Posts by Betty Freeman
Mystery Weekend 2023 Prize Winners
2023 MYSTERY WEEKEND WINNERS
Thank you to all the contributors for the wonderful plethora of prizes they supplied for this year’s Mystery Weekend.
If you have won a prize, we will be sending you an email (hope you printed carefully). If you picked up your prize during the reveal, no need to respond.
#1 – Andria Green – 2 night stay in a king room at Saratoga Inn
#2 – Chandra Oakes – 2 night stay at Country Cottage in Langley
#3 – Monica Taylor –1 night stay at Inn at Langley
#4 – Curt Fleck – 2 bottles of wine and a complementary flight from Comforts
#5 – Mary Petkovits – Gift basket of hand made products from Sweet Sisters
#6 – Cecilia Hamill – $100 gift certificate for massage from Christopher Blunt, LMT
#7 – Eric Herrmann – $100 of gifts from Sea Glass Cove
#8 – Ben Bloom – $100 of goodies from Kalypsos
#9 – Sue Kukuk – Jewelry and $50 gift certificate from Foamy Wader
#10 – Sarah Rapacz – Basket of goodies from Wish by the Sea
#11 – Caroline Walls – $50 gift certificate from Grey Horse Mercantile
#12 – Tim Burdick – 2 visitor passes to Earth Sanctuary & $50 gift certificate from Whidbey Island Bank
#13 – Joelle Berry – $50 gift certificate from Braeburn Restaurant
#14 – Victoria Hanson – $50 gift certificate from Fair Trade Outfitters
#15 – Donald Larson – Hand Carved Cutting Board by Bruce Launer from Rob Schouten Gallery
#16 – Sawyer & Jayda – Bag of Goodies from Sea Glass Cove valued at over $100
#17 – Mary Sinclaire – $20 gift card from UltraHouse and $20 Gift Card from Tonic
#18 – Dan O’Brien – Bag of handmade selfcare from Ritual Mischief
#19 – Regina McGary – Bag of Beauty Supplies from Band Box Beauty Supply
#20 – Elisha Lance – $60 Gift Certificate from C’est Moi Salon
#21 – Cindy Essex – $50 gift certificate and ceramic dishes from Artisan Crafted Home
#22 – Jordan Eng – Tasting for 4 people with souvenir glasses from Whidbey Island distillery and $50 gift certificate from WI Bank
#23 – Katie Akers – Tee shirt from Double bluff Brewing and $50 gift certificate from WI Bank
#24 – Tammie Thompson – Box of Chocolates from Sweet Mona’s and $50 gift certificate from WI Bank…
Read MoreMystery Weekend 2023 Solution
Mystery Weekend 2023 Solution
Well Detective Ranger Catchem got quite a surprise Sunday afternoon when he assembled all the suspects in the death of Werner von Tannar. As he brought them into a lineup to reveal the murderer that annoying salesman from ACME Gadgets came on stage with a new “ACME Criminal Detection Device” which he guaranteed would reveal the murderer beyond a doubt by detection either the victim’s DNA on the suspects person but could also find the stolen thumb drive with the landing commands on it.
As he walked down the line the machine alerted on Professor Ariani Falcon but she was dismissed when the DNA was revealed to be on her lips and clothing. That was to be expected since they fell next to each other and she was seen kissing Werner just before the auction.
As the ACME device moved down the line it did not alert until the operator came to Ali Bauhba and Rocky Roads. The device immediately alerted on Ali Bauhba. She had Werner’s DNA on her. She was searched and she had the stolen thumb drive.
As the Langley Police Chief came to arrest Ali and take her away Rocky Roads grabbed Ali’s arm and said that she was innocent in Werner’s death. Rocky said Ali had indeed pushed Ariani to the ground and scratched Werner’s face in anger but Rocky confessed it was him who rubbed the Wonky Weed juice Werner’s neck and face, also pushing in into his mouth. Rocky contended that he did not mean to kill Werner. He did not know Werner would have an anaphylactic reaction to the weed.\
The Langley Police decided to arrest both Ali and Rocky, call their parents, and sort the whole thing out at the Police Station.
It was not politics, nor meat lovers, nor vegans which caused Werner’s death. It was young love!
Information and clues which would have helped you come to this conclusion are:
Story on Page 2 of the Gazette : “Rocketeers Ready…”
And Clues Numbered: 2-8-10-13-14-18-19-23-28-29-36
………………………………..
PHONE SOLUTION
It was not politics, nor meat lovers, nor vegans which caused Werner von Tanner’s death.
It was young love!
Werner was attacked by Ali Bauhba and murdered by Rocky Roads with the use of Whidbey Wonky Weed juice. We hope you had fun during the 38th…
Read MoreMystery Weekend 2023 – Breaking News from the Mysterious Langley Gazette
Mystery Weekend 2023
(Per-order tickets at VisitLangley.com/store)
Breaking News from the Mysterious Langley Gazette
The Langley Gazette will be presenting teasers for the next four months for the 2023 Mystery Weekend
to be held February 25-26, 2023. Here are the first three:
Rocketeers Rejoice
The South Whidbey High School Rocketeer Club Mentor Tara Tesla is
proud to announce that they have been chosen to work with Texas Animal
and Rocketry University Orbital Guidance Center here in Langley once
again.
“This is very exciting for our Club,” Tera told the Gazette, “With one
of our top graduates now at Texas A&R our members are anxious to help
on the orbit corrections again.” The next launch is scheduled for 24
February 2023 and will again involve the delivery of live animals to a
location overseas. The animals to be launched will be a dozen miniature
Longhorn Cattle-Sheep hybrids genetically modified to survive in very cold
climates.
“We are proud to be a part of the Cosmocattle Program,” Tera
beamed.
Famous Professor Has Langley Roots
Professor Sally Mustang, Langley High School Class of 2001, heads
the Bio-Miniaturization Department at Texas Animal and Rocketry
University. She is also co-chair of the University’s cutting edge ‘Orbital
Animal Delivery Project’ in cooperation with the Texas A&R Rocketry
Department. According to the OAD Project Director, Doctor Arian Falcon,
“There would be no OAD Project without Professor Mustang. She is quite
quiet and unassuming at staff meetings but a brilliant dynamo in her
laboratory. Our delivery by rocket of her miniaturized hybrid Longhorn
cattle, or Cosmocattle, last year gave humanitarian meaning to our
Project.”
Werner von Tanner, Langley High School Class of 2021, oversees the
Rocketry Department’s work for the OAD Project because of the
revolutionary delivery system he developed whilst in the Rocketeer Club at
LHS and this has motivated Doctor Falcon to visit Langley in February,
2023. Doctor Falcon told the Gazette, “I am quite anxious to visit Langley
and see the City that gave me both Professor Mustang and my eager
young protégé Werner von Tanner.”
Local Hostels Hostile to Volatile Visitors
Langley Innkeepers are nervous about renting rooms to representatives of The United Islands of the Kithless Archipelago. Known as the “Pirate scourge of the South Indian Ocean,” the UIKA will be sending
a delegation to Langley in February to make their case that the next shipment of ‘Cosmocattle’ …
March Into Spring!
