Surfing the Tsunami

ELIZABETH PARK CONCERTS

Thursdays 6 – 8 PM At The Gazebo (with food and dessert tents!)

[Tonight! Tracy is just amazing!!! I’m really looking forward to this.]

July 29 TRACY SPRING AND JEZEBEL’S MOTHER, Rootsy – bluesy – lively – lovely

August 5 D’VAS AND DUDES, Country folk, Rock, Blues, and Boogie Woogie

August 12 4TENS BAND, Fun Classic Rock Party Music

August 19 THE SWEET GOODBYES, Folk/Pop

August 26 CRAIGO’S PLANET GROOVE, Grateful Dead meets New Orleans Funk

September 2 BANDZANDT, The County’s Happiest Rock Band

ELECTION AUGUST 3RD

You can register to vote right up to Election Day at the county courthouse. Primaries are important elections, and your vote counts for more since few people vote. Less than 20% of eligible ballots have been returned at this point. Have an influence! Make a difference! If you haven’t received your ballot, contact the Whatcom County Auditor’s office at 360-778-5102. Here is a link to a wealth of information:

https://www.whatcomcounty.us/1732/Current-Election

INJURED LANDSCAPER UPDATES (2)

This is follow up from the wreck on Eldridge on July 9. There’s a GoFundMe to help the landscaper who was injured, and the organizer of that has been posting updates on Kim. I have not yet been able to get more information on the driver. The police are still investigating, and not sharing information yet. Love/Fl!p

• July 22, 2021
  by Sherry Boyd-Yost, Organizer
  Good evening friends of Kim Eagle.❤
• Kim is doing better.  She is getting clearer in her thoughts and much more lucid. She now knows she has lost her legs, has  broken pelvis and punctured intestine. And has been through several surgeries, and as you can imagine she is processing it but handling it as the tough woman that we all know her to be. I know she will have her ups and downs. It will be great to be able to show her how many have reached out to Love and help her in this huge change in her life. She wants to move around and has to be restrained so that she doesn’t fall out of bed. Her son Lee was very happy to be able to speak with his Mother and hold her hand, the last couple of days. She is reacting very well.
• I am heading to Seattle early tomorrow. I will be able to sit with her and talk with her now that they have brought her out of the induced coma. Lee will be able to be home this weekend, having a chance to begin preparing Kim’s home for when she will be able to get home. Your donations will help to put in some larger doors, and ramps to make it easier for Kim to get in and out of the house and rearrange her bathroom so it will be better for her new functional needs. Clearance Leroy (Lee) Dickenson IV is Kim’s Son Lee. He and his wife Bobbie and Lee’s children are taking good care of all Kim’s animals and home so happy to say this is working out.
• I am so grateful she is hanging in there for us to still love her and be loved by her and have her in our lives. I am looking forward to seeing her for myself. I will give report tomorrow after I spend some time with her, and tell her how many people love her and have donated money to help her afford to pay her bills, make the changes that will make it functional for her new challenges.
• Thanks to you all for all you have done. Love Is all there is! ❤ ~ Sherry

• July 26, 2021
  by Sherry Boyd-Yost, Organizer
  Hello friends and loved ones of Kim Louise Eagle.
• The last three days have been an awakening. When I arrive at Harbor View Hospital last Friday I don’t know that many of us can imagine what it’s like to wake up to find that your legs are gone and you have no feet. And the realization is so heavy that your beyond yourself trying to figure out what has happened to you. Kim has been sedated for 13 days, then they started to wake her up slowly so that she could start to realize what’s happened to her, Kim is one of the strongest women I have ever met in my whole life. I’ve known Kim since we were 21 or 22 years old. We’ve been friends ever since, We have raise our kids together, and enjoyed every bit of it. Many tragedies have happened to Kim and her life, and to have this to wake up to and see that you have no legs and no feet. “What am I going to do? What will I do? How did this happen? What do I do?”She says.
• Her short term memory is not good right now with all of the sedation meds, I’ll have to re-tell her what happened over, as she wishes to hear, she just shakes her head. We have just lock eyes for the longest time in our disbelief, without saying a word. I want her to know I am here for her this is my dear dear friend.
• I know so many of you care about her and obviously we appreciate so much what you’ve helped to donate and gained enough money to help her get through this. This is so tough for this beautiful gazelle that I’ve known for many years, her heart and her life have been all about her children, nature and plants and animals and for her realization to now know she’s not able to do the work on her clients projects, To not be working in the gardens. Not long ago, she was wondering when she would retire, and she says now I’m retired no matter what I think is how do I get back from this what do I do? What do I do, she asked the nurse. The nurse says well right now Kim, you mourn the loss of your legs, you go through the healling, this will take a while, and then we are going to help you, and you won’t believe how many people will help you get to a new normal. This is really hard in the best thing to do right now is just to mourn and realize you need to do everything you can to get back to your own self, and be strong and healthy.
• Kim’s realization now is that she is so weak and she’s been out of it for 15 days and now She is frustrated being so sedated she did not want any more pain medication, so she told them only Tylenol, so they gave her Tylenol, and then all the the pain was so hard on her, she had to have painkillers and she finally went to sleep after whirling around in her head about what this situation means to her. Before she fell asleep she seemed calmer, the advise the nurse told her seemed to help her clarify her direction and she calmed herself and fell asleep.
• At this time she has blood clots in her lungs, the contusion on her forehead is looking better, the MRI shows no blood clots in her head. You have to gown up with PPE, due to an over abundance of ekoli due to her punctured intestines. Her stumps have a lot of sutures and scabbing. and that is so hard for her to see.
• Thank you all for your love and support. I have told her about everyone’s generosity, and she is overwhelmed and appreciatve by all the love! I am heading to the hospital soon, I will continue to let her know how you all care for her and love her dearly!  All the finest wishes everyone, Sherry
• https://gofund.me/0c3aa9a0
• (I donated. Every little bit helps.) Love/Fl!p

FOUND WALLET

I found a wallet on my walk around the outside of Elizabeth Park on Monday. It’s a trifold black leather wallet with an insignia stamped on it. It looked like it had been rifled through and discarded, so possibly stolen.

