEFUL SOLIDARITY RALLY FOR JUSTICE

Saturday, June 6 at 3 – 5 PM
Maritime Heritage Park

The organizers request that everyone bring masks, hand sanitizers, and be aware of social distancing. Please do that! The park is a large area. Please please spread out in it as best you can. I found this quote today, and I like it:  “…perhaps it is proof of the fundamental decency if ordinary people…that maybe people are not willing to risk other people’s lives for money, but when other people may lose their lives if they do not act, they rise to the call of action…in terms of standing up for civil rights, as a nation…” ~Claus Joens

BIG CHALK UPDATE

Wow! There was a lot going on with the Chalk Festival today. The Eldridge Society let me know this morning that they will donate up to $300 towards chalk! I’m searching for more chalk. If you hear of a source, even online, please let me know right away!

And Marla Bronstein (who runs the Elizabeth Park Summer Concerts (Thursdays at 6 PM, starting later this month – online this year) will be hosting Chalk Talk! Short-short video discussions with local dignitaries about our festival. Marla is a hoot! She has already written to lots of potential interviewees. I can’t wait to hear their discussions! I’ll be posting links here.

Marla informed me that I was responsible to come up with theme music (background) for her interviews. And the music had to be out-of-copyright. As I was poking around for music, Marla emailed me a photo, article, and video about Alton Adams, a Black conductor & composer who was good friends with John Phillip Sousa in the early-to-mid 1900s. (Fourth of July, people!) And Adams shares Marla’s birthday! So Zeke sat right down and figured out how to play one of Adams’ marching band pieces on his mandolin. I joined him on guitar, and by this evening we had a goofy video of me and Zeke in our St Pepper-style fancy Sedentary Band uniforms, wrestling with one of Adam’s best known marches. We didn’t exactly loose…

And Walnut Street neighbor and graphic artist (and poet) Alaya Rousseau created a lovely hand-drawn postcard that we will copy and attach to each of the 130-some chalk sets waiting in my front entry already. Alaya’s inspired artwork includes directions for how to sign up and be part of the Chalk Festival.

And Jonny Kemp says the website and sign-up form that he’s building for the Chalk Festival is coming right along.  We may even be able to upload photos of our Chalk, connected to our addresses, so shut-in neighbors (like me) can still take a virtual tour!

We are exactly a month away…

FOUND WALLET

I found a red wallet in the alley between Victor and Henry, 2300 block.  It has a library card, with a name of Naomi S.  Email me if this is yours.  That is all that was in the wallet..

~ Kristin Barber
kristinmbarber@gmail.com

WINDOW MASKS?

Do you know of anyone who is making/selling face masks for the deaf & hard of hearing with the clear plastic face piece?   I would like to buy two of them for my son and I. Thanks a bunch, ~ Lorraine Delahoyde  xcskier2@live.com

FREE IRISES

I have some iris plants to give away (out in front of 3000 Lynn St in a plastic soil bag). They’ve been in a pot & did not bloom this spring so I don’t know what color they are. They are ready to put in the ground!  ~ Jennifer Dannenberg

SHOP FOR FLIP?

Is anyone going to the Food Co-Op or Haggens Friday or Saturday? There are just a couple things we’re getting low on…  Fl!p 360-671-4511 flip@breskin.com

RADIO FREE FL!P:  WAYFARING STRANGER

Rhiannon Giddens. People make rude jokes about banjos and accordions. The joke’s on them! Real beauty shines through every time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1Z4PAZX9Bs

CONTENTS 6/3/2020
New Risk Assessment Dashboard
Survey: Passenger-Only Ferry Routes?
Eggshell Chalk Recipe
On Friendship
Fantastic Potential Renter
Radio Free Fl!p: The Boomers Are Rising Again

NEW RISK ASSESSMENT DASHBOARD

From our Victor Street neighbor, Greg Hope:

In case you have not already seen this, the state reworked their dashboard for county phase status and made it much easier to see metrics for an individual county. Simply click Whatcom Count on the map on this page.

 COVID-19 – Risk assessment dashboard

PASSENGER-ONLY FERRY ROUTES?