March is the month of budding promise, when Spring starts shyly with crocuses and daffodils, then explodes into brilliant color in April and May. South Whidbey is a gardener’s paradise, offering plenty of places to inspire your garden dreams and delight all your senses.
Feel your cares melt away and your inspiration peak at Bayview Farm & Garden. After strolling the beautiful grounds and the huge greenhouse, relax at the Flower House Cafe with an artisan coffee or homemade scone. Stop by the newly remodeled Garden Shop – bursting with beautiful, bright house plants, a stunning selection of products for the home and a built-in seed wall to fulfill all your garden dreams. Located at Bayview Corner. www.bayviewfarmandgarden.com
Venture Out Nursery is conveniently located on South Whidbey Island at the corner of the Highway 525 and Maxwelton Road.
The nursery was conceived by owners Garth and Molly Heggenes, and Chris and Tina Joselyn as a way to demonstrate their beautiful, unique landscape designs. Rather than relying on computer programs or sketches to show what a landscape would look like, they created a nursery with real examples of beautiful Pacific Northwest gardens.
Venture Out offers a wide variety of plants, from large specimens to tiny treasures. Walk the trails and enjoy the mature trees, large pond, stream, rain garden, rockeries, and water wheel. https://www.ventureoutnursery.com/
Chocolate Flower Farm, located on Saratoga Road just outside Langley, is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. They offer seeds for rare and often exclusive dark colored plants and those that smell like chocolate. The Farm’s most popular plant is Chocolate Cosmos (the flower smells like chocolate), and this year for the first time ever, Chocolate Cosmos seeds are now included in the popular Chocolate Garden Seed Kits.
Chocolate Flower Farm also features chocolate themed products such as their famous Raspberry & Chocolate Jam, Chocolate Candles and Natural Cocoa Butter Body Products. http://www.chocolateflowerfarm.com
Island Art Glass is surrounded by forest, pasture land and two large wetland systems of Audubon birding significance, which deeply influences the art glass they create. Browse their on-site showroom or website and discover items for the garden, the outdoor room, inner patio, stream side or water feature — and the possibility for carryover into the home for special displays. Island Art Glass’s hand-blown and sculpted glass items are handcrafted for durability and lasting enjoyment. www.islandartglass.com
Meerkerk Gardens is open 7-days a week from …
Read MoreShop Local and Show Your Love for Langley Merchants on Valentines Day
As Valentine’s Day approaches, make gift choices that not only show your love for that special someone but for our local merchants as well.
“Every day is a day to celebrate love. Give your sweetie something special every day. The best gift doesn’t come in a heart-shaped box. Time is the most precious gift you can give. However, a box filled with chocolates is a great addition,” said Mona Neubauer, owner of Sweet Mona’s Chocolate Boutique.
Mona offers award-winning handmade chocolates including valentine truffles, heart lollies, boxed assortments and the opportunity to custom-fill a heart-shaped box with your favorites. Order online at https://sweetmonas.com/ or stop by the shop at 221 Second Street in Langley.
Wrap her in warmth with soft, cozy clothing. For example, Fair Trade Outfitters offers a cotton/acrylic sweater (made in Bali) with a big red heart on the front ($115) and a cashmere black and red pashmina ($69). And don’t forget your lovable puppy — wrap him/her in a cozy, fleece lined Buffalo Plaid puppy coat. Fair Trade Outfitters is located at 112 Anthes Ave, Langley.
Flying Bear Farm is a full service floral design studio, specialty cut flower farm and nourishing floral and gift shop at 207 First St. in Langley. Order early for Valentine’s Day, and enjoy free delivery on South Whidbey. All Valentine’s Day offerings will be on their website (http://www.flyingbearfarm.com/) and instore. Flying Bear Farm will also do a gift bundle or basket with items from local stores.
On First Street, Whidbey Island Gem Shop offers precious gemstone hearts for $12.95, while Feather and Fox Printing Company provides custom posters, cards and unique gifts.
Also on First Street, Moonraker Books stocks cards and poetry books to share with your special someone, and Star Store Mercantile has lots of Valentine-themed merchandise and cards, plus clothing and accessories. In the Country has beautiful women’s clothing and accessories.
Prima Bistro and Saltwater Fish House & Oyster Bar have created a romantic Valentine’s date-night dinner for two to enjoy in the comfort of your home. Whether you are celebrating with your special someone on Saturday or Sunday, their coursed menus are packaged and ready to finish at home. Both menus include a 100% premium soy Amber Noir candle from Sukie’s Candle Co. A la carte oysters, wine and cocktails are available as well. Order online at www.primabistro.com by Sunday, February 7th for pick-up at Prima on …
Read MoreLodging Guide
|
Phone | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Ridge at Langley https://www.airbnb.com 360-221-8160 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Langley Motel | info@langleymotel.com | 360-221-6070 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Marty’s Place at Strawberry Farm | www.martysplace.com | 650-533-9564 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Maxwelton Aerie | www.maxweltonaerie.com | 206-819-3710 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Quintessa | www.thequintessa.com | 425-263-1701 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Saratoga Inn | info@saratogainnwhidbeyisland.com | 360-221-5801 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Second Street Suite | secondstreetsuite@gmail.com | 425-754-2601 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sharon’s Cottage | primrose@whidbey.com | 360-730-3722 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunlight Seascape | www.sunlightseascape.com | 206-525-1262 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tara Vacation Rentals | www.whidbeyvacation.com | 360-331-0129 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Whidbey Getaways | www.whidbeygetaways.com | 360-320-9285 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Whidbey Retreats | www.whidbeyretreats.com | 425-990-5701 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Whidbey Wayfarer Beach House | www.whidbeywayfarer.com | 206-427-6109 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
…
Read MoreSign Up For two Exciting New Programs Today
Hello
Business Partners
It’s
unfathomable that it was only last Saturday, that I walked around the village,
along streets full of locals and visitors, speaking to shop owners, who said
they were having a good business day. There appeared to be some small
hope that we would escape the worst of it.
We’re all still reeling at what has transpired in four short days. But, today,
there is no way but forward and, fortunately, we are small and nimble, have a
supportive community and city leaders, and we have a strong brain trust in our
business community.
On Monday I took two proposals to the City Council. They were unanimously
approved 5 to 0. We’ve sought legal opinion and feel we are in the clear to
move forward.
Overview – Proposed Programs
Customer
Retention/Bring Back Gift Certificate Program:
To ensure that visitors and local customers come back to our
businesses once we reopen, we are initiating a customer retention program,
consisting of escalating gift certificates for retail, restaurants and
lodgings.
Langley Virtual Village
“Langley Virtual Village” is a commerce enabled shopping portal, residing on
VisitLangley.com. Each retail, restaurant, service and lodging business will
have the opportunity to have an expanded splash page and, if they choose, up to
10 products for sale.