There is one card left with a name on it, so it’ll be easy to identify. Please email bhamscot@gmail.com, or text or call 360-318-3815 to ID and claim. This and the superhero wallet I found last week will be surrendered to the police some time next week if I don’t hear anything to the contrary. ~ Leslie Glen, Elizabeth Street

DOTTY DALE MEMORIAL

July 31 at 2:00 at the Congregational Church on Cornwall. If you knew and loved her, you’re welcome. Unfortunately, not too many of her family will be here- some live in other countries and can’t travel, some have very young kids and are hesitant to jump a plane with Covid still such an issue.  

HOMELESS

Water, batteries, bug spray, sunscreen. Lots and lots of water. You can drop these here for pick-up. If anyone wants to cook, we can mentor you and give you pots, to-go containers and ingredients. We can always use fresh cooks!

BUBBLE WRAP

Want a couple of boxes of packing material?  We have a box of very high end, harder plastic, bubble wrap and a second box of regular bubble wrap and some styrofoam peanuts.  ~ Tina Martin saypie@msn.com

SHORT TERM RENTAL NEEDED

We’re a family of 4 & have lived in Columbia for 13 yrs. We will be doing a pretty big home renovation project this fall. We’re hoping to stay close-by while the work is being done so we’re looking for a 3-4 month rental this fall (Sept-Nov or Dec). 2-3 bedrooms would be great. Please contact me at wmczopp@gmail.com. Thank you! ~ Wendy Czopp

(I know these folks personally, and I would rent to them in a heartbeat if I was going to be away. Great folks! ~ Love/Fl!p)

NEED TEMPORARY RENTAL

Hello! Need a temporary house/apt sitter? Have a house, apartment or room to rent that allows for a medium sized dog? Could you use a dog sitter to boot? I’m newly arrived to WA, waiting to move into my long term home, looking for some housing for Sept and October. I’m searching for jobs teaching science in the area, love to explore the trails with my 3yr old rescue pup and hope to rent while possibly dog sit, water your yard, keep up, safeguard your home, or anything that can help us both.  Thanks ~Mara Dobrov  maradobrov123@gmail.com

HOUSESITTER NEEDED

For part/all of mid-August to mid-September to care for gentle and calm adult cat and beautiful yard/garden in the Birchwood area. Stipend available.  360-296-4348 ~ Peggy Allen

HOUSE SITTERS AVAILABLE

Hi neighbors.   Out oldest daughter and her husband, Jessika and Andrew , will be visiting us August 6 to the 16 (possibly a little longer). It would be great to have them in the neighborhood.  So, if anyone needs house sitting during any of those dates, please let me know. They do not have any pets, but could take care of your dogs but not cats due to a cat allergy. Or if you know anyone anywhere in the Bellingham area that needs house sitting, that would work also.  Thank you!    Jana Williams on Walnut.   360-920-5518.  Call or text.   

RECIPE FOR. CARAMELIZED ONIONS

Recipe, also a snapshot of how my mind works…

Someone asked again about how I make caramelized onions. Here is some more detail: I do 10# at a time. I cool them down afterwards and store in the freezer in gallon ziploc bags, which I use over and over for years. I spread the cooked onions 1/4″ to 1/2″ thick so I can just break off a chunk any time I want some, and it thaws really quickly. I’ve tried oven and instant pot recipes, but so far I just get out my two big 10″antique cast-iron skillets and spend an hour or so reducing the chopped or sliced onions to “deep mahogany brown goo.” I usually add garlic too. I start frying as soon as the first onion is cooked, and keep adding more as I cut. By the time I add the last onion, the rest have cooked down enough that all 10 – 12 pounds fit in my two skillets. By the time I’m done, the onions can all fit in one pan. I start with different fats depending: olive oil for vegans, or butter, or bacon. I use water or white wine to deglaze the pan, depending on what I want to do with the onions later. I listen for the pitch of the sizzle and if it sounds too hot, or the onions start sticking, then it’s time to add a few tablespoons of water or wine or whatever before it burns. The liquid softens and boils off the sticky bits. I also prepare some batches with sesame oil and fresh grated ginger, with a little fish sauce & soy sauce in water for deglazing. I’ve currently got a bag or two of each style in the freezer. Some for stir fry, some for soups, stews, casseroles, sauces, stuffing & gravy. I haven’t been bothering with the vegan version lately because I’m just feeding me and Zeke. The bacon version is amazing to spread in a grilled cheese sandwich before cooking.

RADIO FREE FL!P

MORE WOOD

Herdman, Hills & Mangsen

My son Jon just sent me a video of the 6 cords of firewood he split and stacked at home in north Ontario. So I thought of this song, which I heard Larry Hanks and Laura Smith sing back when they lived in the Columbia Neighborhood. A lot more of us a lot more of us heated with wood back then. Oh, that’s Jon Auer of the Posies. Some of you probably know that band. This isn’t them signing the song though.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-Pdg7GmLH0

Love/Fl!p

ELIZABETH PARK CONCERT TONIGHT

Thursdays 6 – 8 PM At The Gazebo (with food and dessert!)

July 22  HIGH MOUNTAIN STRING BAND, Bellingham based Progressive Bluegrass Band

LANDSCAPER ACCIDENT UPDATE

Trigger warning: Injuries

July 19th: Some good news, Kim was taken out of ICU, she is still very sedated and still is not aware of the extent of her injuries, she knows she was in an accident, and responded that she did understand she had been in an accident. Kim had a hit to her head due to a ladder that was in her truck flew back and hit her in the head on impact. They did an MRI and we are waiting for the results. They hope to give Kim an epidural to block any pain from her injuries in the lower half of her body, so they can help her sit up when they are able to give her an epidural.

Kim’s son Lee and his wife Bobbie have been working hard taking care of business. Lee has been down to HarborView Hospital most days and coming back up to help stay on top of Kim’s affairs. Her grandchildren have done a great job taking good care of the animals and her home.

