Local Surge Numbers; Puppetteller; Kindness; Rabbit Renter; More; Song: Year Of The Raccoon

CONTENTS 11/27/2020
COVID Surge Local Numbers
A Fable Each Day Keeps The Doctor Away!
Thanks For Kindness
Endgame At The Idiom Theatre
Quarantine Housing Sought
Renter With Rabbit
Jacqueline Schwab Pianist
Radio Free Fl!p: Year Of The Raccoon

COVID SURGE LOCAL NUMBERS

Here is a snapshot of the COVID-19 case situation in Whatcom county, put together for this list by Michelle Bates (who also does an arts email like mine in better times, and has been helping distribute information with the Vashon Emergency Operations Center during the pandemic), using data from the WA state/Whatcom County dashboard.

28% of the total cases we’ve had in Whatcom County since the beginning of the pandemic have been during the month of November – which isn’t even over yet! 624 of the total 2255 cases were recorded between November 1 and 24th.

Throughout the spring and summer, our county case rate vacillated between lows of 1 case per day to highs of 15 cases per day (7-day rolling average). From late September to late October, it held at 7-9 cases/day, and since then it has shot up without pause to the current rate of 33 cases per day. This is more than double at any time previously.

WWU reports that 21 students have tested positive since the beginning of November, with only 5 total cases before then, totaling 81% of all cases just this month.

The state’s target rate of cases is <25 cases/two weeks per 100,000 residents. Whatcom is currently at 137.2 cases/2 weeks/100,000.

A FABLE EACH DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY!

Your chance to catch some shorter, older thoughts on things over this weekend: Thursday through Sunday, 11 am till dark at the self-guided, walk-by, rain or shine, humble curbside diorama on the Corner of Victor/W. Connecticut. Enjoy! ~ “Max” Eberhard Eichner, puppeteller

THANKS FOR KINDNESS

I wanted to share about my walking-the-streets-life, and that I used to greet and be greeted by most of the people I passed. That changed slowly but surely as the cell phone culture grew. If my “hi” was ignored, it was often due to the fact that their eyes were looking down on a screen, and their ears had plugs in them. They couldn’t even see or hear me any more. Then came Covid, the masks, the feelings of self-and other-protection, and in less safe situations, peoples’ fearful avoidance, or disgust to the point of having to not only turn but stomp, and hurry away. BUT, creativity survives!  Slowly but surely again, we learned new ways. We could tell by the crinkling at sides of our masks that we were giving/receiving a smile. Folks seemed to have to be more focused and aware, especially as rain and cold weather pocketed ear plugs and screens, noticed and responded to each others’ gesture, wave, thumbs up, solidarity fist, or safely distanced words of greeting. There were nods, lots of little nods. There has been plenty of unmasked denial or downright uncaring intrusion, and those are seriously avoided as always, but still, lots of folks have learned how to greet, and show kindness and encouragement to each other safely. ~ Ellen Murphy

ENDGAME At The Idiom Theatre

Online Livestream Performance
Saturday, November 28
Virtual lobby will be open starting at 7:00pm
Performance begins at 7:30pm
Tickets by $5–$15 pay-what-you-can donation.

An absurd world frozen between existence and death, Samuel Beckett’s landmark 20th century play was his follow-up to his first absurdist masterpiece, Waiting for Godot. Four characters, Hamm (played by Hergenhahn-Zhao), Clov (Smith), Nagg (Braswell) and Nell (Shannon), cling to sanity while performing daily rituals, sometimes comically, as they wrestle some sort of order from the cyclical, repetitious, seeming nothingness of life.

https://sylviacenterforthearts.org/event/endgame-by-samuel-beckett/2020-11-28/

QUARANTINE HOUSING SOUGHT

Hi, I live in the Columbia neighborhood, am leaving town to see family, and looking for a place to self-quarantine for two weeks when I return. My wife is a nurse, and we can’t risk contact until I’m unequivocally Covid-free. I could rent a hotel room, but would be happy to keep the money in the neighborhood if anyone has a vacant studio or ADU they’d like to rent to me from 12/9-12/23. It would have to be a stand-alone suite–no shared spaces. Good wifi also essential, as I’ll be working. Kitchenette and pet-friendly would be nice but negotiable. Please email me if interested–mrweaver8@gmail.com. Thanks! ~ Michael Weaver

RENTER WITH RABBIT

My name is Amber I am looking for a low cost place to live in Bellingham. I work part-time at City Dogs Grooming, as a Dog Bather. I am able to afford around $300-$600 a month. I have a pet rabbit who is litter trained and lives in an x-pen in my room. I also own a queen-sized bed, making space requirements difficult, as I would need a larger room. I offer dog walking and drop-in visits, as listed on Rover under Amber H. 

With a detail-oriented mindset, I enjoy organizing and keeping things clean. I don’t own a car and therefore rely on public transportation. I am respectful, honest, and friendly. You can contact me at ottercharmer@aol.com. Thank you for your time. ~ Amber

JACQUELINE SCHWAB PIANIST

Saturday, Nov. 28, 3 pm PST

There Is a Balm—Vintage American Music of Love, Loss, Solace, Gratitude and Hope, from my Facebook page. I’ll choose from African-American spirituals, Irish and Scottish airs and dance tunes, parlor songs, an American anthem, gentle ragtime, my favorite habanera La Paloma, and perhaps even some Elgar. I’d love to “see” you there! Tune in to my personal FB page at 6 pm ET this Saturday, Nov. 28, 3 pm PST, to get the stream (you’re welcome to “friend” me—but do it soon!). No admission fee—but Paypal.com or Venmo.com tips are welcome!—please designate for jaspianist@gmail.com, as there is more than one Jacqueline Schwab on those sites. [I taught at a music camp with Jacqueline years ago. From anywhere in camp, I could tell it was her touch on the piano by the end of the first phrase. Ken Burns clearly agreed. She was the pianist for his Civil War series.]

https://www.facebook.com/jacqueline.schwab

RADIO FREE FL!P: YEAR OF THE RACCOON

I’m going to be brave. Zeke wrote a new song and I helped him record it and even got it up on YouTube (a first for me). Here we are in our own living room.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1masl65ICKc

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.