Survey ends tomorrow and I just heard about it now! Better late than never. Thank you Sue Kenney!

https://www.psrc.org/our-work/potential-puget-sound-passenger-only-ferry-routes-and-terminals

EGGSHELL CHALK RECIPE

I gave sidewalk chalk recipe to my niece in Corvallis Oregon … She loved it and sent this resource back to me!!!

Https://www.childrensmuseum.org/blog/real-science-eggshell-sidewalk-chalk 

Take good care
Barbara in Cordata

ON FRIENDSHIP

Now more than ever, we need to relearn the art of genuine friendship in this divided country. “[Genuine] friendship produces between us a partnership in all our interests. There is no such thing as good or bad fortune for the individual; we live in common. And no one can live happily who has regard to himself alone and transforms everything into a question of his own utility; you must live for your neighbor, if you would live for yourself.

This fellowship…holds that the human race have certain rights in common, is also of great help in cherishing the more intimate fellowship which is based on friendship… for he that has much in common with a fellow-man will have all things in common with a friend.” —Seneca

FANTASTIC POTENTIAL RENTER

[Elian is moving home!!!! (He used to live over on Spruce Street.) I absolutely adore this young man. You would be so lucky to have him! ~ Fl!p, dancing in joy around the computer]

While I’m currently in Spokane helping my parents navigate quarantine, my plans are to move back to Bellingham as soon as it’s viable. This is of course contingent on finding a compatible place with vacancy. Hopefully we are a good match!

  Bellingham has been home for the past ten years. My professional experience includes working as a crew member at Trader Joes, as a manager at Ciao Thyme, lead server at Bantam 46, a massage therapist, musician and dance instructor. While this work has transitioned due to quarantine, I remain employed by the Puget Sound Guitar Workshop, a Bellingham based non-profit that provides acoustic music experiences for adults. 

  I’m a health conscious, non-smoking/non-drinking, 30 year old male that prides himself on community, clear communication and accountability. I’ve had ample opportunities to live in cross-generational living situations and have had nothing but convivial relationships with past landlords/landladies.

  At this time, I am seeking a tiny home/private dwelling/”mother-in-law”. I’d be very interested to continue the conversation and discuss the prospects of viewing your property. Thanks for your consideration! – Elian Carbone
509-499-8095
eliancarbone@gmail.com 

RADIO FREE FL!P: THE BOOMERS ARE RISING AGAIN

Peter & Lou Berryman – Music buddies from the mid-west. My generation. Goofier songwriters than almost anyone I know except Zeke. They are married, but not to each other. They tried that early on and decided they’d rather just play music with each other.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sk7X5GpuGc

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511 cell/text  flip@columbianeighborhood.org

CONTENTS 6/2/2020
Rumor Reduction?
Chalk Show!
Columbia CSA Shares Still Available
Knowledgeable Neighbors!
  Giant Hornet Timeline
  Asian Giant Hornet Info & Trapping
  WD-40 History
Fl!p’s Pix
  New Old Time Chautauqua!
  About Chautauqua
Radio Free Fl!p: Better Times Will Come

RUMOR REDUCTION?

Wow! There sure were a lot of rumors flying around last night. I had worried neighbors bringing me their concerns. (If you were one of the, it wasn’t just you!)  I promise, if I hear about something in the neighborhood that we need to handle right away, I will tell you. If you hear more scary rumors, I invite you to call, text or email me personally instead of spreading the worry to everyone you know. And if someone calls you with a rumor, ask where they heard it. Let’s stay connected! I’m at 360-671-4511 phone or text, and flip@columbianeighborhood.org ~ Love/Fl!p

CHALK SHOW!

It looks like we will have a well-known local celebrity interviewing local dignitaries online, in support of our July 4th Chalk Festival. A Chalk Show Host! Two big boxes of chalk  arrived on our front porch today, shipped as a gift from one of Zeke’s cousins in Las Vegas. A skilled neighbor is working on an online sign-up form. Another one just sent me a recipe for home-made chalk made with eggshells. You may want to save and dry your eggshells this month. (We’re just throwing our shells in the oven to dry out gradually without help from flies.) Get the Columbia Neighborhood Fourth Of July Chalk Festival on your calendar now! At 10:00 AM we’ll get started Chalking, and from 2:00 to 5:00 PM we can go tour our neighborhood Chalk, with an online map to guide us. Is that cool? Please come out play! You don’t have to leave home to join in!