When Kim is lucid and communicating and we tell her of all your love and support, it will most likely show how many people helped get her back to living a new way of life. She has a long way back. I know our donations will make a huge difference. We are still hoping people keep sharing this “Go Fund Me” page, as much as you can, to help her not lose what she has worked so hard for and keep her bills paid. Thanks again so very much. Sherry

https://www.gofundme.com/f/kim-eagle-lost-her-le

Scroll down the link to the organizer, and there is s square labeled “Contact” which you can use to contact Sherry directly. I hope you can keep sharing this GoFundMe. Still haven’t learned more about the driver who hit her.

HOMELESS

AAA batteries (and some AA) are an ongoing need. Also tents. If you’re upgrading, consider donating your old one. Thank you!

There have been a number if unhoused neighbors that have gotten housing recently and who are feeling challenged with the transition to be stable. We’re looking for cooks/ outreach that would be interested in bringing a few meals a week to these newly stable individuals/ families. Total maybe 6 meals over two weeks time.

AGGRESSIVE CHILD FEEDBACK

From Jason Quick, school counselor (and one-armed juggler)

I’m writing because it seems that something important got left out of your advice for the adult working with an aggressive toddler.  

I agree with setting loving limits, playing  games that put the child in positions of power (while making sure the child knows that you are a capable and powerful protector/advocate), not tickling (tickling is often nonconsensual harassment that confuses our messaging around healthy sexual behaviors), and making sure that you are always relationship building.  

What was left out…demonstrating and teaching pro-social behaviors! Many children invent aggressive solutions to problems when they don’t know what to do. “I want that toy”, “I’m overwhelmed with all of these people”, “I don’t want to wait for a turn”, “I don’t like the way that kid is looking at me”, “I feel unimportant” are all situations that young people (and a lot of older people) don’t have a toolkit of pro-social behaviors to address.  Teaching pro-social strategies for getting your needs met in times of low stress is really important, otherwise you’re just waiting for the child to invent a behavior that is not intuitive and not easy to observe in the people around you. Once you’ve taught skills for handling these situations it’s much easier to step in as the protector and remind a child which skill to use. Also, be on the lookout for pro-social behavors so you spend more time catching a child doing the behaviors you want to see and less time catching them doing something wrong.

Thanks for being a powerful teacher and advocate in the world; I hope this note comes across as a helpful addition to your strong advice to an adult trying to help a child become the best version of their self. ~ Jason Quick

MICE IN CARS

I had my oil changed today and the engine filter had been damaged by mice.  I was told there is a bigger population of births this year because people were not moving around as usual because of COVID.  The remedy is peppermint spray in the engine and front wheel wells.  Reapply about once a week. I’d never had a mouse problem in my engine in the 25 years I’ve lived here. Thought I’d pass on. ~ Katy Velasquez, Lynn Street

ANNIVERSARY

Zeke and I are celebrating 23 years today and tomorrow. I think we’re going to get dressed up in our wedding outfits (they still fit!) and find a nice place to go out to dinner where we can sit outside.

RADIO FREE FL!P

MY LAGAN LOVE

From the recording Aniar released in 2020. Peadar MacMathuna,  guitar. Richard Scholtz, autoharp. Jon Sampson, bass.

Helen Scholtz, images & visions. Richard Scholtz editing.

For more about Peadar:  https://peadarmacmathuna.com/

For more information about Helen: https://helenscholtzphotography.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkaT2hA6kQU

Love/Fl!p

I am unable to make links work on my blog tonight. Darn!

INJURED LANDSCAPER UPDATE
(Trigger Warning: Injuries)
Friday July 9, a woman who has worked as a landscaper in our neighborhood for 3 decades was struck by a driver on Eldridge and seriously injured. She was flown to Harborview Hospital in Seattle, where she has undergone multiple surgeries, including amputating both legs. I heard this week that Kim had been taken off oxygen and survived that. The Herald. is still working on the story, and will keep me in the loop. I received this message yesterday morning about a GoFundMe for the landscaper.
Hello, my name is Sherry Boyd-Yost.
To my horror, I was informed my best friend Kim Eagle of “Kim’s Care Gardening Service” was working at a client’s property and loading equipment into her vehicle, when a driver apparently fell asleep at the wheel and smashed right into her, amputating one of her legs. After being resuscitated and air lifted to Harborview Hospital in Seattle she went immediately to surgery, but they were unable to save her other leg and it was amputated as well.
What she is in for is waking to not knowing what happened to her, and finding she has lost her legs from just above her knees. She also suffers a broken pelvis and punctured intestine. She will not be able to continue her business and her income is gone. Months or years of therapy face her, and expenses getting her through this huge life change.
Kim has always been a vital person, loving nature and animals. She has a horse, donkey, four dogs, a fish named Paku, and a parrot.
She has a long way to get home.
I am starting this GoFundMe to help her get through this very tough time that lies ahead. she is a beautiful, earth loving, hard working woman! A person I love so dearly! Thank you for your help!
I also heard from Katie, who set up the first GoFundMe:
I am transferring the funds raised so far to this other account her best friend will be administering. A different GoFundMe is now set up for Kim and here is the link.
https://gofund.me/0c3aa9a0
I have donated, and hope others will too. Every little bit helps.
I found the file number for this wreck on the police daily report but can’t find a way to access the report online: 21B37906. Can anyone help with information on the driver?
Reported: Jul 9 2021 10:18AM
Location: 2000 BLK ELDRIDGE AVE
Offense: VEHICULAR ASSAULT
Case #: 21B37906

ELIZABETH PARK CONCERTS
Thursdays 6 – 8 PM At The Gazebo (with food and dessert!)
July 22 HIGH MOUNTAIN STRING BAND, Bellingham based Progressive Bluegrass Band
July 29 TRACY SPRING AND JEZEBEL’S MOTHER, Rootsy – bluesy – lively – lovely
August 5 D’VAS AND DUDES, Country folk, Rock, Blues, and Boogie Woogie
August 12 4TENS BAND, Fun Classic Rock Party Music
August 19 THE SWEET GOODBYES, Folk/Pop
August 26 CRAIGO’S PLANET GROOVE, Grateful Dead meets New Orleans Funk
September 2 BANDZANDT, The County’s Happiest Rock Band