Neighborhood Association Meeting Minutes

This was such a major post I thought I would give it it’s own Update. Love/Fl!p 

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION (C.N.A.)

QUARTERLY GENERAL MEETING MINUTES

NOVEMBER 19, 2020 Via Zoom Meeting, 7-8:30 PM

ATTENDANCE:  6 board members, and 13 community members and 2 guest speakers

AGENDA:

Welcome and CNA Announcements

Share Shack update by Aaron Silverberg: the white board for posting offers or requests is active, as are the bulletin board and the free library. The tarp cover has been retrofitted to allow people to lift the tarp and access the front shelves for sharing. Location: SW corner of W Connecticut St & Henry St. Donations of small items in good condition are welcome.

Report  by Jill MacIntyre Witt from the Mayor’s Neighborhood Action Commission (MNAC). Sept meeting: The city Planning Dept explored the definition of “family.” Oct meeting: Presentation on multifamily zoning issues; community can visit the Engage Bellingham website for input: https://engagebellingham.org/rmproject. Nov. meeting: Report from the Library about the remodeling which will be done in spring 2021. Jill thanked the mayor for public announcements about trick or treating risks before Halloween.

Treasurer’s Report from Aaron Ignac, Treasurer:  The bank balance at the beginning of Nov  was $973.46. Expenses this month: $126.74 for the Share Shack cover, and about $160 for a Zoom account for CNA, to be reimbursed by the City. Updated balance: $846.72.  CNA now has a debit card to facilitate purchases.

Activity: Get to Know Your Neighbors We went into groups of three to share about ourselves and current events.

COLUMBIA CONVERSATIONS

Hannah Stone, City Council Representative for Ward 1: The City budget and other city business so we can find out how best to engage for changes.

The challenge for the City Council is to bridge the connections and goals from the community and businesses into action.  There are several issues that are in the process of research, discussion, and cost analysis so they may not make it into the 2021-2022 budget. For example: the Equity Commission, Crisis Response, and Civilian Oversight. The mayor and council are committed to these concerns, and will be able to re-allocate funds toward these programs at a later date, if they are not included for Dec passage. While Nov 23 is the last public comment period, you can send messages by email to individual council members. Council Contacts: https://cob.org/gov/council/contacts-bios Hannah: hestone@cob.org   

Good news from the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) 2021-2026

The funding was approved by 82% passage in the Nov 3 election.

Project #12 W Illinois St from Meridian to Lynn St: bicycle lanes and sidewalks on one side of Illinois (parking on one side of street will go away). Work in 2022.

Project #16 Intersection at Meridian and Squalicum Pkwy and Birchwood: create a roundabout for autos, and update pedestrian and bicycle pathways.

TIP Storymap: https://cob.org/services/planning/transportation-planning

Questions from neighbors:

Q: Aaron Silverberg: Please include funding for driver education on how to use roundabouts (signalling intentions)

Q: Anya Gedrath: Is there a plan to improve sidewalk connection from Cornwall Park to Squalicum Trail  (Bay to Baker trail)

A: Hannah: there may be plans for that. She encouraged us to contact the city council and/ or transportation committee with our requests. 

Todd Donovan, County Council Representative, District 2: How do we address racism as a health crisis.The Whatcom County Council is the Health Board for county citizens. They have been at the forefront in the Covid crisis. The WC Public Health Advisory Board, made up of members from agencies, the healthcare system, and  community members, came to the Council with their findings that racism is a health crisis. 

Institutional inequality has led to many shortfalls and disparities in health care, policing issues, and access to education. The Council put forth a Council Resolution which includes efforts such as  recognizing the issue of racism, providing training, and reviewing current procedures, such as hiring practices, for change toward more diversity and equality.  The formation of an Equity Commission will be community driven; you can share stories of your experiences with council members to give them a full picture of quality of life in the county and city/towns. Email: council@co.whatcom.wa.us   

On the issue of housing/ winter shelter for those without homes. The county and city doubled the space for winter shelter, but it is still not enough. They are expanding use of the Motel 6 beyond a Covid shelter. “Pallet shelters” are being funded and the county is looking for places to put them.  The Drop-in center on Holly St may open for cold shelter, and Christ the King Church will open on Dec 1 for overnight stays. 

On the 210 Camp (tent encampment on City Hall grounds). During the meeting, a request was sent to the mayor’s office to allow access to electrical outlets for the camp. Portable toilets and garbage bins are on site. 

Q: Kim Adamson: Community members are concerned. How can we help? A: Todd: let the councils know that shelter funding is what you want.

Kim offered to take supplies to the camp: 801-803-9601 Residents need laundry help.

Other options from David C: (From the camp) Current needs:

“Tents, tent stakes, tarps, SHOES, socks, underwear, gloves, coats, waterproof pants

NO MORE CANNED FOOD PLEASE food donations should be premade and individually packaged. Due to inconsistent fuel sources, we don’t have a fully functional kitchen.” Meal train for 210 Camp residents:https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/nnmwke

From Deb V: Check Flipmail for Columbia neighborhood efforts to help.

Meeting Wrap-up

Thanks so much to  Hannah and Todd, for taking the time to share your work with us! You and the other Councilmembers, County Executive and Mayor have been  dealing with all the 2020 emergencies with dedication and grace.

Thank you also to Lisa Anderson, City Council, for attending and engaging resources.

*** Each year the Columbia Neighborhood Association Board conducts elections. If you are interested in serving on the board in any of the offices, please send an email to columbianeighborhoodassociation@protonmail, subject line “CNA Board 2021” ***

Membership 2021: the CNA Board will be working on an alternate method for neighbors to join CNA. We usually take membership applications in person at our Feb meeting, but that may not be possible, depending on Covid restrictions at that time. Membership costs: $10 for an individual, $15 for a family.