COLUMBIA CSA SHARES STILL AVAILABLE

I just heard from my CSA farmer (Community Supported Agriculture) that there are some shares still available. The pick up spot is my house on Walnut St. Pick up is Thursdays 5-7. June thru October. Will prorate to start next Thursday. Email: info@moondancefarm.net.

Great opportunity to support local organic farms. ~ Jill MacIntyre Witt, Walnut St.

KNOWLEDGEABLE  NEIGHBORS

Hornets & WD-40: We have some knowledgeable neighbors!

GIANT HORNET TIMELINE

[From Lane Morgan] I wrote a timeline entry on the giant hornet for HistoryLink.org a few weeks ago. It doesn’t cover the most recent sightings in the county, but it does have some more background on their habits, etc., and the nature of the efforts to monitor and eliminate them around here. “Thirty-eight apiaries in Whatcom County alone, spearheaded by the Mount Baker Beekeepers Association, had joined the effort to track and eliminate the invader.”

https://www.historylink.org/File/21035

It’s under a Creative Commons license and can be shared, quoted, ad infinitum with credit to historylink.org

~ Lane Morgan, Victor Street

ASIAN GIANT HORNET (Actual Name) INFO & TRAPPING

https://news.wsu.edu/2020/04/06/wsu-scientists-enlist-citizens-hunt-giant-bee-killing-hornet/

https://agr.wa.gov/departments/insects-pests-and-weeds/insects/hornets/

https://agr.wa.gov/departments/insects-pests-and-weeds/insects/hornets/trapping

My understanding is that trapping shouldn’t start until July. With the trap being 6’ to 7’ above ground. I’ve read that if you want to trap, you must follow their guidelines and mail in anything in your trap catch weekly. But I wonder if we can set traps, and just call if you have a Giant Hornet. There is a very good video with Q&A, as well as phone numbers. It sounds as though if they found a live bee they could put a tracking thing on it to find the hive. The large majority of the hives are underground. But they want anyone to report possible sightings as well. A lot of info to read through. My understanding is that Whatcom County is the first line of defense, per se. They also have a FB page. ~ Dave Lind, Lorraine Ellis Court

WD-40 HISTORY

I think I missed what started this, but here is what I learned from an executive at Rocket Chemical in San Diego (Before it became WD-40) many years ago. WD-40 is mostly good old-fashioned kerosene, which does have haz-mat issues, mixed with some other petroleum-based lubricants. It does tend to evaporate, rather quickly, but leaves behind a film of petroleum-based oils. The kerosene gives it the ability to penetrate rusted/seized parts.

 THAT was their big secret, and the key to their commercial success. People had simply forgotten about kerosene, since they had not been using kerosene lamps and stoves in their homes for a couple of generations.

That said, we should, out of concern for our environment, be very careful about spreading petroleum products about.

Cheers! ~ Brian Wall, Eldridge Ave

FL!P’S PIX

NEW OLD TIME CHAUTAUQUA
presents a
LIVE VIRTUAL VAUDEVILLE CELEBRATION

Sunday, June 14th at 6pm PDT / 9PM EDT
[I have my ticket!!! ~ Fl!p]

Ticket per screen: $20 – Brown Paper Tickets: notcvirtual.brownpapertickets.com

ZOOM ID and Password will be emailed 1 hour before the show.

  Relive the glory days of vaudeville through an evening that combines circus, music, magic, vaudeville, and other arts. All proceeds help NOTC fulfill its mission to build community through entertainment, education, and laughter.  

New Old Time Chautauqua had to cancel its benefit shows and summer 2020 to Wisconsin to register voters for the November general elections. Instead, NOTC brings our big show to your very own screen, with each artist performing from their own home via Zoom.