PRIMARY ELECTION
The smaller the turnout for an election, the larger the impact each voter can have. This is the big one in terms of your own influence!
Ballots have already been sent out. If you haven’t received yours, contact the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office at https://www.whatcomcounty.us/1732/Current-Election
Voter registration and address changes online or by mail must be received at the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office by July 26. Visit our office to register to vote or change your address by 8:00 pm Election Day. Here’s where you can register online:  VoteWA.gov
The Auditor’s office has online information. League of Women Voters has online forums and other information: https://www.lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org/welcome-1

LITTLE FREE ART GALLERIES
Here is information about the FLAG (Little Free Art Gallery) in Columbia neighborhood on West Street and Eldridge Avenue.
The Little Free Art Gallery is near the corner of West Street and Eldridge Avenue. It’s the same concept as a little free library, but for art. There are many creative, talented, generous artists of all ages, amateur, dabbling, professional contributing to and collecting from the gallery. I would encourage everyone to come by for a visit! It has been a daily delight to see the creativity and playfulness of this neighborhood and beyond, and to see artists connecting to other artists via the gallery. So fun! There is also another gallery in the Broadway Park neighborhood if you want to create your own art walk.
There is also a ‘free’ supply and kit box. Currently there are some coloring pages in there. I hope to add some more supplies to it in the next couple of weeks, as my day job and summer schedule allow. If you want to know the WHOLE story, Whatcom Talk wrote a really nice article.

Katrina Lyon’s Little Free Art Gallery Sparks a Miniature Arts Renaissance in the Columbia Neighborhood

There is also a Little Free Art Gallery on Connecticut near Victor, provided by Eberhard Eichner, who does the Pappenspeil plays. And a Poetry site at 1700 W North Street at Utter. What else am I missing?

SQUALICUM CREEK RESTORATION
The City, partner organizations, and the community have worked hard to improve water quality and restore habitat in the Squalicum Creek watershed to protect this important natural space for fish, wildlife, and people. Learn about these efforts in this new video and at cob.org/squalicum-creek.
Watch the video below or at www.youtube.com/watch?v=sO3yKsFrdC8.

LOST DRIVER’S LICENSE
A friend of mine who is visiting from BC dropped her drivers license when she was out running today. Her name is Jamee Brotherton. I live at 2731 Walnut Thank you ~ Michael

FOUND SUPER HERO WALLET
Superhero wallet at Columbia school yard on the “portables” side. E-mail me at bhamscot@gmail.com or call or text 360-318-3815 to identify and claim it!
You could say what color it is, who the superhero is or what is in it, or all three! ~ Leslie Glen, Elizabeth Street

CAT FOSTER?
My husband and son and I are moving to Iceland for the next year, leaving August 2nd. We’re looking for someone to foster our cat while we’re gone. I wonder if you know of anyone who would enjoy a snuggly lap cat, indoor only? He’s a year and a half old and very timid. He can’t be in a home with dogs, but another mellow cat might be okay. He likes kids. ~ Laura Engelhoff engel.hugh@gmail.com

SHORT TERM RENTAL AVAILABLE
I’m looking for someone to rent a downstairs unit in a two unit house. In this unit, there are two small/medium size bedrooms with carpet and closets, there’s a bathroom with shower (no tub) a small kitchen (has oven, no dishwasher), full size  fridge, a good sized living room and a shared laundry. There’s a big yard. Near Geneva Elementary School. Pets considered. Rental is short term, available now through end of September. $1100/ month. For more details, please contact Arielle by TEXT at 360-540-4847 to arrange further conversation.  Thank you! ~ Arielle Stein

MUSICAL FAMILY RENTAL WANTED
My dear friends and bandmates Brian Dolphin and Elizabeth Laprelle, and their 19 month old Noah, are looking for housing in Bellingham starting September 1st! Two bedrooms, under $1600/month (ideally closer to 1000-1200) somewhere in town. They would prefer their own house, apartment or mother-in-law, but sharing with the right roommates could work too. I am so excited to welcome these wonderful friends and musicians to the community in Bellingham. Right now we are having a music residency (also with Annie Schermer) where I live on Waldron Island, and we are hoping to find them a good landing spot in Bellingham. Brian is a songwriter, community song leader and audio engineer who will be in his last year of grad school (remote) for ethnomusicology. Elizabeth is a ballad singer, banjo player and music teacher. They are parents to a very sweet boy who will be 2 in November. Please forward this e-mail to any friends you think of, as it can be hard to find things simply through craigslist. We appreciate your assistance!

SHORT TERM RENTAL WANTED
Seeking a short term 2+ bedroom home for my mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and two well behaved pets starting in early August. If you have a comfortable place for them to stay while they house hunt for their forever home in Bellingham, please reach out to me at korey.krause2@gmail.com.
Appreciate any help!
Korey Krause
Elm Street