Look for more details about upcoming events on the Columbia Neighborhood Group Facebook page, and in Flip-mail. CNA welcomes all neighbors’ participation- just contact your CNA Board members via email: columbianeighborhoodassociation@protonmail.com 

President: Jill MacIntyre Witt           

Vice President: Aaron Silverberg

Treasurer: Aaron Ignac               

Secretary: Deborah Valentine

Mayor’s Neighborhood Advisory Commission (MNAC) Rep:

  Jill MacIntyre Witt

MNAC Alternate Rep: Jennifer Moon

CNA Board Member-at-Large: David Crook

City Hall Encampment Needs; Puppet-teller; Lost Necklace, More; Song: Thanksgiving Eve

CONTENTS 11/25/2020
City Hall Encampment
A Fable Each Day Keeps The Doctor Away!
Lost Necklace
Do You Knit?
Small Rental Needed
Radio Free Fl!p: Thanksgiving Eve

CITY HALL ENCAMPMENT

Needs donations of
solar lights,
battery lights – all styles hanging , held, string.  And batteries like c, d, aa, aaa.
* tent stakes
* tarps
* tents, sleeping bags/ mats
* electrical strip
* Duct Tape
* Camp chairs
* pants m/w
* hot meals
* hot water
(No fire no fuel lights). There is a tent that accepts donations of food (individually wrapped) and another that accepts other supplies. When I am dropping off fresh, hot hard boiled eggs each morning, I wait in the car until a moment when things are quiet in front of the food tent, and then put on my mask and take my eggs over.

A FABLE EACH DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY!

Your chance to catch some shorter, older thoughts on things over this weekend: Thursday through Sunday, 11 am till dark at the self-guided, walk-by, rain or shine, humble curbside diorama on the Corner of Victor/W. Connecticut. Enjoy! ~ “Max” Eberhard Eichner, puppeteller

LOST NECKLACE

I lost my necklace somewhere in the neighborhood yesterday, between Elizabeth station and the corner of Victor and Connecticut. It’s a sterling silver necklace with a pendant about the size of a penny that has an opal in the center. It was a gift from my parents, I’ve had it for a long time and it has a lot of sentimental value to me. If anyone comes across it, I would be eternally grateful to have it returned. ~ Isabel Kowacz, bellkowacz@hotmail.com, 425-737-3136

DO YOU KNIT?

I am hoping to find someone who would knit me a cotton pillow cover, maybe a foot square, based on a design my sister created many years ago. I could email you a photo. ~ Fl!p Breskin, flip@columbianeighborhood.org

SMALL RENTAL NEEDED

Our dad is coming to Bellingham for 3-4 months December through March/April.  We are looking for a room to rent, a backyard cottage, a basement apartment, or short term house-sitting option for him to be here for the winter season. Ideally we would find him a place for the whole stretch, but we can also work out a couple of shorter rentals within those months. Since we both live in the Columbia neighborhood our preference would be to find him a place here, but if you have friends in other parts of town with a small rental we are open to that as well. He travels really light, the place could be furnished or unfurnished. He is friendly, easy-going and responsible. Thanks!

Laura Todd , Williams Street
lauratoddcoaching@gmail.com  360.224.0116

Alexandrea Spaulding, Williams Street
willynalex@comcast.net.  360.224.0094

RADIO FREE FL!P: THANKSGIVING EVE

By Bob Franke, sung by Sally Rogers. Bob wrote it for this night of the year. It sings in my heart often.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYSqFcWubD0

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.

88 More Cases; Supporting Neighbors Without Homes; Salish Current; More; Song: Happy Birthday Song

CONTENTS 11/24/2020
88 More Cases
Supporting Neighbors Without Homes
Salish Current
Help With Lights
Printer Wanted
More Eggs
Free Season Tickets!
Radio Free Fl!p: Happy Birthday Song

88 MORE CASES

Whatcom County say a record 88 more residents test positive for COVID-19, the Washington State Department of Health reported on Tuesday, Nov. 24. No new deaths were reported. Please stay home!!!

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article247396060.html

SUPPORTING NEIGHBORS WITHOUT HOMES

Sat. December 12, 10:00am-12:30pm

You are invited to a training hosted by Road2Home.org, a Whatcom County non-profit focusing on supporting our neighbors without homes. Learn more about trauma, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), social justice when volunteering, local resources, common reasons for homelessness, and more. Our first live Zoom training will be Saturday, December 12th from 10-12:30. Our goal is to help you feel more confident and comfortable when you volunteer at any local organization serving people who have experienced trauma (hint, that’s anywhere, because so many of us have trauma). This training has been made possible by funding from Whatcom Community Foundation.

For Zoom link, go to https://road2home.org/events/

SALISH CURRENT

Startup local nonprofit news platform moves forward with two-month fundraising challenge. Salish Current (https://salish-current.org), a local nonprofit, independent news platform dedicated to reporting news for the civic good, is participating in the national NewsMatch giving campaign which will match individual donations (https://salish-current.org/donate/) in November and December. “Funds raised will go directly to paying freelancers writing news,” said volunteer publisher and founder Amy Nelson.

Since February, Salish Current has published and made freely accessible over 40 original news stories reported by professional freelancers, emailed weekly newsletters (https://salish-current.org/newsletters/) of curated local news items to subscribers, and hosted community members to share their thoughts in essays, opinion pieces and analyses. “Our goal is to report local news in a way that provides nonpartisan, factual information our communities can use to discuss issues,” Nelson said. “Controversies abound, but Salish Current hopes to add to the light, not the heat, of discussion and decisions.”