Where else can you find a line-up like this? The shows feature everyone’s favorite 8-foot clown, Godfrey Daniels; Broadway stars, The Flying Karamazov Brothers; international Eccentric Performer, Poki; The World’s Best and Most Famous Bubble Guy, Tom Noddy; Lyrical, Evocative Singer Songwriter, Jan Luby; funny man and physical maniac, Frank Olivier; Artis the Spoonman (yes, of Soundgarden “Spoonman” fame); award-winning magician, Joey Pipia; multi-instrumentalist with hands and feet, Fiona Rose; social clown, Kristin Crowley; band composer and Tune Savant, Thaddeus Spae, as the incorrigible “Uncle Pappy”; Swinging Singing Troubadour, Harry “Boom Boom” Levine; Barnum and Bailey Clown, Chris Bricker; aerialista, Tayna Gagne; Whistler Extraordinaire and “The Voice of Woodstock,” Jason Serinus; physical comedienne, Sayde Osterloh; Beltin’ Balladeer, Kym Trippsmith — plus the Most Amazing Horn Band, now virtual, and celebrating its 45th year together, The Virtual Fighting Instruments of Karma Marching Chamber Band/Orchestra.

ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA

NOTC is a not-for-profit intergenerational all-volunteer organization of educators and entertainers, directed by Flying Karamazov Brother and NOTC Co-Founder, Paul Magid, that travels for a month each summer to collaborate with diverse communities and present educational workshops. Since 1981, NOTC has brought its exuberant magic to rural and underprivileged communities, tribal groups, boys and girls clubs, incarcerated citizens, and juvenile detention centers throughout the Greater Northwest, including Washington, Oregon, Northern California, Idaho, Montana, Alaska, British Columbia, Alberta. NOTC also traveled to New Orleans to provide healing magic after Hurricane Katrina. NOTC is a 501 (c) 3, all donations are tax deductible.

chautauqua.org

RADIO FREE FL!P: BETTER TIMES WILL COME

Janis Ian has invited folks to upload their versions of her new song. This is a community-building shelter-in-place project with lots of musicians posting their own versions. Steve Baughman’s was the first post I saw. It inspired me to pull my old gourd banjo off the wall and go back to trying to get my right hand to do the drop-thumb frailing / “clawhammer” move that is so different from guitar picking. While trying to get my left hand to play in tune with no frets! It’s a big challenge, but so worth it. When I got my gourd banjo some years back, I took it with me to guitar camp and left it on a table in the dining room so other musicians could play with it. Steve picked it up and he didn’t just play with it. He played it! And then he went home and ordered his own. I’ve been trying again to figure it out for a couple weeks now and am beginning to see a little progress. Anyway, here’s a bunch of great musicians  each playing the same  hopeful song.

Steve Baughman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZPep74lqpM

John Gorka
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EADd6bi4Y9o

Natalia Zukerman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dl4lfGTkIHQ

Eric Bibb
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByF-V5h-78M

Jeff Lake
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDT7WVVCG7E

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511 cell/text  flip@columbianeighborhood.org

CONTENTS 6/1/2020
Rumors
Double Your Bubble?
WD-40 Responses
YWCA Correction
More Hornet Advice
Cat Needs Home
Radio Free Fl!p: Here Comes That Rainbow Again

RUMORS

No, there isn’t violence and rioting planned in our community for tonight. Neighbors reached out to me. People got scared and were looking for reassurance and hoping to keep their families and neighbors safe, and quite a few people got alarmed. It’s OK. The police are on it and say nothing is planned. It’s even OK if you got scared and helped spread the rumors. It’s just because you love people. I’m not going to judge you for that. But you can let your guard down now, and get a little rest. It’s OK. I love you all!

DOUBLE YOUR BUBBLE?

Whatcom guide to gathering once it’s OK: From bring-your-own food to staying outside. Form a small and consistent group of people who don’t mingle with others, the Health Department advised.

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article242997421.html

CHALK COLLABORATORS?

I’d love to find some folks to brainstorm with me! Also, is there a graphic artist or two out there who might volunteer to help? I’d love to have a logo or banner for the online sign-up page. Any writers to help figure out what the sign-up page should say?

WD-40 RESPONSES

WD-40 is flammable and poisonous, and considered hazardous waste when disposed of.  If you spray it in an area where pets and wildlife will walk through it (and then lick their feet), where it can run-off into into streams, etc. — this is bad for us and the environment.  Please enjoy chalk art as temporary beauty; and as a joy to create again and again — but please do not spray WD-40 out on the road / sidewalk.