The programs are explained further below. Both are open to any Langley
business; Chamber membership is not a requirement. If you know a business that
didn’t receive this invitation, please forward it to them.
We are building these programs at an unprecedented speed and know that you will
have many questions, some we may have not thought of ourselves. We will do our
best to answer any questions as you have them…feel free to reach out by phone
or email. If you have suggestions, we’re open to those as well.
Customer
Retention Program Details
Gift Certificates for participating businesses will be sold on the VisitLangley website. The customer will be able to choose the business or businesses they’d like to support with the purchase of a $20, $50, $75 and $100 certificate. The certificate will have a face value of the purchase price at the time of purchase, and an accelerated value of plus 20% if held for 45 days or longer. (A $20 certificate has a $25 value if held.) The customer will also have the opportunity to donate to the business of their choice and forego …
Read MoreShop Locally and Support Small Businesses
By Betty Freeman
Personal service, unique products, supporting social change, reducing one’s carbon footprint, keeping money in the community to enhance our local life — these are all good reasons to shop locally. Small Business Saturday is on November 30, and Langley Chamber of Commerce encourages you to support your local small businesses this holiday season and all year long.
Tourism helps our small businesses in the warmer months, but when winter comes, the good will and loyalty of locals makes all the difference to our shop owners.
Though tourists are naturally drawn to her cozy shop full of pretty things, Lilly Van Gerbig of Fair Trade Outfitters believes it is her local customers who keep her in business.
“We wouldn’t be successful without our loyal local customers,” said Van Gerbig. “We appreciate them so much.”
Fair Trade Outfitters is a little store with a big idea. By purchasing products from third world countries, they support makers who are often seeking to escape lives riddled with violence, human trafficking and poverty. Clothing and accessories found in Fair Trade Outfitters come from such places as Mexico, Peru, India, Central America and Thailand.
For example, metal and bead ornaments are made in Thailand by a company called “Pilgrim Imports.” The artisans of Pilgrim Imports work from their homes in villages in Chang Mai province, often combining family needs with the need to work and earn money. Pilgrim Imports brochure tells this story, which is as applicable here on Whidbey Island as it is in Thailand.
“By tying our business success to the dignity and livelihood of a small community in another part of the world, Pilgrim Imports is both globalized and local at the same time.”
Because of some well-placed national publicity, Chocolate Flower Farm is often a stop for tourists. But whether you’re a tourist or a local, it’s hard to resist Marie Lincoln’s sweet smelling shop. Chocolate Flower Farm showcases homemade products around a universally appreciated theme – chocolate — either the color, the scent, or the flavor. Lincoln grows chocolate colored plants and harvests their seeds for sale, makes chocolate scented candles, and also creates chocolate-raspberry jam and body products.
“The benefit of being a small business owner, especially making your own products, is that you’re too small to be ‘normal,’ but the products you make are unique and not found elsewhere,” said Lincoln.
Lincoln moved to an …
Read MoreState of the City
Over the last year, the City of Langley has made great strides in all aspects of our community development. There are many people who play a vital role in this success. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the many people who work to make that progress in our Village by the Sea.…
Read MoreLangley Meets Tech: Langley Grocery Store Designer Embraces Tech and Island Life
Dan Phillips wears many hats — proud father of three children, bulldog parent, and managing partner of Phillips Enterprises, Inc., a grocery store designing company. His company has designed some of Washington’s most renowned grocery stores and marketplaces, including two Metropolitan Markets, Uwajimaya in Bellevue, and the District Market at the University of Washington.
He does all of this from Langley, Washington, a seaside town located on Whidbey Island that has a population of approximately 1,000 people.
Designing independent mom and pop grocery stores runs in the Phillips family. Lead Designer and Dan Phillip’s dad, Tom Phillips, started Phillips Enterprises in 2005 after leaving the corporate world. He has been in the supermarket and convenience store design industry since 1972.
Tom Phillips runs the business with his wife Cheryl Phillips from Leavenworth, Washington while his sons Dan Phillips and Tim Phillips work from the office in Langley.
Phillips Enterprises has designed stores in other parts of the world, including Paraguay and Kazakhstan.
The company designs each grocery store from the ground up and helps clients customize all aspects of their store from the refrigeration racks to the size of the ladle spoons.
“We hand you a box and you open it up and there’s your grocery store,” said Dan Phillips.
Each family member plays a different role in the company. Tom Phillips is the head designer and interfaces with customers. Cheryl Phillips is the bookkeeper. Tim Phillips works on the computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), marketing, and bookkeeping. Dan Phillips manages the projects, purchases equipments, and markets to new customers.
“Telecommuting allows us to be here and it allows my parents to be over in Leavenworth,” Dan Phillips said.
Each morning Dan Phillips wakes up, cooks his kids breakfast, and kisses his wife, Rachel, goodbye. He makes a five minute commute by foot to his office in downtown Langley where he works on store designs or communicates with customers from all over the country using Skype or Google chat. Sometimes during breaks he takes his bulldog Dudley for a stroll around town.
Langley’s new Gigabit internet speeds up his work, whether he is uploading a file or web chatting with clients.
“It’s really nice to be able to upload a large file to Dropbox in less than a minute,” Phillips said.
Whidbey Telecom’s new Gigabit Internet, also known as the BiG GiG, can reach speeds of up to 10 gigabits …
Read MoreCamping on Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island campgrounds and RV parks are a great option for the budget-conscious traveler! The selection ranges from basic tent camping areas to full-service RV locations. Some sites are adjacent to waterscapes, overlook beautiful vistas, or are nestled in wooded areas convenient to hiking and biking trails. Camping is a perfect way to truly connect with Whidbey Island’s natural beauty.
Washington State Parks Information Line
Phone: 360.902.8844
Available to answer general questions regarding state parks, Discover Pass, overnight accommodations, recreation programs, and seasonal park closures.
Camping / RV Options
Fairgrounds Campground 360.221.7950
Total Sites: 50 RV Hook-up Sites: 40
First come; first served, dump station, open year round except during fair. Has restrooms and showers. Within walking distance of downtown Langley.
Rhododendron Campground self-serve
Total Sites: 15 RV Hook-up Sites: 3
1.5 miles south of Coupeville. RV sites have water ONLY. Vault toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, fireplace rings. Open seasonally. Forest views and connection to Rhododendron Park Trails.
Fort Casey State Park 888.226.7688
Total Sites: 35 RV Hook-up Sites: 14
3 miles southwest of Coupeville. Open year round. No dump station. Has restroom and shower. Water views, on beach.
Fort Ebey State Park 888.226.7688
Total Sites: 50 RV Hook-up Sites: 11
8.5 miles south of Oak Harbor. Open year round. No dump station. Has restroom and shower, one ADA site. Located on bluff with views.
Windjammer RV Park 360.279.4756
Total Sites: 31 RV Hook-up Sites: 31
First come; first served. Tent or RV. Open year round. Downtown Oak Harbor beach. Complete hook-ups, dump station, walking trails, picnic tables, playground, restrooms and showers.