To learn about Salish Current’s goals, principles, board of directors, advisors, donors and freelancers, go to their website About Salish Current. (https://salish-current.org/about/)  To have your support of independent, local news matched, donate here. (https://salish-current.org/donate/)

HELP WITH LIGHTS

Our handyman Evan Miller (who we found via this newsletter) asked me yesterday if I knew anyone who, because of physical limitations, might need help putting up outdoor Christmas lights. If you are such a person, he would be glad to help with your project for free. His e-mail is evan.pnw@gmail.com. Warmly, Kara Black

PRINTER WANTED

Looking for a smallish (approximately 15″x12″) printer. ~ Mary Stone, Williams St. marywstone@gmail.com or 360-201-0909  text, please

MORE EGGS?

I could use still more eggs. I have enough for tomorrow and a bit beyond. I’ve been taking 4 dozen hard boiled eggs down to the City Hall encampment of people without homes each day. I deliver them hot, because chilly people can tuck them in a pocket as a hand-warmer for a while before they eat them. If anyone is going to Smart Foods or Costco, they sell huge boxes of 10 or 15 dozen. It’s chilly enough that the eggs will hold in my front entry. Maybe check with me before you buy to make sure I haven’t been swamped, but I could use a hand getting more at this point.  Thank you! flip@columbianeighborhood.org

FREE SEASON TICKETS!

Alvin Ailey Dance Troop has announced a free virtual season. This is a BIG deal! My folks took us to see them live when I was a teen. They are amazing dancers!

This performing arts community plays a crucial social role, using the beauty and humanity of the African-American heritage and other cultures to unite people of all races, ages and backgrounds.

Moved to Inspire – Inspired to Move: Mr. Ailey taught us to “hold a mirror to society so that people can see how beautiful they are.” Our performances and education programs illuminate the human spirit, unlock potential, and spark change.

 www.AlvinAiley.org

RADIO FREE FL!P: HAPPY BIRTHDAY SONG

Tom Chapin’s birthday song. Seems like more people know Tom’s brother Harry Chapin. Today is Zeke’s 74th birthday, and my GrandTwins Lucy’s & Henry’s 12th birthdays. And we had two more in the family this month, on the 12th & 22nd. I wonder if Valentines Day has anything to do with all those November birthdays? This is a short song, so I’m including two versions of it. Maybe three. The last one is pretty funny!

I remember the first time I heard this song. Must have been on Prairie Home Companion. I was driving in the car. I was so taken with the song that I pulled over to give it my full attention, and also started scribbling. The tune was familiar (Merry Widow Waltz), and it’s short, so by the end of a few times through, I had it. I just adore this song!

https://www.tomchapin.com/docs/jg.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvbJsFzI3RI

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=511264679583447

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.

Cases Soar; Hospital Record; Story Box; More; Song: Field Behind The Plow

CONTENTS 11/23/2020
The Most Important Thing You Can Do
Cases Soar
St Joseph’s: Record Covid Patients
Ok. Everything Else Is Good News
The Little Mighty Story Box
Free Compost Bin
Math Tutor
Looking For Hot Tub
McKain Lakey Concert Tomorrow
Paul Klein Concert (Correction)
Radio Free Fl!p: Field Behind The Plow

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO
I’m sorry to give you hard news. Please, everybody, stay at home. Your job is not to avoid catching COVID. Your job is to assume you’ve got it and are not showing symptoms. Your job is to keep from passing it on. Numbers are increasing rapidly.

CASES SOAR

Whatcom sees 81 COVID-19 cases in two days, as last week’s testing positivity rate tops 4%

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article247383790.html

ST JOSEPH’S: RECORD COVID PATIENTS

St. Joseph hospital reports it is treating a record 18 COVID-positive patients on Monday, a nearly a four-fold increase from last week.

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article247376789.html

OK. EVERYTHING ELSE IS GOOD NEWS

THE LITTLE MIGHTY STORY BOX

Hi Neighbors and Friends –

Under the magnitude of our current situation, like you, I am in pretty minute celebratory moods these days. Yet, I can’t let tales of a certain subdued scale escape without “puppetelling”… So, will a few small Fables of Greater Truth do the trick as morsels of soul food at our sequestered tables?

The Little Mighty Story Box in the Columbia Neighborhood at the corner of Victor & W.Connecticut will dish up 4 dioramas, from 11 AM till dark, one for each day between Thanksgiving Thursday to Sunday. It’s all in weatherproof condition so stop by rain or shine.

Wishing you happy, safe and sane days ahead as these stories come and go and maybe provide one more reason to walk off some of this year’s (social isolation) blues and fat, (if any). Peace, ~ ”Max” Eberhard Eichner, Victor & W Connecticut

FREE COMPOST BIN

I am switching to an open compost bit this year and looking to re-home my FreeGarden 82 Gallon Compost bin. It has has all the parts (lid, door) and no functioning issues. If no one is interested, then I will take over to Re-Store later this week. It is in the alley behind Victor about half way between W. Connecticut and W. North (fence has evergreen covering iris along length).  http://enviroworld.ca/environmental-products/freegarden-earth ~ Carolyn Gray 562.216.3206 cell, cxgray@me.com

MATH TUTOR

Shout out to stellar math tutor and Columbia neighbor Diane Dawley.  With over 30 years of teaching experience and tutoring for students in middle school through college level math, Diane has been a godsend for  many students.  Zoom tutoring is better than no tutoring and Diane is an excellent resource in our community! Contact for pricing by email at dedawley@hotmail.com or via landline at 360.671.2638.  ~ Jill Schmitz, W. Illinois St. 