AGGRESSIVE CHILD?
I had a question from a far-away friend, and decided my answer to him could be useful to more of you. I’ve expanded it somewhat.
“Hi Flip! An 18-month-old toddler who likes to hit other kids. Throws things at them. I take his hand, look at him severely, and tell him “No!” Am I doing the right thing?”
Ah!!! You’re right to set a limit, but it will take much more than that. Fortunately this one is still very young. You can make a HUGE difference for him.
He’s feeling intolerably disconnected from others. It’s time to start, yourself, connecting with him through play, at moments not when he is in crisis. Even a few minutes of vigorous play, several times a week at least. Daily would be better. Play that puts him in charge, in a powerful position, even for a few minutes.
You’re the big, clumsy, confused, well-intentioned adult who can’t quite catch him as he runs away, who wants him desperately but can’t quite catch up as you lumber behind him. Find things that bring laughter, and then keep the laughter coming. (But no tickling, none at all! Trust me on this one.) It’s the laughter you’re looking for. Build closeness over time. There’s no instant fix. It’s about the relationship.
From that close relationship, you can kindly set limits, without harshness. None of us got such kind, loving limits – especially not us White people from the US. But it can be done. Move right in close and say, “No dear. I can’t let you do that,” in the warmest, calmest, most loving tone. That’s something you can do even today. Put your body between him and those he’s trying to harm. Physically keep him from hurting others. Promise him that you won’t let him hurt others, and that no one needs to be hurt in order for him to heal.
And he will melt down when you bring him the limit lovingly. All the horrible tensions inside will boil up and pour off him. He’ll be on the ground, screaming and flailing around. At this point, you move in even closer. Offer eye contact. He won’t be able to meet your loving eyes, but you stick with it. Right in close. He’ll probably say he hates you, and scream that you’re hurting him. Be ready to spend an hour or more while the waves of anguish roll off him.
Eventually he’ll reach the point where he can meet your eyes without falling apart again. At this point, he’s done, and will head off to play in a far more relaxed way. You, on the other hand, may need an adult to listen to your own feelings!
Between the attacks, limits, and melt-downs: play, play, play! Be delighted to see him each time you meet. Flirt with him. Over a few months you will see this child blossom. Reach out to other adults to join you in this project.
His parents also need your kind, warm attention. Somewhere in the young one’s life, there is an overwhelmed adult passing on their own pain. The adult isn’t bad. Just in pain. They also need to be listened to. And taught new parenting skills – these ones: play that puts the child in charge, setting kind limits and then staying close and listening through the melt-down. Every parent wants closeness with their children. It won’t work to come in with harsh judgements on anyone. It really won’t help.
There’s a website and a book. The woman that taught me these skills is Patty Wipfler, from California. She got in there with me and my sons, in person, up to the elbows, many decades ago. Her website is HandInHandParenting.org. The book is Listen! It will change this child’s life, and yours. Love/Fl!p

HOMELESS HELP
We particularly need drinking water, bug repellent & sunscreen. It would be good to get a supply of N95 masks in preparation for smoke season. 100 masks would be a beginning. Every little bit helps. And we still need more cooks. Thank you! You can always contact me: flip@breskin.com or text 360-671-4511.

FL!P HELP?

We may need a hand, perhaps as soon as tomorrow, Tuesday, evening. We need to move some furniture and belongings in our living room to clear space for window replacement. The date is still tentative. My guess is no more than an hour. All the heavy items are on slides. There are some fragile items on the wall. Zeke and I are both fully immunized, but I am immune compromised and would prefer it if everyone was not only immunized but also still wore masks. flip@breskin.com 360-671-4511

RADIO FREE FL!P

TODAY
I’ve been teaching my 12 year old grand twins to play guitar over Zoom for this past year. Lucy fell in love with this song, so I went looking for it online so she’d have a version to play along with. John Denver did an easy to follow version.

CHALK FESTIVAL FOLLOW-UP

I had a marvelous time last Sunday! Thanks to everyone who participated! We had over ninety households sign up this year to Chalk, make music, offer goodies, show off crafts, and more. I remembered last year, and kept my own Chalking very simple because I knew I was likely to get to see lots and lots of people Sunday morning and early afternoon. And I DID! I got dozens of phone calls, texts, emails, IMs etc. And every one of them started with “Is it too late? Do you have any chalk left?” It kept me laughing, and SO happy to have plenty of chalk. Last minute was not a problem. I got to see a lot of neighbors in person, which I love. And Zeke and I got out Monday morning to see a bunch of chalk. BRAVO!!!  And we even have some chalk stored for next year. Let’s do it again, eh?

CHALK VIDEO

By Mark Allyn  https://vimeo.com/571532068

THANKS TO:

The Eldridge Society for funding chalk! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Jonny Kemp for creating and updating the online map!

Ebb Tide for a sweet noon concert at Elizabeth Park. They’re hoping we can have the big Parade again next year, and they’ll bring back the float/parade wagon!

Deb Valentine, president of the Columbia Neighborhood Association, for putting up signs & sending out messages, for handing out chalk at the Share Shack three Saturdays in a row, and for holding my hand!

Marla Bronstein for reworking the Chalk Talks from last year and for helping spread the word!

AnnMarie Jordan & Jennifer Moon for taking flyers to businesses & helping publicize!

Aaron Silverberg for also handing out chalk at the Share Shack and taking flyers to the Little Free Libraries!

PARADE NEXT YEAR?

In order to have a parade next year, we’ll need a host to organize it. The parade itself doesn’t take a lot, but it does take some. The picnic & games at Elizabeth Park takes more. There are lots of supplies, and a lot of information and support available from folks who’ve done it in years past. Please consider stepping forward! I can steer you to the right folks.

FL!P & ZEKE CONCERT w ROBERT BLAKE

This Sunday July 11, 5 – 7 PM both online & for a small live audience, outdoors. Right here in the neighborhood in the alley between Victor & Williams / W North & Connecticut. We’ll be outdoors and socially distanced. Bring your own chair. Walk up quietly please. Zeke and I are guests at Robert Blake’s Kitchen Table concert. Songs, stories, tunes, and my beloved Columbia Neighborhood Guitar. I’ve been thinking about songs I have sung around campfires for years, but don’t know of any existing recordings by anyone, anywhere. I’ve learned so many songs live, from people I love, and share them the same way. I’d love to see you there! You can tune in, or you can show up in person!

https://www.facebook.com/events/862524784608104

ELIZABETH PARK CONCERTS

Thursdays 6 – 8 PM at the gazebo

July 15 Free Harmony, Classic folk-rock harmonies

July 22 High Mountain String Band, Bellingham based Progressive Bluegrass Band

July 29 Tracy Spring and Jezebel’s Mother, Rootsy – bluesy – lively – lovely\

August 5 D’vas and Dudes, Country folk, Rock, Blues, and Boogie Woogie

August 12 4TENS Band, Fun Classic Rock Party Music

August 19 The Sweet Goodbyes, Folk/Pop

August 26 CraigO’s Planet Groove, Grateful Dead meets New Orleans Funk

September 2 bandZandt, The County’s Happiest Rock Band 

FIREHOUSE ARTS CENTER IN FAIRHAVEN

Saturday July 17 from 4:30-7:30

Open House, Happy Hour, House Party!