Deception Pass State Park 888.226.7688
Total Sites: 315 RV Hook-up Sites: 134
Approximately 10 miles north of Oak Harbor on SR20. Open year round with a few sites open only seasonally, dump station, a few ADA sites. Forest and water views.…
Mystery Weekend 2017: In Review
AN “UN”CONVENTIONAL MURDER
February 25 & 26, 2017
BASIC STORY
The International Science Fiction Arts & Technology Society was holding their first convention in Langley in late February and the town was full of sci-fi creators and fans. Meanwhile, reports of Sasquatch sightings near Langley enticed Big Foot Friends to town too. Then, on Friday morning, a big furry body is found behind the Saratoga Inn. Was it Big Foot or a big hoax to publicize the sci-fi convention?
Click here to learn more about many of the 2017 suspects.
Click here to learn more about Mystery Weekend on a featured Seattle Refined segment.
Langley invited amateur sleuths to solve the mystery by purchasing a clue map, reading the sensational news stories, picking up clues around town, interviewing a zany cast of suspects and entering a guess to win prizes provided by local merchants.
[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”5″ gal_title=”Mystery Weekend 2017″]
SOLUTION
The Village and residents of Langley were pleased to announce that the big hairy body discovered Friday morning on Second Street was NOT that of the Whidbey Island Sasquatch! Unfortunately it WAS identified as the body of well know Hollywood stunt man, Stone Fissure. It was learned that Fissure had been testing a new Wookie costume.
Fortunately Detective I.B. Fuzz was again able to put the pieces of the puzzle together and Dr. Dolittle was arrested and is being charged with manslaughter. Click here for the detailed solution.…
Read MoreMystery Weekend 2015: In Review
It’s No Laughing Murder
February 21 & 22, 2015
BASIC STORY
Langley’s night life promised to get livelier when a new comedy club opened in this little village by the sea. Everyone in town was polishing their best comic routine for the auditions but when the new club’s has-been headliner was found dead on the doorstep before the club even opened “It’s No Laughing Murder.”
February 2015, Langley needed all the help it could get to solve the 31st in a long line of murders to befall this otherwise peaceful town.
THE CULPRIT
Winnie Burl
[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”3″ gal_title=”Mystery Weekend 2015″]…
Read MoreMystery Weekend 2016: In Review
“MUCH ADO ABOUT MURDER: A Hare-raising Tail”
Langley Mystery Weekend XXXIII
February 27 & 28 2016
BASIC STORY
The seaside village of Langley, on Whidbey Island, was invaded. Not by aliens, not even by tourists, but by ravenous rabbits! These large Lepus were a mutant mix of multiple domestic rabbit breeds which escaped during the Island County Fair several years ago. Unlike the Island’s small the native brown rabbits, these bogie bunnies came in black, white, spotted, angora and short hair. Because of a few “Dutch Giant” Lepus in the mix, the non-native mutants seemed to be getting bigger and more voracious with each generation. They were eating up yards and pastures, digging up lawns and sports fields, and generally wreaking havoc on the village. Opinions varied as to how to stop this plague. Some said, “Feed them to the hungry,” while others thouhgt the fuzzy creatures needed to be loved and protected. Some pleaded for capture, some for capture and sterilization, and others said, “Let them roam free and frolic,” but most were in agreement that something needed be done, ASAP!
[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”4″ gal_title=”Mystery Weekend 2016″]
Then what seemed like the perfect answer to the bunny boondoggle appeared in a proposal from one of Langley’s newest residents. Famed British Shakespearean actor, Sir Laurence Burton, moved to Langley to take up a position as consultant to The Island Shakespeare Festival. In keeping with his British love of all things bucolic he purchased a forty acre farm near Honeymoon Bay. He had no intention of farming until he learned about Langley’s lepus lament. Sir Laurence offered to establish a rabbit sanctuary on his farm. He would pay five dollars for every mutant Langley bunny humanely captured and delivered to his Sanctuary Director. Burton promised to house the Langley Lepus for life in climate controlled hutches with large rabbit fenced pastures in which to roam.
Sir Laurence’s proposition seemed like the perfect solution to the concerns of all sides! So how was it that, on the morning of February 26th, Hagetha Kisstea’s hound, Baskerville, sniffed out the stiff body of the famous Shakespearean actor in a quiet alley of the village?
SOLUTION
We are sad to announce that the person arrested for the murder of British Shakespearean actor Sir Laurence Burton was carpenter, general contractor, and 49er, Joe Curr. According to Detective I.B. Fuzz, these were the clues which …
Read MoreMystery Weekend through the Years
Langley’s Mystery Weekend has been entertaining sleuths of all ages for more than 30 years.
Check out posters and themes of years past below.
Click here for the basic story, solution, and photos.
Click here for the basic story, solution, and photos.
Click here for the basic story, solution, and photos.
We do not have posters for 1985 through 1989,
2001(The Cat’s Revenge) and 2005 (Winner Takes All).
…Read MoreMystery Weekend 2017 Solution
The Village and residents of Langley are pleased to announce that the big hairy body discovered Friday morning on Second Street was NOT that of the Whidbey Island Sasquatch!
Unfortunately it WAS identified as the body of well know Hollywood stunt man, Stone Fissure. It was learned that Fissure had been testing a new Wookie costume designed for him by Natalie Drezed. (CLUE 11 and Coroner’s Report)
Detective I.B. Fuzz was able to discern that Mr. Fissure was on his way home to his yacht moored at the harbor. He was returning early from a night testing of the costume because he had developed a severe reaction to the latex in the new mask Natalie had given him to wear that night. (CLUES 11 & 37 and Coroner’s Report)
As he snuck into town he kept to the bushes until he reached the lawn behind the Saratoga Inn. He was rushing toward Second Street when a very drunk Dr. Claude Dolittle happened to be staggering home from a drinking party at Red Herring’s condo at the harbor. (CLUE 20)
With his determination to capture a Big Foot firmly in his mind, Dr. Dolittle grabbed his tranquilizer dart gun to subdue the beast. However, Dolittle’s drunken state and bad night vision led to him missing with the first (yellow) dart and then accidentally grabbing the much higher dosage (red) dart. (CLUES 8 & 24 + Coroner’s Report (yellow) & Scene of Crime (red))
Unfortunately Dolittle’s aim the second time hit his target right in the heart with a gorilla-sized dose of tranquilizer, killing even a big, strong man like Stone Fissure instantly! (CLUE 16 and Coroner’s Report)
When Doolittle discovered his mistake he ran to his room at the Saratoga Inn and made an anonymous call to 911 telling them he saw what he thought was a dead gorilla behind the Inn on Second Street. He then got into an argument with Bambi Hunter who overheard the phone call and asked what he had done. He was able to gain her promise to keep his mistake secret as long as she did not get accused of the crime. (CLUES 25 & 38 and Langley Gazette Front Page below fold)
Fortunately Detective I.B. Fuzz was again able to put the pieces of the puzzle together and Dr. Dolittle was arrested and is being charged with manslaughter.