LOOKING FOR HOT TUB

My family is yearning for a good soak. If you have a tub to sell, please let me know.  ~ Chris Wermus, Victor St. 360-553-8864

McKAIN LAKEY CONCERT TOMORROW

McKain is playing a livestream tomorrow night (Tuesday, Nov 24th). She’ll be joined by her roomies Lyle Werner on fiddle and Neil Shah on drums, along with their pod-ner Nelson Williams on bass. I have a strong feeling that a rollicking good time will be had by all. Tune in to the dear sweet Quarantine Happy Hour to see us! 5:30pm PST. (You might have to refresh the page right at the start time to see the stream pop up.) https://www.facebook.com/groups/quarantinehappyhourmusic

PAUL KLEIN CONCERT

(Correction: I misspelled Paul’s last name. Sorry Paul!)
Fairhaven College Live Streaming Music Festival
College Live Streaming Music Festival Fall Series
Dec.3rd Thursday 7:00 pm Paul Klein.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/298533994557015/

He first performed at Fairhaven College Valentines Day Dance in 1976 with Wet Paint and the Painter Sisters. Paul Klein, pianist and bandleader of the Atlantics for 40 years (his first gig was Election night 1980). Klein also has played the Steinway at the Boundary Bay weekly for twenty years.  Paul is now retired and he looks forward to sharing his eclectic joys of music.

12/3 Paul Klein 12/10 will be Ara Kataak 12/17 Robin Elwood

RADIO FREE FL!P: FIELD BEHIND THE PLOW

I’m on a Stan Rogers kick. Enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUM8mXJre1c

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.

Pass The Hat; Endgame; Concerts; More; Song: Small Victories

CONTENTS 11/22/2020
Pass The Hat
Endgame At Idiom
Need Movers
Need Groceries
Paul Kline Concert
Robert Sarazin Blake
Radio Free Fl!p: Small Victories

PASS THE HAT

We help Whatcom County families by providing financial relief from tragic events. Tragedy brings more than just grief and loss; it also brings hospital bills, ambulance bills, funeral expenses and more. It’s too much to bear for families already facing heartbreaking situations.

How it works is simple: You sign up to give $2 a month, every month. That’s it. Meanwhile, thousands of fellow community members do the same, and your small $2 contribution becomes enormously powerful, helping local families.

We don’t rely on fundraisers, auctions or large donations. We rely on many people giving just a little. We provide a way for every person to make an impact, even if they have hardly anything to give. It’s simple, 100% local and incredibly powerful.

Pass the Hat is a vital safety net for our community and we need your support now more than ever.

This year we have paid more than $35,000 in direct benefit payments on behalf of 23 families.  We were able to help families dealing with the shock of the loss of a family member due to Covid-19, suicide, and sudden death. We lifted some of the burden of parents having to bury their children and babies. The Appropriations Committee was able to approve over 100 sessions of grief counseling through our unique program that pairs recipients with counselors willing to take on folks in a timely manner.

https://pass-the-hat.org/how-it-works/

ENDGAME AT IDIOM

Samuel Beckett‘s Endgame presented by Idiom Theatre opened Friday at the Sylvia Performance Center downtown. After zoom rehearsals since September with director Sean Cook in L.A., we finally met for the blocking, set build, costumes, lighting AND the tech just TWO weeks ago! WHEW!  It’s been a wild schedule, I tell ya.

Please come see what we made for you and support the arts in Bellingham. 😀Here’s the info for tickets to the live streaming.  Make some popcorn and have a seat.

https://sylviacenterforthearts.org/event/endgame-by-samuel-beckett/2020-11-20/

NEED MOVERS

Does anyone have the name of a good mover?  In early December I’ll be leaving this wonderful neighborhood and moving about 4 1/2 miles southwest.  It’s a small job.  Just 30 or so assorted pieces of furniture and a couple of large plants.  I appreciate any recommendations. ~ John Burt 206 719-0054 cell / text

NEED GROCERIES

If anyone is going to Trader Joe’s (or actually any grocery store) tonight or tomorrow, we could use a few things. Thanks! ~ Fl!p Flip@columbianeighborhood.org

PAUL KLINE CONCERT

Fairhaven College Live Streaming Music Festival
College Live Streaming Music Festival Fall Series
Dec.3rd Thursday 7:00 pm Paul Klein.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/298533994557015/

He first performed at Fairhaven College Valentines Day Dance in 1976 with Wet Paint and the Painter Sisters. Paul Klein, pianist and bandleader of the Atlantics for 40 years (his first gig was Election night 1980). Klein also has played the Steinway at the Boundary Bay weekly for twenty years.  Paul is now retired and he looks forward to sharing his eclectic joys of music.

12/3 Paul Kline 12/10 will be Ara Kataak 12/17 Robin Elwood

ROBERT SARAZIN BLAKE

From The Kitchen Table
Sundays, 5 to 7 pm PSZ
http;//www.facebook.com/robertsarazinblake/live
or find the broadcast on the homepage.

 November 22: Petunia
November 29: Caleb Klauder and Reeb Willms

My annual holiday show, A Very Subdued Christmas will be broadcast from the kitchen table.
Sunday, December 20th and
Thursday, Christmas Eve, December 24th
5 to 7 pm PST

RADIO FREE FL!P: SMALL VICTORIES

Garnet Rogers, Stan’s brother. The small victories are worth fighting for too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0c3gA76uPQ

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.

Camp Needs Helpers; Covid; Volunteer; Hotspot Lending; More; Song: The Mary Ellen Carter

CONTENTS 11/20/2020
City Hall Camp Needs Helpers
Whatcom Covid Numbers Way Up
Volunteer With Bellingham Schools Central Kitchen
Wi-Fi Hotspot Lending
Mystery Find
Blue Water Pottery
Radio Free Fl!p: The Mary Ellen Carter

CITY HALL CAMP NEEDS HELPERS

Lottie 210 protection camp still has a big need for skilled hands to secure tents and tarps- so few have the skills to set up to withstand the winds … Anyone with a Search and Rescue connections that would be willing to encourage them to show up and offer hands-on assist to a few tenters for a few hours each day would be super helpful.

WHATCOM COVID NUMBERS WAY UP

Please take care of yourself, your family, and our hard-working high-risk health care workers. Mask up, and cancel your family thanksgiving this year. Run it by zoom so all of us can all still be here to celebrate in person next year. Thank you!