LOST HOVERBOARD

At Elizabeth Park — Thursday after the Elizabeth Park concert, my son left his newish hoverboard at/near the basketball court in the park. If anyone happened to find it please let us know. He saved his money to purchase it. We are happy to provide more detail describing it to show ownership. Thanks in advance! ~ Jason Pass, 2627 Utter Street, 360-961-5054

MISSING PACKAGE

A couple days ago someone signed for and took delivery of a package meant for me. I’m guessing that it was someone expecting a package from UPS who signed, thinking it was theirs. If you did get a UPS package meant for Oona Cava, would you contact me at oonazoyasherman@gmail.com, and I can swing by and pick it up? Many thanks, Oona Cava

LIBRARY DIGITAL UPDATES

On the myLIBRO app, Bellingham Public Library patrons can search the catalog, place holds, check their account status and more. 

https://www.bellinghampubliclibrary.org/news/bellingham-library-digital-updates-include-mylibro-3-0-and-gale-research-tools-now-available?fbclid=IwAR0RJnP_ax4tR6tYtd3IaBXULpC4C4XYBxBAoff_LkOU9w2EPcwDy4OQHr

LITTLE FREE ART GALLERY?

I hear there is a Little Free Art Gallery in the Columbia Neighborhood. I’d love the location, and to hear more about it. Thank you! Love/Fl!p

SEEKING NANNY

We are looking for a nanny for 2 children (ages 4 and 1). Nanny duties will include drop off and pickups at daycare (at minimum 2 days a week; 7-8:15am and then 4:30-5:30pm) and once or twice a month evenings. In addition, we would like this person to come a couple times a week to help around the house (2-4 hours a week). Duties include cleaning dishes, picking up around the house, laundry, etc. The ideal candidate should be someone who is passionate about kids, patient and kind. Also they must be ok with dogs, as we have a sweet 10 years dog. Pay depending on experience $12-15 per hour. Please contact Alysia Paxton (alysiapaxton7@gmail.com) to apply or with any questions.

HOMELESS HELP

Yes, I’m still involved, and would love any help you can offer. I’m posting far less as I build my health back up, but I’m still doing what I can. Bridge To Services (B2S) has my complete trust. Here’s what’s been going on lately, with ways you can help.

Our “on the ground (otg) “outreach team has been providing meals 7 days a week since October’20.

After the sweep of the City Hall camp Jan.’21, outreach visits increased. We currently supply meals to 6 different locations in Bellingham.

Thanks to our meal train cooks B2S outreach workers have had the opportunity to distribute food, and, thanks to our regular donors, supplies. Summer supplies include: water, batteries, socks, clothing, snacks, hand warmers, and when available, a tent, tarp and blanket.

Over time incredible connections have been made, a chance to bridge to goals- WA id, employment, pet care, housing lists, family reconciliation…

In collaboration with local nonprofit, HomesNow, Bridge2services has been able to participate in the approval of several tenting neighbors to residents at HomesNow tiny village. Since moving in one person has found employment and holds a management position in the community.

Thanks to all who contribute to the strength of our bridges, from meals to applying for WA IDs, otg support to supplies. All your efforts are seen and appreciated!

For regular outreach updates please join our facebook community at Bridge2services. We would love to hear from you in the comments

*Donate
~ water
As the sun shines, water needs increase. Outreach goes through 1 to 2 flats of water on sunny days.
~ tents & tarps
Weekly relocating of camps by the city has increased needs for tents and tarps. Please keep this in mind while upgrading your camping supplies for the upcoming summer adventures.
Donation drop off locations(pls email: servives@bridge2services.com before arriving):

• Bellingham- 3016 Bennet Dr., entrance off Cedarwood
• *Become a Bridge Builder ~ No time to cook or distribute? Let us do that for you. With your monthly financial contribution, we can have the security of consistent funding to make bulk orders of regular supplies we give out
  

  $ Donations: https://donorbox.org/bridge2services

RADIO FREE FL!P

STARS AND STRIPES FOREVER

Guy Van Duser on fingerstyle guitar

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3eBmcwl9h8

Or BoomWhackers! Pretty silly…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YXPiyqLzOU

7/8/2021

ELIZABETH PARK CONCERT TONIGHT!

Thursday July 8, 6 – 8 PM at Elizabeth Park Gazebo

It’s going to be a beautiful afternoon for an outdoor show! Join us in the Columbia neighborhood today for Pacific Twang. Juanita’s and Edaleen Dairy will be serving up dinner and dessert or bring your own picnic dinner! See you later!!

PRIMARY ELECTION AUGUST 3rd

Ballots mailed July 14

We The People vote, and it matters who we vote for. To do this well, we need to understand just who we’re voting for. Here are ways to find out. Be a citizen! Time to do our research!

Online Voter’s Guide for this Primary Election: https://voter.votewa.gov/GenericVoterGuide.aspx?e=870&c=37#/

To register to vote, or check your registration:  VoteWA.gov

Candidates Forums: See them for yourself. https://www.facebook.com/LWVbellinghamwhatcom

ADOPT A TRANSITIONER FOR 2 WEEKS

My vision is a family adopts a newly housed person/ family for 2 weeks. Helps them feel welcome. Brings them a meal 3x a week. We can help with ingredients and delivery if needed. To volunteer, contact Lorelei Bowers – loreleib@thebridgehope.com

LARGE ANTIQUE & MOVING SALE!