Click here for a video of …
Read MoreHow to play Mystery Weekend
Here’s how Mystery Weekend works.
Sleuths come to Langley and line up outside the Visitor and Information Center on Anthes Street starting at 10 a.m. Saturday or Sunday morning, February 25-26. There they buy a clue map for $10 ($8 for seniors and military) and are given a copy of The Langley Gazette with details of the murder.
From there, detectives fan out all over town, visiting the crime scene, picking up clues from participating merchants and interacting with the suspects, who will be in costume and whose photographs will be displayed in the windows of the former Mike’s Place.
Your solution must be entered on the official contest entry form and returned to Mystery Weekend headquarters at 208 Anthes Street by 4 p.m. Sunday. Correct solutions will be placed in a drawing for grand prizes, provided by local innkeepers and merchants. Incorrect solutions are still eligible for other prizes.
The prize drawing will take place after the solution is announced at Langley Middle School auditorium at 5 p.m. on Sunday, February 26. If winners are not present, they will be notified after the finale. The solution will be posted on this website, lcoc24.kinsta.cloud, after the reveal.
Sounds like fun, right? Click here to purchase your tickets now!…
Read MoreAn Un-Conventional Murder comes to Langley
For 33 years, Langley has been the scene of a “murder” in late February. Amateur sleuths from far and wide come to the Village by the Sea to help figure out the latest whodunit. A troupe of seasoned actors takes over the town for two days as the mystery, penned by Loretta Martin, unfolds.
Martin has been writing the mysteries for 18 years. She collects ideas all year for her murder mystery, usually including details of current events. Her story is always full of puns, word play and absurd takeoffs of real people in the news.
“It’s thrilling to see the characters I invent come to life,” said Martin. “It’s the highlight of my year.”
“Loretta sets the table, and we create the buffet. Mystery Weekend allows adults to appear legitimately foolish and everyone contributes to the story she writes. I smile perpetually when I think of the funny situations Loretta invents.”
~J.Scott Williams
aka Douglas Ferr
The 2017 mystery “An Un-Conventional Murder,” inexplicably mixes Sci-Fi and the legendary Big Foot. Langley residents are baffled by large muddy footprints appearing all over town. While some locals have reported sightings of “Big Foot” in the nearby woods, others are saying it’s all a publicity stunt to promote the first International Science Fiction Arts & Technology convention scheduled in Langley the last weekend in February. Convention speakers and attendees and the BFFs (Big Foot Friends) converge on the village. Then, a murder is committed.
This year’s “victim” is Stone Fissure, a character we never meet but who is the owner of an independent stunt production company, “The Hollywood Fall Guys.”
The 2017 cast of characters learned who they are this time the last week of January. Some play recurring roles, but most have a new persona to adopt each year.
“We never know who we’ll be,” said Rachel McDougald, who has participated as a cast member for 23 years. This year she plays Natalie Drezed, a sci-fi movie costume designer looking for her chance to make it big.
“We make a mad dash to the thrift stores for our costumes once we know who we are,” said McDougald. “This year’s story sounds like a lot of fun.”
Rachel’s husband Joe McDougald plays her love interest Al Luzeon, a techno geek who creates spectacular special effects for movies. Their son Sean has also participated in Mystery Weekend since he was an infant, …
Read MoreHoliday Shopping Can Be a Pleasure
For the last few years the town of Langley has promoted a “Deck the Doors” contest where local artists work with the merchants to create special Christmas displays at the entrance to their stores.
The outdoor gallery created by this contest provides bright and colorful holiday decorations through the town. An impartial panel of judges chooses three winners who receive cash prices. The real winners are the visitors to the town.
The top two winners in this year’s contest are Artisan Crafted Home by co-owner/artist Suzanne Healy who created a glorious lighted window with fixtures available at the shop, and Brackenwood Gallery by co-owner/artist Jason Waskey, who created wreaths for the 12 days of Christmas. Third place was shared by four of the stores: Langley Whale Center, Langley Fine Fabrics and Antiques, Roberta and The Star Store.
Nearly every store in the business district participated. The result is a cheerful, lively space where people can wander in and out of the different stores, enjoy shopping or simply appreciate the lights and colors and artistic atmosphere.
A recent visitor during this holiday time commented that the “city feels alive and festive.”
There are those who enjoy the experience of going to a busy, crowded mall to look for bargains for friends and family. But the village of Langley offers something that many people will discover reflects the pleasures of a simpler time, when the winter holidays were more than just a mad dash to buy presents.
The village of Langley provides a quaint, charming experience that appeals to many who want to walk around shops in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
To experience Downtown Langley virtually, click the following YouTube video that was prepared by WhidbeyLocal.com
Article originally published on WhidbeyLocal.com.
…
Sweetening the World One Chocolate at a Time
Built on a firm foundation of passion, experience, and desire, Sweet Mona’s Chocolates in picturesque Langley, Washington creates extraordinary confections in small batches. They use only the finest quality ingredients—European style butter, chocolate made in the Belgian tradition with cacao grown in Ecuador and Venezuela, heavy cream from a regional creamery, and cane sugar.
Sweet Mona’s Chocolate Boutique originally opened in Langley on February 17th, 2006 as 1 Angel Place, Chocolate Bar. Sweet Mona’s has grown into a thriving gourmet specialty chocolate shop with a full beverage bar, including espresso and bubble tea and expanded gelato offerings, including shakes and sundaes.
Soon to be celebrating eleven years in business, Sweet Mona’s has grown through record breaking retail sales, wholesale relationships with Seattle Chocolates, DandyLines Distributors, and several locations throughout Whidbey Island.
Seattle Chocolates touts the caramels as “Best.Caramel. Ever,” being sold under their J Co Co brand.
Mona says, “Our greatest joy comes from our relationship with our customers and our ability to bring them wonderful chocolates in a loving and friendly retail environment.” She adds a special story: “Recently a family came from Philadelphia to Seattle for a visit and made a special trip to Whidbey Island just to see Sweet Mona’s.”
To show special appreciation for their regular customers, Sweet Mona’s has a new loyalty-based reward program. For every $10 a customer spends at Sweet Mona’s the person receives a punch on a virtual punch card. After ten punches, the customer gets a $10 credit to use on purchases at Sweet Mona’s Chocolates. It also gives the reward customer the ability to chat directly with Sweet Mona’s, earn rewards on a birthday, and be the first to know about specials that are running. It’s free to download, simply search for Flok at the app store.
I
f you’re not able to visit the retail shop, you can order items on the internet through Sweet Mona’s website (http://www.sweetmonas.com/shop/) or on Amazon.com.
For more information, please contact Mona Newbauer at 360-221-2728, or stop by the store any day, every day from 10:00 a.m.to 5:00 p.m. You will always get a sweet, warm welcome!
Article originally published on WhidbeyLocal.com.