VOLUNTEER WITH BELLINGHAM SCHOOLS CENTRAL KITCHEN

Dear Prospective Volunteers,

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Bellingham Public Schools. The good news is our youngest learners and most vulnerable students are back in school. There are strict health and safety protocols in place and so far, so good.  Central Kitchen’s food service staff have also returned to schools to insure students have a nutritious daily meal leaving them shorthanded. They are in the process of hiring 7-9 food service staff by January but in the interim could use some helping volunteer hands to assemble student meal boxes which are distributed weekly to 14 school and housing sites throughout the city.  Here are the details:

Food Service Volunteers
When: December 1st-3rd  AND 8th-10th / Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays
Time: 11am-3pm
Description: Volunteers are required to have a food handlers permit and will assemble student meal boxes
Safety:  masks are required and strict social distancing enforced

If you have time, energy and feel safe inside to volunteer with Central Kitchen, please go to this SignUp Genius link. Volunteers welcomed to sign up for one or multiple shifts.  And feel free to share this opportunity with folks who may also be interested.  We are extremely fortunate to live in such a generous and big hearted city!

In gratitude,
Jennifer Gaer
Volunteer Coordinator
Bellingham Public Schools
360-647-6848

WI-FI HOTSPOT LENDING

If you need access to the Internet, Bellingham Public Library is now able to lend mobile Wi-Fi hotspot devices for free. See our Wi-Fi Hotspot Lending page for full details. We’re lending two types of hotspots that each work on a different cell carrier’s network.

  • Coolpad Surf hotspots connect to the Internet using Sprint’s 4G network.
  • Ellipsis Jetpack hotspots connect to the Internet using Verizon’s 4G network.

You may borrow a single hotspot for 3 weeks. If no one is waiting, it can be renewed up to 3 times. Only one hotspot request per patron is allowed at a time. Visit our online catalog to place a request on a Coolpad or an Ellipsis.

MYSTERY FIND

On Nov 20, 2020, at 4:09 PM It’s sitting on the fence on Jefferson between Lynn and Henry.  If it starts to rain I will bring it in and can be contacted at 360-303-0982.  Call or text  Katy Velasquez

It looks like a purple fingerless mitten. Do you think that’s right? I can’t see the scale. Maybe a miniature dachshund sweater?  ~ Fl!p

BLUE WATER POTTERY

Friendly Neighborhood Pottery Stand: We are currently setting up our neighborhood pottery stand on days when we’re not forecast for rain, including this Saturday the 21st. All our pottery on the stand is cosmetic seconds, and retails for less than half of our regular prices. We accept Venmo for contact free sales, or cash. Our stand is set up on Vallette St, between W. North and Jefferson, and flies a blue Harold flag. You can check Facebook and Instagram to see if we’re open and what’s out there.  ~ Megan & Jeremy Noet, Blue Water Pottery

RADIO FREE FL!P: THE MARY ELLEN CARTER

By Stan Rogers. With the most amazing story to start it off. This is a song that saved a life. This video starts with the man who lived because of this song, telling that story. I found out yesterday that the man who lived, later went on to save many, many more lives. I got to zoom in to Columbia Elementary and sing story-songs for the third graders, and looked up to make sure I had the background correct, and found out the rest of this story. This is a song I need often, and you may want to have it tucked in the back of your mind too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fT-aEcPgkuA

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.

Neighborhood Meeting Tonight; Homeless At City Hall; Lots More; Song: I Shall Be Released

CONTENTS 11/19/2020
Neighborhood Meeting Tonight
Homeless At City Hall
Diamond Jim’s
Thanksgiving Take-Out
Humidifiers @ WindWorks
Natalie Macmaster And Donnell Leahy
Radio Free Fl!p: I Shall Be Released 

NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING TONIGHT

Online – Zoom Call
Tonight: Thursday, November 19 7-8:30pm
Our Neighborhood Quarterly Meeting will be focused on conversations with our City and County representatives.

City – Councilmember Hannah Stone – to help us learn about the City Budget and other city business so we can find out how best to engage for change.

County – Councilmember Todd Donovan – to learn how to address racism as a health crisis.

AGENDA
1) Welcome and CNA Announcements
2) CNA Treasurer’s and MNAC Report
3) Get to Know Your Neighbors Activity
4) Columbia Conversations
5) Meeting Wrap up

*Topic: CNA Quarterly Meeting
Time: Nov 19, 2020 07:00 PM Pacific
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8Z76291732…
Meeting ID: 851 7629 1732
Passcode: 888813

Look for more details about upcoming events on the Columbia Neighborhood Group Facebook page, and in Flip-mail. CNA welcomes all neighbors’ participation- just contact your CNA Board members via email: columbianeighborhoodassociation@protonmail.com 

President: Jill MacIntyre Witt
Vice President: Aaron Silverberg
Treasurer: Aaron Ignac
Secretary: Deborah Valentine
Mayor’s Neighborhood Advisory Commission (MNAC) Alternate Rep: Jennifer Moon
CNA Board Member-at-Large: David Crook

HOMELESS AT CITY HALL

The folks there are in urgent need of a dozen sleeping bags and dozen blankets today. There is a great need for warmth. Also any old/new yoga mats or closed cell camping pads for ground insulation. Just take what you’ve got down to City Hall. There are two supply tents in front. Any food needs to be individually packaged. It was COLD last night!