Friday July 9th from 7:30-1:00 only!! Antique kitchen cupboard, antique camelback trunk, antique dolls and crocks, many more antiques, too many to list. Tools, hardware, tables, books. You name it we got it! Please come and help us get ready for the move. 2823 Walnut St  ~ Carol Blaney

MARIE EATON & GEOF MORGAN

Friday, July 9, 6 -8 pm. Firehouse Arts Center 1314 Harris Ave

Songs of Home, Heart & Hope

No cover, Limited Seating. First come. 

GARDEN SWAP

July 10th  2-4pm at the Share Shack. No minimum is required. Anyone can attend even if it’s just to learn about gardening and see how we swap/trade/gift. ~Aaron Siilverberg

FL!P & ZEKE w ROBERT BLAKE

Sunday July 11, 5- 7 PM both online & for a small live audience, outdoors.

Right here in the neighborhood. Bring your own chair. Contact me for location. Zeke and I are guests this Sunday at Robert Blake’s Kitchen Table concert. Songs, stories, tunes, and my beloved Columbia Neighborhood Guitar!

https://www.facebook.com/events/862524784608104

RENTAL WANTED

My cousin Bobbie is moving here in late summer or early fall, as her move-in date is flexible.  She will pay up to $1500 mo. and prefers either a 2 bedroom house or a basement rental within a 5 mile radius of Columbia.  She is a young and active senior who lives alone and does not smoke or own pets.  She also prefers existing appliances, as well as washer & dryer, and garage or off street parking.  Please call or text her at 310-614-3192. ~ Michael Berres, 360 393 6802

RADIO FREE FL!P

RED RIVER VALLEY

Steve Lalor, acoustic guitar

When I was a child, everyone in the US knew this song. We had music in the schools and everybody learned it. I believe this to be one of our greatest cultural treasures. If you know it, please teach others to sing it. Let’s not lose it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKv1oibpRr4&list=PLxB4R7YprUuerBBFEMN1oW27d2V5C22IZ

CHALK FESTIVAL TODAY!

https://columbianeighborhood.org/chalk/

I still have plenty of chalk for you. We’ve got 70 households signed up to chalk, play music, sell crafts, feed us goodies, so many things! There’s a brand new toy exchange shed at Victor & the alley north of Jefferson. We’re going to take some chalk over as another pick-up point.

To pick up from me, call first if you can to let me know you’re coming, then head over to 2518 Cherry Street. I’ve got some great bright colors this year.

ELIZABETH PARK

There will be a free concert from noon to one at Elizabeth Park with an ensemble from the Bellingham Community Band. They’re called Ebb Tide. Zeke will have his contra-alto clarinet, to keep the horns company. Please remember to socially distance.

TOUR

Then go home and finish your Chalk, and/or go cruise to see what’s happening. Bicycles are a great way to travel since this is not a small neighborhood and fun will be scattered all over it. I’d love it if you’d decorate both your transport and even yourselves. Be part of the show!

SIGN UP HERE

https://columbianeighborhood.org/chalk/

Click on the link, then scroll down and click on the form. That information comes to me. I’ll be checking throughout the day and getting your dot onto the map. If you need help signing up, call me at 360-671-4511 or email me at flip@columbianeighborhood.org.

THE MAP

It’s the same link. You can even access it on a smart phone.

https://columbianeighborhood.org/chalk/

Keep scrolling clear down to the bottom to see what all the little dots on the map mean. All the different shades of blue dots are for Chalk. The gold ones are Little Free Libraries. And the pink ones are Everything Else: music, crafts, food, plants, toys… Click right on the dots (you can expand the map) to see the descriptions. Then follow the fun!

Thank you so much. See you there!

RADIO FREE FL!P

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME

A kinda sweet clip of a song that everybody still seems to know. You may have even heard of some of the singers.

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

Love/Fl!p

CHALK FESTIVAL TOMORROW!!!

Chalk! Live Music! Crafts! Plants! Costumes!

columbianeighborhood.org/chalk.

Please join us tomorrow,  July 4th, to play with chalk on the sidewalk in front of your own home. This is for all ages, from pre-schoolers to adults, beginners to professionals. No skill is required.

Chalk in the morning. Last year we had everything from hopscotch squares to vivid peacocks & dragons. There were vines clear down the street, house to house.

At noon, a group from the Bellingham Community Band will play at Elizabeth Park. Socially distance, please.

And then we can all dress up and tour the neighborhood for the afternoon and early evening to see our fun creations! Musicians are encouraged to sign up to play from their front porches. Crafters, artists, gardeners etc can sign up to display & sell their wares. Bicycles are a great way to get around.

How to get on the map: Click on the link to columbianeighborhood.org/chalk. Scroll down and click the button to fill in the sign-up form. This will collect your contact information (which we will only use to coordinate with you and will never share or exploit in any way), and the location where you plan to chalk/play music, etc. We will add your location onto the map, and a description if you’d like to add one.

Last year we found that the more houses on a block signed up, the more folks came to see what was happening there. Invite your neighbors and sign up together!

https://columbianeighborhood.org/chalk

We have about 50 households signed up so far. There’s still plenty of room for you! And we still have lots of chalk.  There will be live music from front porches, driveways, and Elizabeth Park at noon (take a picnic?) Crafts. Plants. Food! Go to the map and look for the little dots. Blue is chalk. Pink is music, art, crafts, plants, all sorts of stuff! Click on the dots to read what’s happening at that location, even from your smartphone. Bicycles are a great way to get around to see it all. Decorate your bike!

It’s not too late to sign up and join in!

https://columbianeighborhood.org/chalk

Chalk: There’s a place on the sign-up page to request chalk if you need it. There will be volunteers from the neighborhood association distributing chalk on today at the Share Shack, 2000 W Connecticut, between 1:00 & 3:00 PM. You can also get chalk from Flip. Phone or text 360-671-4511 to set up a time.

NO CONCERT POPSICLES (Wah!)