~ David Crook

I don’t know about WD-40 as a slip hazard, but most of our sidewalks are bordered by gardens and I definitely don’t want any WD-40 washing into my plants the next time it rains! (It’s also not so good for inhaling.)  Thanks,

~ Judy Kleinberg

WD 40 is listed as a pollutant in water.  I am not so sure about using this on chalk.

~ Steven Harper

Thanks Everybody! I guess that settles it. It is my hope that neighbors will chalk only in front of their own houses, or at the schools and churches that invite us. And that Chalkers will be thoughtful in their placement so viewers can get past without damaging either chalk or gardens. ~ Fl!p

YWCA CORRECTION

You said in your newsletter that YWCA of Bellingham on Forest St will be accepting donations starting June 1. I am an active volunteer at the YWCA and this is not the case for clothing and bedding. The YWCA would be very grateful to receive donations of funds of any amount to support their transitional and emergency housing program for up to 36 single women. Currently 30+ women are residing in the building. Right now due to Covid restrictions the Clothing Boutique is closed and the YWCA is not accepting donations of clothing or any other items (unless brand new bedding in original packaging). 

FYI: to apply to stay at the YWCA you must call the Opportunity Council 360 734-5121, not the YWCA of Bellingham directly.

Thanks to the generous people of Bellingham and Whatcom County for all they do to help people in need! ~ Pat Rose

MORE HORNET ADVICE

I called and reported our sighting of the Asian hornet and I asked her about what you had said that they only are near bee hives. She told me that the queen hornet can be sighted  up to 40 miles away from bee hives because she is out hunting for new places. She said the queens hibernate in the fall in a dead log or somewhere and come out in April, May and start looking for a place to furrow and make a nest. She said a bunch more but I can’t remember. Oh ya, she said we should not engage with it (step on it) but if find a dead one to put it in a baggy and photo it and then put it in the freezer. Send them the photo when you report it to them. ~ Carol Blaney

CAT NEEDS HOME

Mature cat needs a new home! Our father can no longer care for his sweet cat Tippy, and we all have full pet quotas already. She is friendly and would love petting. Dad overfed her, and she does need to go on a diet, but vet says she is healthy. We have vaccination records. Contact me for a photo and more details.

~ Sara Stamey, East Maplewood Ave., saras23@comcast.net

RADIO FREE FL!P: HERE COMES THAT RAINBOW AGAIN

Following yesterday with a song I learned from Tom Hunter. Kris Kristofferson wrote this song, and sings it here. The images are from the movie Grapes Of Wrath, from the scene that inspired this song. Did you know that he was a Rhodes Scholar who attended Oxford University?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ej1I-IrHWCc

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511 cell/text  flip@columbianeighborhood.org

CONTENTS 5/31/2020
Yesterday’s Elizabeth Park March
Waterproof Outdoor Chalk?
Donation Locations Opening Soon
Wanted: Bird Feeder
Elders, Workers & Masks
What Is Society?: Video
Thank You From D’Anna’s
Cute Backyard Studio For Rent
Radio Free Fl!p: Rock Me To Sleep

YESTERDAY’S ELIZABETH PARK MARCH

The Saturday afternoon march stayed calm from Elizabeth Park to the library, and then to Trader Joe’s. Here is footage from the Bellingham Herald. I had heard this video existed but I couldn’t find it on the Herald’s website. A friend finally sent me the link. Thanks Lee Che!

https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=900506373749527&ref=watch_permalink

WATERPROOF OUTDOOR CHALK?

“You might not be a chalk artist, but even if you are, surely you don’t want your work to be immediately washed away by an unforeseen rainstorm. In order to extend the life of your chalk creations, whether they be works of art or simply temporary delineations that need to remain for an event, spraying them down with WD-40 will keep them on the sidewalk or pavement, no matter what may happen with the weather after the fact.” ~ Elisabeth Starnes, Vallette Street

[Thanks! Can anyone comment on whether this could cause a sidewalk slip hazard. I searched online but couldn’t find an answer. ~Fl!p]

DONATION LOCATIONS OPENING SOON

I have been receiving a lot of questions about where people can donate the belongings they’ve been sorting out. Here’s what I found so far. More suggestions are welcome.

