Surfing the Tsunami

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

CONTENTS 5/29/2020
Alert: Lost Siamese Cat
Chalk Report
Immanuel Outdoor Gathering
My Mask Protects You; Your Mask Protects Me
Masks On West Street
Masks At Goods
Graduation Ceremonies Online
Graduation Parade
White Supremacists Again
Whatcom Covid Locations
What’s Happening At Our Library?
Disinformation
Radio Free Fl!p: Generations

ALERT: REWARD – MISSING LIGHT GRAY SIAMESE CAT: Possibly seen near James and Maryland, or more likely near E Victor St. I live close to the Meridian Haggen at 3016 Kulshan Street and my indoor cat (who roams in our fenced yard) went missing at around 8pm on 5/26. We moved a few weeks ago from James St and even though she seemed comfortable with the yard, she has disappeared. We are really worried. Please call me at (360) 531-2323 if you see her! She is pretty skittish. Her name is Persia. She likes tuna if you want to try to coax her. She is blue eyed, coloring is white/brownish/grayish and has darker striped markings on her face, legs, and tail. Unless she’s lost it, she has her collar (light green with a bright pink tag), is microchipped, and she’s spayed. We have been all over the neighborhood, talking with neighbors, spreading flyers, calling her name (even at night and no response). But sometimes I swear like I hear her high pitched meow and then it blends in with the bird sounds and Meridian St noise, or is actually a bird sound… I’m just driven sick with worry and can’t think about anything else. I’m going to be asking more neighbors if I can search their sheds/garages and if they can search their crawl spaces/basements. I think you’re right though and she’s near, but too afraid and is in instinct mode with tells her to be silent. I’m just trying to urge people to search, especially with a flashlight which could pick up on her reflective eyes, even in the daytime. Her litter box has been in our backyard (alleyway), along with food (gets eaten by critters), a blanket and clothes that smell like us. Thank you so much, all I want is Persia back. She’s posted on Craigslist, Facebook forums, Nextdoor, and around the neighborhood on flyers. Here’s a photo:

https://bellingham.craigslist.org/pet/d/bellingham-missing-white-gray-siamese/7131962768.html

Thank you, we miss our baby so much. ~ Megan Gambill, Kushan Street

CHALK REPORT

We’ve already got a couple photographers who have volunteered. I’m ready to try some experiments with the home made chalk paint to see if/how badly it stains the sidewalk (and clothing). If anybody else is up for experimenting I would love to hear how it goes!

IMMANUEL OUTDOOR GATHERING

Greetings neighbors, On Sunday, 5/31, Immanuel Bible Church will begin phased-in gathering outdoors pursuant with Governor Inslee’s guidance. In a season of heightened concerns, we believe it’s important to inform you of our meeting and our desire to do so safely. Everyone will be bringing their own chairs, spacing widely and wearing masks. We also remain ready to serve you and your family as needs might arise. Prayerfully, Pastor Michael

MY MASK PROTECTS YOU; YOUR MASK PROTECTS ME

Thank you so much to the many neighbors who are wearing masks when out in public. This is the most effective way that has been found so far to stop the spread. Masks are Love Thy Neighbor made visible. And thank you to all the mask-makers who are making this form of love possible!

MASKS ON WEST STREET
2525 West Street

Are you still looking? Let’s keep each other safe!!!

I’ve sewn and donated over 1000 masks to Healthcare and essential workers. Now I have more available for you neighborhood folks.

I have LOTS of kids sizes right now and maybe a dozen adult ones, but I’m making more this weekend. I’m putting them on a table in my yard, right inside the fence. You can reach over the fence to choose. They are individually bagged up.

Donations of around $5/mask would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be dropped in my mailbox or or Venmo me @lindsaymknight. Or PayPal my email lindsay.m.knight@gmail.com. its not about the money, just trying to recoup some costs for my donated masks. ~ Lindsay Knight

MASKS AT GOODS

Hi! Sarah from Little Bird Salon here! I will be bringing another 30 Masks to GOODS at 9am tomorrow. Sizes range from child’s (2-8), small/youth, medium and large. Due to my endless wait for elastic to be delivered I have switched to using nylon! And it is SO comfortable! There is also another small difference in the design as I have added additional wire for an even better fit over the nose. I hope you like them! 