We have had two employees call in and not able to work. We unfortunately don’t have anyone that can make it there now. We are very sad we can’t. If we can find anyone else that can do it we will call call you ASAP.  Thank you and hopefully we can get there. ~ West Coast Pops

HOWEVER! If you look at the map there are neighbors with ice cream, lemonade, raspberries… all sorts of goodies!

https://columbianeighborhood.org/chalk

NEWLY HOUSED HOMELESS NEIGHBORS

Need furniture, goods, and temporary meals

Bridget Congo is  an amazing Community Helper Admin and she works at Opportunity Council. Her department is working on getting 14 currently homeless community members into the new Samish Way Commons Building. Many of these chronically homeless folks have no household goods at all. One person signed their lease last week!This is life-changing for these community members, many of whom have been literally homeless 10+ years! All of them are trying to get settled at once, instead of coming into a situation with neighbors ready to welcome them. Some are individuals and some are families. Homelessness is very stressful, and so is moving and getting set up. We’d like to help folks get settled ,over the next two weeks by providing meals up to 3x a week (but we’ll take even one meal, once, if that’s what you can offer!). That’s 6 meals total meals over that 2 week period per person or family. We’re looking for cooks. We can help provide ingredients and even pick-up the meals. It’s a short-term but immediate project. Can you help?

Contact Lorelei Bowers for cooks: loreleib@thebridgehope.com

Contact Bridget Congo for furniture and goods:  (Whoops! This part is coming soon. Please wait for it.)

https://invisiblepeople.tv/from-homelessness-to…/amp/

SMOKE

Smoke from wildfires in British Columbia was drifting over Western Washington on Friday, July 2, and was expected to linger until Saturday, July 3, but it remained in the upper atmosphere and wasn’t affecting air quality near the ground, according to the Northwest Clean Air Agency’s website, which showed “good” readings across Whatcom County.

https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Bellingham&state=WA&country=USA

LIVE MUSIC

MARIE EATON & GEOF MORGAN

Friday, July 9, 6 -8 pm. Firehouse Arts Center

1314 Harris Ave

Songs of Home, Heart & Hope

No cover, Limited Seating

First come. 

FL!P CONCERT w ROBERT BLAKE

I have been invited to join one of Robert Blake’s Kitchen Table concerts, on Sunday July 11, both online & for a small live audience, outdoors. Right here in the neighborhood. Check with me if you’re interested in attending in person. Songs, stories, tunes, and my beloved Columbia Neighborhood Guitar!

https://www.facebook.com/events/862524784608104

RADIO FREE FL!P

MY STREET

Malvina Reynolds

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dl5A-QUcdAY

Love/Fl!p

HOME!

Finn has been found and is back home, safe and sound. Thank you all so much for your help!  ~ Hope

ELIZABETH PARK CONCERT TOMORROW

6 – 8 PM. Y’all come!

CHALK FESTIVAL SIGN UP!

This Sunday, July 4th. Walk out your front door and decorate your sidewalk with chalk! You can pick up chalk from me at 2518 Cherry. Pretty please sign up on the map so we can look to see where all the excitement will be. Call me  if you need help signing up.  Play live music on your front porch, sell crafts and plants, offer a garden tour. Decorate your bikes, trikes, cars, and wonderful selves when we go for a tour to add to the fun. Invite your neighbors. Collaborate! Invite your friends to help us celebrate our neighborhood!l ~ Love/Fl!p  360-671-4511

https://columbianeighborhood.org/chalk/

RADIO FREE FL!P

HOME

Karla Bonoff (and that’s Nina Gerber on guitar…)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLx8bHv7KV4

Love/Fl!p

 

MISSING TEEN

Finn (Armstrong) – age 13, a Columbia neighbor on Williams Street, hasn’t been home since Tuesday around 1:30 pm. He left wearing a white tshirt and grey pants. He has dark short hair, and is about 5’9. Please keep an eye out for him in the Bellingham area, and possibly south of the city, and please share in your circles. Contact Nita Harker Armstrong at 360 820 2690 or on fb, @bringfinnhome on instagram. Thank you

There is a recent photo of Finn with his cousins on this link:

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10165228025340401&set=gm.10159673907505166

ELIZABETH PARK CONCERTS

Tomorrow, Thursday July 1st 6 – 8 PM 

Cheryl Hodge Trio 

Free – 6 – 8pm, exciting Thursday summer outdoor concert in Elizabeth Park (Bellingham, WA) features high energy jazz, blues and R&B by singer/pianist Cheryl Hodge, bass great Dylan Hodge and drummer extraordinaire Jerry Steinhilber! Sponsored by Bellingham Parks and the Eldridge Society for History and Preservation.The park has requested that anyone not feeling well that evening should stay home. 

As of July 1, 2021, we (The Eldridge Society and Bellingham Parks and Recreation) will NOT be requiring reservations for the Thursday night concerts.

We expect our audiences to:

1. PLEASE  Self-regulate and social distance and do not pack areas.  Fully vaccinated folks should feel safe outdoors

according to CDC guidelines. Unvaccinated people should be more vigilant about distancing themselves from others.

2. PLEASE Wear a mask if not fully vaccinated, and

3. PLEASE STAY HOME if they don’t feel well.

We, and the city and the state, will keep a careful eye on Covid spikes and will honor any adjustments in Covid guidelines. Hopefully with residents continuing to vaccinate, we will all start to relax even more.

We don’t want to take two steps forward and five steps back!! SEE YOU AT THE PARK!!!

 https://cob.org/events

CHALK FESTIVAL

This Sunday, July 4. Please sign up ASAP! Invite your neighbors. Come get chalk from me. Fl!p 360-671-4511

https://columbianeighborhood.org/chalk/

AIR QUALITY

Isn’t it nice that the weather has cooled off? Now if we can just keep fireworks from setting the world on fire and initiating Smoke Season! This website offers both current air quality conditions and predictions. We’re fine today, though a small smoke plume blew through from east of the Mountains night before last. I recommend saving this site for future reference.

https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Bellingham&state=WA&country=USA

RADIO FREE FL!P

COTTON EYE JOE (Lullaby)

Dorothy Olsen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEJtM0N29UE

YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE

Johnny Cash

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGa3zFRqDn4

DREAM

Everly Brothers, live in 1960

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTYe9eDqxe8