…
Dancing Fish Vineyards: A unique destination on Whidbey Island that will dazzle your senses
Dancing Fish Vineyards at 1953 Newman Road in Freeland is a new visual and experiential destination on Whidbey Island. For now, there is a beautiful barn that houses wine tasting and special events, fields of vineyards that are like a landscape painting and a Farmhouse for overnight visitors.In the future, there will also be wine made from the many varieties of grapes that are being grown.
The name for the property came from a visual experience that Brad and Nancy Thompson had just before they purchased the 6-1/2 acres: She was fishing at Mutiny Bay when a fish jumped out of the water and appeared to walk on its tail.
The image stayed with the Thompsons and now is the logo that appears on the barn, on their wine bottles and promotional materials. The property was originally developed as a farm in 1943.
Nancy and Brad Thompson bought the land four years ago when they both decided to retire and pursue a vision: “We wanted to create a place where people will come and have a magical experience.” Since they have been developing Dancing Fish Vineyards, people have been stopping by and complimenting them on their progress. Nancy says, “People call and thank us for loving the property. Often they bring their friends to see what has been done.”
They began by remodeling the Farmhouse. It now is a comfortable vacation rental that sleeps six to eight people, includes a gourmet kitchen and has space for guests to meet and mingle.
They redid the barn and created a catering kitchen and a venue for weddings, celebrations and corporate events. There is space for up to 100 people inside and 100 people outside. The tasting room can handle 20 to 25.
The south facing pasture field was a perfect place to plant wine grapes. So far, they have planted Madeline Angevine, Siegerrebe, Burmunkand three different types of Pinot Noir. They are looking forward to their first harvest this fall.
To begin getting the best supplies for their vineyards, the Thompsons went to Oregon Vineyard Supplies in McMinnville, Oregon and Cloud Mountain in Bellingham. They originally purchased wine grapes for the visual effect, but then the decided to educate themselves on growing grapes for wine.
In the meantime, they have contracted with some of Washington State’s finest winemakers to create wines with the Dancing Fish Vineyards label.
The property includes horses, …
First Saturday Art Walks
Every first Saturday of the month, Langley’s art galleries open their new shows with the First Saturday Art Walk from 5 to 7 p.m. This is a time to meet the featured artists and take in the vibrant Langley art scene.…
Read MoreDouble Bluff Brewing Company in Langley: Great Craft Beers that will make beer lovers out of just about everyone
A visitor to Double Bluff Brewing Company for their soft opening in early October told owner Daniel Thomis, “I don’t like beer, but I really like these.” For the initial two days that Daniel and his wife Marissa offered their beers, nearly 200 people stopped by for some tastes.
Double Bluff Brewing Company (DBLF) is the culmination of a vision and a desire to fill a niche.
Daniel Thomis didn’t begin his life with a desire to be a brewmeister. He was born in Switzerland and came to the United States when he was 20 to attend college. He got a degree in Biology and Science from the University of California at Santa Barbara, where he also met Marissa. After graduation, Daniel and Marissa headed east and settled in Boston. For many years Daniel was employed in biotech and pharmaceutical companies, while Marissa taught English as a second language.
“We want people to come and taste our beers and have fun.”
Nearly 20 years ago, using his chemistry background and his love of good beer, Daniel began making home brews and began thinking about what else he might want to do with his life. After living in Boston for 20 years, Daniel and Marissa decided they were ready to return to the West Coast. They learned about a website, “Findyourspot.com” and each took a 50 question test that was intended to help them discover where they really wanted to live. It turns out that “Whidbey Island” was the only location that came up for both of them.
When they first researched Whidbey Island (which neither had ever heard of), their first responses were, “It’s too remote; it’s too rural.” But in November 2013, they paid a visit to Whidbey and “We fell in love with Langley.” They both agreed, “Let’s do it!”
They also learned that there was no brewery in Langley. After the years of home brewing, and even taking a course in making beer, Daniel realized he could fulfill a fantasy by filling a niche and open a brewing company. He told Marissa, “Let’s do our dreams.” As Daniel says, “Brewing beer involves lots of science and chemistry.”
Daniel and Marissa made the move to Langley one year later in November 2014. They looked at commercial property in Freeland and Langley. When they learned that new owners had taken over the property on Anthes Street and were doing …
Read More2016 Mystery Weekend Winners!
Congratulations to all the sleuths out there that solved the mystery this year. The three grand prizes at the 2016 Mystery Weekend event went to:
Sophie Morrell, Corinna Edens, and Josh Tocheny
Our other prizes went to the following lucky winners:
Laila Gmerek, Else Jensen, Erik Richardson, Kate Rosson, Annie from Tacoma, Drew Dunning, Nathaniel Kwak, Christina Chiu, Mark Roughsedge, Jim Shepard, Leslie Simons, Chance McMarrow, Emma Lavin, Fiona Hess, Jacob Weidert, Austin Adams, Ailis Palmer, Lorene Blakely, Bri Braverman, Gail Watts, Rebekah Pameroy, Lloyd Hill, & Kristen Decker.
Anyone that was not present to receive their prize will be contacted by email if more information is needed and/or mailed their prize.
Thanks to everyone that participated. We hope to see you again next year!
To view the complete solution, click here.
…
Read More2016 Mystery Weekend Solution
We are sad to announce that the person arrested for the murder of British Shakespearean actor Sir Laurence Burton was carpenter, general contractor, and 49er, Joe Curr.
According to Detective I.B. Fuzz, these were the clues which lead her to her solution.
Joe Curr had been hired by Sir Laurence as carpenter/general contractor for construction of the Hare Haven rabbit rescue. CLUE #2
Joe Curr was told by Sir Laurence that funds for construction were short and rabbits which had been delivered were being kept in cages. CLUE #32
Joe was running out of money for construction of Hare Haven. CLUE #23
Joe cared about the rabbits having good homes at Hare Haven and did not like what he saw happening at Hare Haven. He shared his suspicions with Roger Babbit and told Roger he was considering joining in the Free Range Rabbit movement. CLUE #13
The money Joe Curr was getting from Sir Laurence was getting so tight that Joe had resorted to buying carrots to feed them out of his own money. He told people, “something is off there” and that he might start doing some “rabbit rescue” of his own. CLUE #21
Joe told the 49ers that. “Something fishy is going on at Hare Haven and I intend to find out what.” CLUE #22
Joe found out Gustaf Hausen had suddenly found a source for local rabbit for his Hasenpfeffer Incorporated Restaurant. CLUE #10
Joe was seen driving into Langley early Friday morning. CLUE #12
C.S.I. determined that the unusual knife found at the crime scene was actually a stage dagger belonging to the victim, Sir Laurence.
The Coroner determined in his complete autopsy that the cause of death was a deep and narrow stab wound.
Officer Graph was asked to reexamine the scene of the crime and she discovered an awl hidden under a bush. She had missed it in her earlier investigation. The awl was covered in blood.
Joe Curr is a carpenter.
Carpenters use awls.