Sarah Guenther
Little Bird Salon|
Lil.bird.salon@gmail.com

GRADUATION CEREMONIES ONLINE

June 12 at 6:00 PM each Bellingham school will host an event. I’ll add more information as it becomes available.

GRADUATION PARADE

Calling all 2020 High School Graduates from Columbia!!! Since traditional graduation parties aren’t possible this year let’s start a new tradition: SENIOR PARADE! Think 4th-of-July Neighborhood Parade but the seniors will be driven in their personally decorated cars on Saturday, June 13th from 12:00-1:30ish. Meet at Mrs. Valle’s house at 2515 Kulshan Street at high noon to start the line up of vehicles  The parade will snake up and down Columbia streets so that neighbors can celebrate our seniors in the safety of their yards. Seniors wear your  and gowns.  Neighbors prepare to make some noise in celebration!! Thank you, ~ Natalie Wermus, 2527 Victor

WHITE SUPREMACISTS AGAIN

This is the second time a small slip of paper with a white supremacist invitation to a website has been inserted in a Little Free Library in our neighborhood. If you host a library box, please check yours. Please get a photo of any such and email to the police, and to me as well if you wouldn’t mind, with the location and date. Report online here:

https://www.cob.org/services/safety/police/reporting/Pages/police-tips.aspx

or call here: 778-8800 station officer

Remove and save the paper. Maybe wear gloves. And if anyone observes weird behavior around a Little Free Library, please document and report to police.

WHATCOM COVID LOCATIONS

The Herald today reports on the virus broken down by school district areas. I found the article pretty easy to understand, and once I read the paragraph, the chart was illuminating. As far as I know, this is the first time we’ve had virus breakdown available by location.

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article243087881.html?

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT OUR LIBRARY?

The short answer is, lots!

https://salish-current.org/2020/05/29/busier-than-ever-librarians-connect-people-with-books-job-ads-even-food-during-covid-shutdown-community-voices/

DISINFORMATION

From my beloved Betsy Brown MD. Betsy is a medical doctor in Seattle who began blogging at the beginning of this pandemic. She has been one of my most reliable sources for information through this challenging time.

We are entering a new phase of disinformation. Most places have done a remarkable job of sheltering in place and lowering the infection rate. Truly amazing, really. . . This article shows that most people are in favor of moving slowly and safely in opening up, but a “Bot” army is behind the push to re-open. Bots, for those of us new to social media, are computers connected to each other and the internet to run automated messages pushing certain themes. They can make it look like the majority want a certain thing when in reality it is a very, very small portion, if at all. They can easily skew the conversation. Discouraging and potentially dangerous.

Along with the bots, the medical community is facing another problem. Data shows that of the most watched YouTube videos, 1 out of 4 of the COVID-19 videos have misleading or false information. What are we to do? It is hard to prove who is behind these false information campaigns. How do we discern and how do we counter those arguing this misguided information.

Keeping up with data and using reliable sites that are based in science are the best ways to help yourself and others. The New York Times article gives us ways to monitor data in 5 different ways. As always, the New England Journal of Medicine, Lancet, and JAMA, as well as sites for the Mayo Clinic and others, are trustworthy. Despite recent problems, the CDC and NIH are reliable sites that I use as well. It can take energy and time to try to change peoples minds, frustrating and fruitless much of the time. Possibly, remind the skeptical ones that you are doing this to prevent the spread, especially to vulnerable grandparents, relatives, and friends. This can be the gentle way to start to change minds. But remember, that if they push back, save your energy for yourself.

I am interested in this fresh data out of Seattle that shows that younger people are getting diagnosed more now than older people. Not surprising, partly because they are more liberal in their behaviors, getting out more, not wearing masks as well, being around more people. At the same time, older people, who have higher risks, are being more stringent and cautious in their behaviors. This is mixed news for us- on the one hand, more younger people will get infected which increases the virus in the community, but at the same time it reinforces that the precautions the older people are taking are working. That is encouraging data for us and hopefully can help us stay the course.