Whatcom Bellingham Habitat for Humanity on Cornwall opens June 1 for shopping and donations.

We Care of Whatcom Country accepts mainly clothing and distributes them for very minimal charge to the needy.  A lot of our agricultural worker families go there for needed clothing. 3550 Meridian, suite 2.

The YWCA on Forest street will open on June 1st and will accept donations then. Please call ahead.

Assistance League (across from Haggens) (I’m not sure when they are opening.)

Wise Buys (near downtown YMCA on State Street) (I’m not sure when they are opening either.)

There’s a drop box at the Mall near Red Robin which is maintained regularly.  Please do not use the closed drop box near Big Lots in the Birchwood/Northwest parking lot, or leave anything outside of any drop box or gate.

WANTED: BIRD FEEDER

Looking for a large bird feeder that needs a new home. 0726pat@gmail.com
~ Pat Macdonald, Birdhouse Studio on Lynn Street

ELDERS, WORKERS & MASKS

A neighbor had an experience with an appliance repair person coming into her senior household without a mask. The elder was uncomfortable confronting. It’s a good time to remember that we can all specify that masks and gloves will be required in our homes, at the time we make an appointment. We can of course refuse to let anyone into our homes if we don’t feel safe. We can phone to inquire whether a business has their employees masked before we visit there, or before they are dispatched to our homes. We can even ask if their customers are mostly masked. We do get to keep in mind that people with asthma or other medical conditions can’t wear masks, and be respectful and kind while we keep ourselves safe.

WHAT IS SOCIETY?: VIDEO

I had multiple requests for the video that I transcribed from last night so I am posting the link here, in case more of you want to watch it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4amCfVbA_c

THANK YOU FROM D’ANNA’S

Whoa—you folks are amazing!! What a great turnout at D’Anna’s first night open and on through the weekend—much greater than anticipated. Thank you for your enthusiasm and kindness last night as we navigated our first night back!!!!  It felt really good to be back at it, even if we were a little rusty! We are so thankful for your support and patience as we all learn a new way of doing things! We feel loved!”

CUTE BACKYARD STUDIO FOR RENT

Located near Elizabeth Park, this small backyard studio apartment is available now. This stand-alone, no-smoking unit can be lightly furnished if desired. Rent is $855, and includes all utilities, internet, and a washer/dryer. Shared outside spaces include patio, hot tub, and gardens for tenant to enjoy.  We require the first and last month’s rent and $400 refundable deposit. Please be prepared to provide references from present work and last housing. We (an active retired couple) live in the main house, so a quiet, responsible single occupant is a must. We are looking for a good fit for our common spaces. Please text (360) 389-1391 or  email fullermitchell2@gmail.com with a bit about yourself and any questions you may have.  We’re happy to make a (socially distanced and masked) appointment for you to see the space. 

Some additional details to help you decide whether to inquire further:

–No Pets-firm about this.
–Apartment is 100% smoke free! Premises are 100% tobacco free
–There is a good shower, but no bathtub
–If you love to bake and cook, this may not be the kitchen for you-There is a 2-coil cooktop, toaster oven and microwave.
–Parking is on street
— We practice Covid 19 safety procedures and prefer tenant who does also. When using common spaces; masks, outside visitors only, minimum 6 ft. distance maintained 

~ Beth Fuller-Mitchell, Williams Street

RADIO FREE FL!P: ROCK ME TO SLEEP

From our old Victor Street neighbor, Tom Hunter. He’s singing here with his friends Bev Bos & Michael Leeman. Willie Nelson also recorded this song with his daughter. If you poke around on YouTube, you can find them as well. But this one is my friend Tom, who wrote it, singing with Bev Bos & Michael Leeman. Tom was a jewel in this world.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVUvd6ev5Vc

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511 cell/text  flip@columbianeighborhood.org

CONTENTS 5/30/2020
W North Street Plant Stand Opens
Elizabeth Park Event Follow-Up
What Is Society?
D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano
Strong Back?
What To Do If You See A Giant Hornet
Grocery Run?
Radio Free Fl!p: Tico Tico

W NORTH STREET PLANT STAND OPENS

Hey Neighbors!
Sadly we won’t be having our Big June Plant Sale this year due to the Coronavirus. But we will have our summer plant stand open early this year, starting this weekend! Stop on by anytime and shop. We will try and keep it stocked with our leftover herbs from this season. Please remember to social distance and keep safe! 2200 W North Street plant stand.