Joe was a rabbit lover and suspected Sir Laurence was planning to sell the rabbits to Hausenpfeffer Incorporated to make money for himself.
Joe called Sir Laurence to confront him and whatever Sir Laurence said to him made Joe so angry he stabbed Sir Laurence Burton with the carpenter’s awl as Burton was leaving The Inn at Langley after signing the final contract with Gustaf Hausen.
To …
Read MoreMystery Weekend 2016 Coroner’s Report
PRELIMINARY CORONER’S REPORT
Submitted by: Dr. Gus Gruesome, City Coroner
Date: February 27, 2016
Regarding: The unattended death of Sir Laurence Burton, a British citizen and resident of Freeland, WA
At 7AM on Friday February 26th, the body of a man was discovered by Dr. Hagetha Kisstea in McLeod alley near its intersection with First Street in Langley. Dr. Kisstea checked for a pulse. Finding none, she was about to call 911 when her cousin, I.B. Fuzz arrived on the scene. Detective Fuzz agreed with Dr. Kisstea’s identification of the body as that of Sir Laurence Burton. Fuzz offered to secure the crime scene while Hagetha went to alert the police officer on duty at City Hall.
By 7:15 Officer Trainee Polly Graph and I.B. Fuzz had strung police tape around the scene. Officer Graph then told Hagetha Kisstea she could go after her hound, Baskerville, but that she would need to return later for questioning. Graph then called the Langley Coroner’s Office.
Coroner Gus Gruesome, that’s me, and my assistant and driver Gussy Gruesome, arrived on the scene at 7:30 AM. After I verified that Sir Laurence was indeed deceased, Gussy Gruesome photographed the crime scene and Officer Graph started bagging evidence, under my supervision.
I gave Detective Fuzz time to examine the scene. Then, at 8AM, I asked Gussy Gruesome to remove the body to the Langley City Morgue on Dead Goat Road.
With the assistance of Detective Fuzz and Officer Graph, I then set about cataloguing the crime scene. Officer Graph noted shoe and boot prints in blood on the dirt of the alley and took her own measured photos. She said that the sole patterns and sizes suggested two different sets of shoes.
I.B. Fuzz found an odd looking knife near the location of the body. Though it had no visible blood on it, Officer Graph bagged it for fingerprints.
Within the pool of blood was a set of keys, an opened letter addressed to the victim in care of the Island Shakespeare Festival, a wool scarf, and a large carrot which looked as if it had been nibbled by one of Langley’s abundant bunnies.
At that point I.B. told me that she had all the information she needed from the crime scene and she would like to go with me to the morgue to examine the body. We left the scene in the …
Read MoreMystery Weekend 2016: The Characters
Detective I.B. Fuzz
Detective I.B. Fuzz is the world’s shortest retired Texas Ranger and volunteer Langley detective.
Hagetha Kisstea
Hagetha Kisstea is a retired veterinarian and mystery writer (British cousin of I.B. Fuzz).
Gus and Gussie Gruesome
Gus and Gussie Gruesome are dynamic duo: Langley Coroner (and sausage maker) and Coroner’s Assistant.
Donald & Max Tramp
Donald is running for mayor of Langley. He feels “these alien rabbits” should be “deported to their native lands or states” but definitely not allowed to live in Langley and cause all this trouble by eating the food of native island bunnies or digging holes and creating homes in the soil of the island. He is all for the trapping the 49ers are doing but he wants them to deliver the rabbits to him for exportation, not to Sir Laurence’s “Hare Haven.” Trouble is that Donald is not offering to pay the 49ers for the rabbits. He feels it is their patriotic duty as citizens of Langley to deliver the “alien” rabbits for deportation by him.
Max Tramp is a miniature version of his grandfather Donald and is helping in his mayoral campaign. He passes out his grandfather’s campaign flyers and tells all who will listen that the non-native (mutant) rabbits need to be deported.
Velma T. Bunie
Velma T. Bunie owns the local bookstore and has a contract with the Shakespeare Festival as the exclusive provider of scripts and books to the Festival and as the only book booth vender at the festival grounds. She is the sister of “Free Range Bunnies” activist, Ester Bunie.
Portia & Julius Cesaro (husband & wife)
Portia and Julius Cesaro are “culture snobs” and VERY wealthy patrons of the Shakespeare Festival. They were instrumental in convincing Sir Lawrence Burton to relocate to Whidbey Island and work with the Festival. They also agreed to pay his salary for the first five years and co-sign a loan so Sir Laurence could purchase his farm house and land. They fully expect to land leading roles in future Festival productions because they brought him here.
Juliet Romero
Juliet is a sickly sweet ingénue who is always out to get the leading female part in every Shakespeare Festival play. She will (almost?) literally stab someone in the back to get a good role but she is all sweet innocence on the surface. She loves to “sweetly” gossip about all the other festival …
Read MoreArtist-Owned Whidbey Art Gallery in Langley is now home to 39 South Whidbey Artists
The Whidbey Art Gallery on Second Street in Langley is a great place to shop for lovely gifts for yourself or others. The gallery offers a variety of art mediums including oils, watercolors, acrylic, pastel, printmaking, photography, glass, sculpture, metal, mixed media, textures/fiber, jewelry, ceramics/stoneware, wood and sumi art and more. Shoppers can choose from beautiful cards that sell for just $4 each or select a unique work of art selling for $4,000 or more.
Moe Jerome, one of the founding members of the gallery and a highly regarded oil painter, believes that working with other artists is a “growth experience.” Tom Hanify, who is the Marketing Manager for the gallery agrees and adds, “I love being influenced by others; I get inspired by what I see.”
“This is a community for us to come and gather. We help and support each other.”
The two men are typical of many of the artists on Whidbey who had other occupations before arriving on the island. Jerome worked in management for Albertson’s for 42 years, while pursuing a private passion for working with watercolors. In 1995 turned professional and became actively involved in promoting what was then the Artists Cooperative Gallery in Langley.
Tom Hanify was in computer sales. He tells the story of driving across Deception Pass 10 years ago and noticing the gorgeous colors on the rocks at sunset. He suddenly became compelled to invest in a camera to capture these kinds of moments
Whidbey Art Gallery owes its beginnings to Paul Schell, who built the Inn at Langley. In 1992, Schell approached Moe Jerome and asked if he could create something nearby that visitors would enjoy touring. Before Music for the Eyes opened in the space next to the Inn, the Artists’ Cooperative Gallery (which became the Whidbey Art Gallery) was located there. In 2011 Whidbey Art Gallery settled into its current space at 220 2nd Street.
Nancy Duncan, an exceptional digital photographer, is on the Marketing Committee and she has been impressed with the caliber of the artists who share in the gallery. A juried selection process determines the regular and guest artists. Duncan especially appreciates the community atmosphere of the gallery: “This is a community for us to come and gather. We help and support each other.”