DIAMOND JIM’S

These times are once again extremely difficult for restaurant business. Please consider supporting Diamond Jim’s.  They again cannot give dine in service. Jim’s is not known as a take out, but that is all they can provide currently.  Jim has cut hours to Thursday through Sunday. Their breakfast and lunch menu items are delicious. Call ahead to order then enjoy your meal at home, in your car or business. This location has also been challenged by the reconstruction of the city park which has blocked off parking on Monroe St for several months.  Thank you for considering our local business. ~ Karen Walkup,  Lynn St

THANKSGIVING TAKE-OUT

Some deadlines have already passed, but there are others still available.

https://www.bellingham.org/insider-blogs/where-to-order-thanksgiving-dinner-in-bellingham-and-whatcom-county/

HUMIDIFIERS @ WINDWORKS

The humidifiers have arrived. If you play a wooden instrument, these can prevents cracks when the weather turns cold and dry. And this brand lets you see at a glance if it’s time to refill. Windworks: 360-733-5840 Love/Fl!p

NATALIE MACMASTER AND DONNELL LEAHY

Saturday | December 19 | 7:00PM $20, MBT
A Celtic Family Christmas at Home

This Christmas season, Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy’s family is inviting you into their home—virtually—to witness their music, life, and holiday traditions. Mostly sharing music, they will also include candid moments around the kitchen, decorating the tree, and other delightful bits of Christmas chaos!

https://www.mountbakertheatre.com/Online/default.asp

RADIO FREE FL!P: I SHALL BE RELEASED 

Rising Appalachia rocks a classic Bob Dylan song. In the long term, we shall be released, but not quite yet. In the short term, please stay home for Thanksgiving!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wn4h1Vms2zw

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.

Whats Happening At City Hall? Tonight: Mysterious Fairhaven Markers; Women’s Film Festival; More; Song: Bones

CONTENTS 11/18/2020
Whats Happening At City Hall?
Eggs
MealTrain For Homeless Encampment
Mysterious Fairhaven Markers
Women’s Film Festival
Robert Sarazin Blake
Fabric
Guitar Humidifiers
Seeking Housing
Radio Free Fl!p: Bones

WHATS HAPPENING AT CITY HALL?

Organizers and houseless folks have occupied the City Hall Lawn as a site for community outreach, and as a political act to make it apparent that shelters need be opened immediately. In this time of COVID, Bellingham appears to have only about a quarter of the beds needed.Please urge the city and county council to shelter ALL people in our community. Craft an email or call these contacts (as well as council members) in support. We also need volunteers come out and support the camp, day and night. Please consider stopping by to meet the community and get involved. 

CONTACT:
Mayor Fleetwood-(360) 778-8100 mayorsoffice@cob.org
Executive Satpal-360-778-5200 ssidhu@co.whatcom.wa.us

EGGS

Thank you to the many neighbors who brought me eggs to hard-boil and donate to the people outside city hall who can’t find other shelter. I was able to take 7 dozen this morning, with individual salt and pepper packets (in paper).  (Have you ever eaten eggs with no salt?) Hard boiled eggs are automatically individually packaged so they make a quick and easy snack. I’ll take more tomorrow. Folks are also in need of tents, sleeping bags, boots, insulated gloves, warm wool socks, rain gear and warm coats. Last year I collected things here at our house, but in this year of COVID, please take your offerings directly to City Hall. I dropped off donations this morning, and it was very quick and easy, and I was able to stay safely distanced. Thank you! Love/Fl!p

MEALTRAIN FOR HOMELESS ENCAMPMENT

Meal Train Plus for 210 Camp: We are serving dinners to approximately 50 folks camping in front of City Hall as a coalition demanding shelter. Please help out if you can and sign up to deliver a hot dinner! MUST BE IN INDIVIDUAL CONTAINERS PER COVID REGULATIONS (email if you need funds to provide containers) If you can’t provide 50 meals please still sign up and send me an email and we can work something out to supplement.

https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/nnmwke

TODAY: MYSTERIOUS FAIRHAVEN MARKERS

Today, Wednesday Nov 18, 7 PM  $10 Preregistration required

I need a YAY!!! Emoji.  They’ve added more slots. There’s room for you. I am going to this, and you’re welcome to join me. Real historians. Local history through stories. Uppity attitude. Fun costumes. What could be better?

Kolby LaBree of the Good Time Girls will lead a virtual tour of the famous “Fairhaven Markers.” You may have seen them placed around Harris Avenue and beyond in Bellingham’s Historic Fairhaven District, with mysterious messages such as “Dead Men Displayed Here, 1890.” We will dive deep into the stories behind some of the markers with filmed footage and historical photographs. Question and answer session included. The event will be hosted via “Zoom” and last around an hour, featuring a presentation of local history, photos and more. $10/person (half price of an in-person tour and you don’t have to leave your couch!)

https://apm.activecommunities.com/bellingham/Activity_Search/mysterious-markers/6496

WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL

CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival and KCTS present Five French Short Films Directed by Les Femmes Online This Weekend! Originally accepted for CASCADIA’s 2020 annual film festival, five short French films have been selected from UniFrance, the French government’s cultural non-profit for supporting new and emerging French filmmakers, and L’Agence Court du Métrage.  The films, all directed by women, explore adolescence in France with some twists along the way.

 The films will premiere online, November 20 – 22, on-demand through the Pickford Film Center so viewers can watch anytime, with half of all ticket sales going to support the Pickford Film Center. More film and ticket information can be found: https://www.pickfordfilmcenter.org/cascadia_french_showcase/

ROBERT SARAZIN BLAKE

From The Kitchen Table
Songs Stories Guests & Requests
Sundays 5-7pm  Livestream Broadcast Concert
Nov 22 Petunia
Nov 29 Caleb Klauder & Reeb Willms
Dec 20 & 24 A Very Subdued Christmas 

https://www.facebook.com/robertsarazinblake/live  

FABRIC

I’m looking for large pieces of cloth that would work for making clothing – fabric meant for sewing is great, but so are old curtains, quilts, sheets, wool blankets, skirts, etc. I can be reached at selkie.ryes@gmail.com or (call or text) 360.820.9330 ~ Sara De Roy

GUITAR HUMIDFIERS

Windworks, on Meridian across from the RE-Store, just got in a bunch of Oasis guitar, mandolin and ukulele humidifiers at my request. If you play a wooden instrument, these tools can keep your axe from cracking in the cold when dry freezing air blows in this winter. Give ‘em a shout! 360-733-5840. Love/Fl!p

SEEKING HOUSING

My friend Hestia is in desperate straits trying to find a place to live.  She’s a former Bellinghamster but had to leave here to take a job some years ago. ~ Elizabeth Harris, Jaeger Street

My name is Hestia Laitala and I have been on a waiting list in several counties for senior subsidized housing for four years (3-7 year waitlists). I recently learned that I have to vacate where I am by the first of the year. I’m seeking a small, ground-floor apartment, mother-in-law dwelling, a studio or any reasonably priced room in which to live. I am a 67 years of age woman, easy going, responsible and kind. I have no pets, no allergies to pets, and I live a quiet, independent life. If you have a space, or any information about a space that would be suitable, please email me at heslaitala@yahoo.com, or call 360-338-8550

 RADIO FREE FL!P: BONES

By Libby Roderick. It’s not what you might think. Such an interesting view of the world! And she’s a lovely singer…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPD4snzGnT4

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.