REPORT ON ELIZABETH PARK GATHERING

In case you haven’t talked to anyone that went to the gathering, we went and walked down to the library and then most people walked on to Trader Joe’s. It looked like there were hundreds of people. I would say 99% were wearing masks. Hard to stay 6 feet apart all the time, but people were spread out for blocks and blocks, taking up most of Dupont Street from Broadway to downtown. It was very mellow. Here is a link to a Bellingham Herald video of the vigil at the library the night before. The offerings were really touching. ~ Jana Williams, Walnut Street https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article243107706.html   

WHAT IS SOCIETY?

“What is society? … It’s a contract we sign as human beings amongst each other. We sign a contract with each other as people, whether it’s spoken or unspoken, where we say, amongst this group of us we agree on common rules, common ideals, and common practices that are going to define us as a group. . . And as with most contracts, the contract is only as strong as the people who are abiding by it. . . There is no contract if law and people in power don’t uphold their end of it. . . It’s the same way we tell parents to set an example for their kids. . . If you lead by example there is a good chance that people will follow that example you have set. ” ~ Trevor Noah, Dominos video

[I was impressed enough with this description that I took the time to transcribe it word for word. If you want a link, I’ll find it for you. Love/Fl!p]

D’ANNA’S CAFE ITALIANO

D’Anna’s on State St has re-opened for curbside takeout service 4:00 – 9:00 PM Monday – Saturday. Order their website or phone call us at 360-714-0188.

https://www.dannascafeitaliano.com/

[If you hear of other beloved restaurants re-opening for take-out, please send me a notice.]

STRONG BACK?

Looking for Help Moving Large Garden Rocks.  Need a few hours (paid) work to help move garden rocks and perhaps shovel dirt to make a new raised bed in my yard for a vegetable garden.  Strong back required!  Please call/text Susan or Tony at 360-303-8182 or email s.c.holland@comcast.net.  Thanks!  Susan Holland, Utter St.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A GIANT HORNET

Mostly these hornets are found around beehives, so I’ll be surprised if any show up in our neighborhood. They have a very distinctive big yellow face, and are as long as a man’s thumb. There’s a photo in the links in the Bellingham Herald quote below.

If you think you’ve seen an Asian giant hornet, the Washington State Department of Agriculture wants you to report it. Here’s how:
▪ Go online to the Hornet Watch Report Form.
▪ Email PestProgram@agr.wa.gov.
▪ Call 1-800-443-6684.
Stay updated at the Asian giant hornet watch Facebook group. Learn more at agr.wa.gov/hornets, including how to make bottle traps for Asian giant hornets.

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article242040456.html

GROCERY RUN?

If anyone is going to Haggen’s or the Food Coop tomorrow or Monday, we’re running low on a few things. For that matter, there were items I used to buy regularly at Trader Joe’s, Smart Foods, Nieto’s, and the Asia Market, so any time anyone is headed for any of those, I would love your help to re-stock. Zeke and I are still staying home. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all the neighbors and friends who continue to make that possible.

RADIO FREE FL!P: TICO TICO

Here is a guitar Instrumental from Duo Siqueira Lima – Watch as this couple plays a duet with four hands on one guitar at a party, and everyone has such fun!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G9JzPRA7Do

And here they are doing the entire piece in a formal concert setting. Guitarists note: they sometimes swap half parts: invert their hands and play each other’s right hand, so each of them is playing one part with their left hand and a different part with their right hand, at the same time! She is from Uruguay and he is from Brazil. They met for the first time during a guitar competition in Brazil. They tied for first place. I am so happy they are now married. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVitgDEh_tw

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511 cell/text  flip@columbianeighborhood.org