And the questions about “fomites” and catching COVI-19 from surfaces is not easy to answer and this article may help. If only I can learn not to touch my face! Keeping my hands washed will help.

And don’t forget to exercise. I feel better when I do and more stressed when I don’t.

Wash your hands and cover your nose!

You can read her daily posts at https://betsybrownmd.substack.com/

RADIO FREE FL!P: GENERATIONS

Another song, written by Si Kahn for his father, and grandfather, and the children and grandchildren who come after.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DK4kacXy0mw

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

CONTENTS 5/28/2020
Hop-Thru Produce Stand
Neighborhood Pottery Stand
Goods
Mallards
The Bagelry
Photographers?
Sharing
Found Key
Rental Available
Radio Free Fl!p: Gone, Gonna Rise Again

HOP-THRU PRODUCE STAND

I am still hosting Rabbit Fields Farm at my house every Saturday from 9-1. Online Pre Order & Walk Up. The organic produce is bagged or box and ranges from $5.00-30.00. The veggies have been harvested and packaged safely and we maintain a mindful distance and distribution at the stand. I hope to see you at what has become, a lovely community offering.  https://www.rabbitfieldsfarm.com/
~ Heather Fitzstrawn, 2526 Kulshan Street

NEIGHBORHOOD POTTERY STAND

Blue Water Pottery has set up a walk-up pottery stand on our street! We are selling our pieces that are cosmetic ‘seconds’ – pottery that has a blemish or small flaw or maybe we just didn’t like how it turned out – at half price (or better!) of normal cost. We’re putting out around a dozen pieces each day, from about 8 am to 8 pm. Sometimes I’ll post on Facebook or Instagram a picture of what is on display. We’ve got hand sanitizer at the booth, and payment is on the honor system with Venmo, or there’s a phone number to call or text us to come out for other payment methods.

I’m also restocking our Clay Art Kits as fast as I can! These kits contain some information, a small tool kit, and 2 pounds of clay for building and squishing. It’s great for anyone who needs a little hands-on art or something for the kids to do. We aren’t currently ‘firing’ or finishing your creations, but Burnish Clay Studio has resumed drive-by drop off and pick up, and they can bisque fire your art. The Clay Kits are free to pick up and will be at the Pottery Stand as soon as we can make some more. We’ve already given away over 150 kits!

Megan & Jeremy Noet
2521 Vallette St.
Blue Water Pottery
https://www.facebook.com/Bluewaterpottery

GOODS NURSERY, PRODUCE & LOCAL BREWS

Goods Nursery and Produce at the corner of Northwest & Elm is open with all your gardening essentials. We have local honey, Joe’s veggie and strawberry starts, herbs, pansies, compost and more! We are sanitizing all surfaces, enforcing social distancing among shoppers and disinfecting constantly. Cory is there daily from 9-4PM.

    Goods Local Brews is offering a growler exchange. Bring in your own growler and we will exchange it with a clean, sanitized one with a new cap. Check in with Cory from 9-4PM at the produce stand and he can fill your growler for you. Thank you all for your continued support through this very difficult time. We look forward to when we can open our doors again to the community! Stay safe and healthy!

  Cory’s cell: 360-303-9115

MALLARD

Did I say Mallard Ice Cream is open for scoops and pints?  https://www.mallardicecream.com/

THE BAGELRY

Now filling online orders & subscriptions Mondays, Fridays, & Saturdays! Please order at least 24 hours in advance. We are not accepting over the phone or walk in orders at this time. https://www.bagelrybellingham.com/

PHOTOGRAPHERS?

Are there skilled enthusiasts that might volunteer to photograph our chalk festival? Chalkers can take their own, but it would be so cool to get some really good photos as well.

SHARING

Last night I got to talk with an old friend. Miriam Barnett used to live in Bellingham and work with Allied Arts. She started and ran the downtown Chalk Art Festival for years, so I tracked her down in Tacoma. But, I was also her baby sitter when she was a little girl and we adored each other. It turns out there is only 5 or 6 years difference in our ages!