Escaped Greenhouse! Neighborhood Meeting Thursday; Homeless Help Needed; Youth Philanthropy Projects; Egg Run? More; Tune: Hellebore Rag

CONTENTS 11/17/2020
Escaped Greenhouse
Neighborhood Meeting Thursday
Homeless Help Needed
Youth Philanthropy Projects
Down-Sizing Weaving Supplies
Egg Run?
Rental House Available
Linda Allen Concert Thursday
Radio Free Fl!p: The Hellebore Rag

MOBILE GREENHOUSE

A small green greenhouse just blew past my house. It was put in our trailer on the corner of Williams and Washington streets. Come and claim it anytime. I’ll be home. ~ Rosalie Carlson

It was blowing down Williams St. A neighbor let me put it in her trailer on the corner of Washington and Williams. Can’t guarantee it will stay there long! ~ Darrah Blanton

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING

Online – Zoom Call
Thursday, November 19 7-8:30pm
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85176291732…
Meeting ID: 851 7629 1732
Passcode: 888813

HOMELESS HELP NEEDED

Winter is upon us yet again. During this time of the year it becomes more difficult for those of us who are having to live outside. Winter Outreach is in full swing, and we need your help. We need to make sure that people who are living outside in the cold have the supplies they need to survive the winter.

We Need:
Warm jackets
Pants
Boots
Hats
Socks
Gloves/mittens
Sleeping bags
Blankets
Granola bar/protein bars
Bottled water
Refillable bottles we can hand out
Large black trash bags
Small flash lights
AA batteries
Hygene Products
Tents
Emergency Blankets

If you have these items, please bring them down to Unity Village, located at 210 McKenzie Avenue. Bellingham WA 98225

If you’d like to instead donate money so we can buy these items, that can be done through: https://homesnow.org/donate

If you’d like to volunteer for Winter Outreach, please sign up at: https://homesnow.org/volunteer

From Doug

YOUTH PHILANTHROPY PROJECTS The Whatcom Community Foundation runs a Youth Philanthropy Project, bringing high schools students from all of Whatcom County together to participate in a three-month program focused on building leadership skills, expanding non-profit development skills, fostering interest in participation in non-profits in the future, building teamwork and growing student confidence.  Students in our neighborhood have participated and speak highly of the program.  Applications due December 1st.  Program begins in February 2021. https://www.whatcomcf.org/community-impact/programs-partnerships/youth-philanthropy-project/ ~ Laura Todd, Williams Street 360.224.0116 or lauratoddcoaching@gmail.com.

WORLD HELLO DAY

World Hello Day is the brainchild of two brothers back in 1973 and, although their web site is sparse, it certainly does get discussed online. You can read the Wikipedia article yourself, but I appreciate the basic idea. Under the current restrictions of COVID-19, of course we can’t greet strangers while walking down the street, but perhaps we all can recognize the day with a friendly greeting on our own chosen social media channels. More than ever, the need is great for simple, unadorned, day to day friendliness. ~ Greg Hope, Victor Street

http://www.worldhelloday.org/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Hello_Day
https://www.skipprichard.com/29-ways-to-celebrate-world-hello-day/

DOWN-SIZING WEAVING SUPPLIES

Nilus Leclerc 4 harness floor loom
4 harness table loom, great for samplers and or scarves
A spinning wheel and a tapestry loom.
Please call Dorothy Defremery at (360) 856-1727 Prices very negotiable.

EGG RUN?

Can anyone pick me up four dozen eggs today? I want to make some hardboiled eggs for the homeless folks camped out at City Hall. Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511

RENTAL HOUSE AVAILABLE

We have a 3 bed/1 bath rental home in the Columbia neighborhood that will become available mid to late December. Home is two blocks from Columbia Elementary. It has washer/dryer, dishwasher, gas fireplace plus gas furnace, fully fenced yard, covered car port, and partial basement for storage. Our current tenant is moving out sometime in early December. If you know of anyone that may be interested please contact me and I can share photos, address and further description. Depending on the tenant we can arrange a tour for those highly interested, or of course after tenant moves out house will be easily accessible. We are posting with our neighbors first, and will post on Craig’s list in a week or two. Rent: $1,900 plus utilities. Alex Spaulding, willynalex@comcast.net, 360.224.0094.

LINDA ALLEN CONCERT THURSDAY

Due to internet issues 2 weeks ago, KMRE is going to replay episode 2 of the Local Folk show from 2 weeks ago about Linda Allen and activism tomorrow night 7-8pm on www.kmre.org and 102.3FM.  ~ Ted Matts

THE HELLEBORE RAG

By Ben Bonham, played on my beloved Twangoleum, which got caught in the pandemic down near Hood River, Oregon. The instrument is having a great time, and so is Ben. He sent me this today. Isn’t that a crazy instrument? And doesn’t Ben play it wonderfully?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y93awlB9uLM&feature=youtu.be

Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511  2518 Cherry Street flip@columbianeighborhood.org

If you want to ask me to post something, just email me. If it’s urgent, phone. If it’s a real emergency, call 911.