Miriam had lots of suggestions for our chalk festival: When you choose your chalk location, will it track into buildings? Can viewers get a good view? Can passers-by actually get past? Can we get some local dignitaries to preside? Want a photo of your artwork on a T-shirt or fridge magnet with a virtual frame that says Columbia Neighborhood Chalk Walk? Miriam said to be sure to set a rain date…

But she had another story that really caught me. In her neighborhood, folks are putting out boxes with food in front of their houses. Lots of folks. Anyone passing by can adopt any of the food that catches their fancy. A sweet way to share.

I realize that in our moderately well off neighborhood, we have neighbors who have lost their jobs, not just “till the pandemic is over” but forever. They live in nice, well-kept homes. Wear nice clothes. We would never know they needed help if they didn’t ask. And there are people who feel embarrassed to ask for help. Putting food out is such a tender way of sharing. It doesn’t ask any questions; it’s just a gift to whoever wants it.

FOUND KEY

Hello neighbors – We found a single silver key on the gravel path near the small bridge in Squalicum Creek Parkway yesterday evening. Let me know if you lost one. ~ Whitney Knickrehm
knickfam@bnfm.com

RENTAL AVAILABLE

1 bdrm, 1 ba, in historic Fountain District. $750/mo includes W/S, garbage & laundry facilities. Available mid June. No pets, non-smoker. For more information contact klwalkup@hotmail.com
Karen Walkup, Lynn Street

RADIO FREE FL!P: GONE, GONNA RISE AGAIN

Written and sung by Si Kahn, following on the apple theme from yesterday. This is kinda fun – both watching my own mind at play, and suddenly having my own one-song-a-day radio show!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1c272YnUaQg

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

CONTENTS 5/27/2020
COVID Testing Available
Betsy Brown MD
Preparing To Chalk?
Music Venue Closed
Radio Free Flip: Cherry Street & Apple Pie

COVID TESTING AVAILABLE

Widespread testing is now possible in Whatcom County. In recent weeks, the Whatcom County Health Department has said that there are enough supplies and equipment locally to expand testing so that even those with mild symptoms could, and should, get tested.

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article242942181.html

BETSY BROWN MD

Grief is real and here to stay for a time. The official count of COVID-19 deaths in the US passed 100,000 today, less than 3 months after the announced first death on February 29. . . Funerals and weddings are two of the biggest culprits in transmissions, so aren’t options right now. People yearn to grieve together. . . How to respond and grieve with our hurting loved ones? As Parker Palmer points out often just the gift of “presence” and “being with” them, not with advice, but just being with them, is the best thing. This presence can be done with a regular phone call, a video visit, a physically distant meet up in a park. We can’t fix their pain or what caused it, but we can be their witness. This is a gift we can give. 

https://betsybrownmd.substack.com/p/may-27-2020

PREPARING TO CHALK?

I’ve been digging around online, and found some good advice for Chalkers:

Bring protection for your knees and your skin – back of neck & hands. You might want to plan your masterpiece in advance. Make a sample and draw a grid over it. Then draw a big grid on your chunk of sidewalk and copy your artwork to each square, like paint-by-numbers. This will help with keeping things in proportion as you increase the size. Start drawing and coloring from the top and work your way closer to your body to keep from smudging your work.

Here are tips from Mayme Seaton of Forest Grove Oregon in 2014 (I found her online) quoted in https://www.oregonlive.com/

• Take comfort seriously
• Don’t take your art too seriously
• Darker colors last longer
• Make chalk paint
• Prepare to ruin your clothes

MUSIC VENUE CLOSED

 The Firefly Lounge at 1015 N. State St. announced in an email and on social media that it will not be reopening.

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/business/article243007621.html

SONG: CHERRY STREET & APPLE PIE

A reader reminded me of this song last night, and I dug up a link for you. After Zeke’s sonnet about our house, this seemed like a good next song to post (Tangents R Us). I thought I had posted it not that long ago, but I can’t find it on the blog. Anyway, it’s a true story about our block of Cherry Street. When Zeke and I wrote The Heart Of It All for Bea Doran’s 50th birthday, one of my neighbors pointed out that I had left out the big pie escapade. That story required its own song.

http://www.breskin.com/flip/CherryStPie.mp3

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