Since its inception, over 155 local artists have collectively owned and operated the gallery. It has been a policy from …
Read MoreAn increasing number of visitors are coming to the Langley Whale Center on Whidbey Island
Wendy Sines, the Manager of the Langley Whale Center Manager, was pleased at the number of people who stopped by their new location at 115 Anthes Street during the grand opening on November 14. At their previous location next door, which opened a year ago, they had thousands of visitors in the first year and 3,500 followers on Facebook. Since the opening at their new, greatly expanded location, the number of visitors has been growing. Sines notes, “On an average Saturday, we are seeing 100 or more people stopping by.”
“We’re thrilled to have the Langley Whale Center to be able to meet people and engage them in learning about the whales and other marine mammals of the Salish Sea.”
The new location provides more far more visibility and offers double the space for educational displays, information and a gift shop. They also have a lending library for books and DVD’s relating to Puget Sound whales.
The Langley Whale Center is a project of Orca Network, which is based in Freeland, Washington, and is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit started by Howard Garrett and his wife, Susan Berta, in the 1990’s. The organization is dedicated to raising awareness of the whales of the Pacific Northwest, and the importance of providing them healthy and safe habitats. Garrett says, “We’re thrilled to have the Langley Whale Center to be able to meet people and engage them in learning about the whales and other marine mammals of the Salish Sea.”
Orca Network is known throughout the world and has an international membership of over 150,000. Interest in whales has grown considerably in the last 40 years as peoples’ attitudes toward whale captivity has changed. The goal of Orca Network is to educate and spread information about the Orca whale populations. The organization also has a major focus on gaining the release of Lolita, who was captured in 1970, and has been on exhibit in Florida since that time.
The Langley Whale Center gives Orca Network a highly visible presence on the Salish Sea, home to two major Orca communities, the “South Resident community” which includes 82 whales, which has been considered endangered, and the “Transient Community,” which has 260 whales.
Along with exhibits about the Resident and Transient Orcas and local Gray whales, the Whale Center provides information about the other “Orca Ecotypes,” and other cetaceans and marine mammals that live in the Salish …
Read MoreNew Year’s Resolution: More Local Art Education Opportunities
Cary Jurriaans of Whidbey Fine Arts Studio is starting off the new year with a couple of community-minded projects, and a wish for more community involvement in promoting art education.
On Friday, January 22 at 6 p.m. at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts (WICA’s) Zech Hall, Jurriaans has invited Seattle artist and art critic Gary Faigin for a lively discussion of 10 not-to-be-missed European art experiences. The talk is titled: “10 European Art Masterworks That Everyone Should See Before They Die.”
Cost for the talk is $25 per person, with students receiving a 25% off discount. Tickets can be purchased through the WIFAS website www.whidbeyislandfas.com or at Prima Bistro restaurant on First Street in Langley.
“Faigin is a good speaker and knows his material well,” said Jurriaans. “He’s also the author of The Artists Complete Guide to Facial Expression, and is the Artistic Director and co-founder of the Gage Academy of Art in Seattle.”
Jurriaans is especially interested in attracting younger students to this lecture as well as to her art classes. One of her community outreach projects is the weekly Figure Drawing Group, which offers a live model each week and has a student-friendly price of just $15 per session. The group meets Saturdays at the Island County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information about this weekly group, click here. (http://www.meetup.com/South-Whidbey-Island-Figure-Drawing-Group/events/227462765)
“The figure drawing group is my community service,” said Jurriaans. “I want more opportunities for young people to be exposed to classical art and art history, but I need help to get the word out and raise the funds to bring other expert speakers and teachers to Langley.”
Community members who are interested in expanding local art educational opportunities are welcome to contact Jurriaans through her website www.whidbeyislandfas.com.
…
Become an artistic glassblower, or simply enjoy all of the beautiful glass art at Callahan’s Firehouse Studio in Langley
Callahan McVay opened his glass blowing studio and art glass gallery in the former Fire Station at 179 2nd Street in Langley.
In 1988, when Callahan was only 14 years old, he discovered he had special talent for blowing glass.. He had worked with stained glass at an alternative high school in Everett, and says, “I knew at 14 that working with glass was what I wanted to do.”
He trained with several glass artists on Whidbey Island and developed his artistry to the point where he was ready to create a glass blowing studio in his Clinton home in 2000.
He became known for his glass works, and the demand for his glass art pieces increased to the point where Callahan began looking for a larger, more commercial location to develop a concept where he would continue to do his work and offer a space as a glass blowing studio where others could create their own art pieces.
The 3,090-square-foot fire station became surplus when Island County Fire District 3 moved to its new $1.5 million station on Camano Avenue late last fall. When Callahan learned about the vacancy, he checked out the space and knew this was what he wanted.
He decided to maintain the Fire House name and his business is officially Callahan’s Firehouse Studio. The site includes a “hot shop” where he can demonstrate his glass blowing skills and teach glass blowing to individuals or groups as large as 10 people. Callahan says, ““Retail isn’t the primary focus of this space,” because showing others how to work with glass is his greatest pleasure.
The gallery and studio viewing area are open to the public and handicap accessible. Callahan invites walk-ins and suggests invites people to do a one-on-one glass blowing class with him: “You can blow a float, chile pepper, paperweight, or a seasonal item,” he adds. You can also take a one-hour blow-your-own-creation class.
For more information, check out Callahan’s website.
Article originally published on WhidbeyLocal.com.
…
Moonraker Books in Langley: Great Ideas for Holiday Gifts
We’re just getting into the holiday season, and a time of giving gifts. While the digital age seemed to spell the death of print books, beginning in 2014 a significant turn-around took place. Apparently, looking at a screen just can’t replace the experience of sitting in a comfortable chair and holding a book and reading it.
Josh Hauser, the owner of Moonraker Books in Langley has noticed the resurgence of interest in people coming into her book store and spending time just wandering and looking at what’s there. She notes, that just about everyone loves getting a good book for a present.
Josh and her husband, Glenn, opened Moonraker Books in 1972 and, at the time, were one of the few retail stores on 1st Street. After more than 40 years in business, Josh still loves greeting customers and helping them find a particular book.
While shopping in Langley soon after Glenn and Josh had arrived from California, they noticed a “For Sale” sign in the window at 209 1st Street. Glenn was a retired Marine Corps pilot, and they were looking for something they could do to support their family (their children were in junior high school at the time). Glenn said. I can fly a plane. Josh remembers saying, “I can read,” followed by Glenn’s comment, “Let’s do a book store.”
“Our customers have grown up with us and are now bringing their children and even grandchildren to be introduced to the joy of books.”
And, that was the start of Moonraker Books. A “moonraker” is a sail at the top of the mast of a sailboat, but for Glenn and Josh the name represents daydreaming. They believed that a major attraction of a bookstore is exploring and dreaming. They weren’t sure the bookstore would be a success, but people came to check it out and kept returning and telling others about the Moonraker.
Josh, whose husband died two years ago, still runs the bookstore 43 years after its opening. She admits to being driven by a high degree of persistence. But, she adds, the secrets to her success are “I love books, and I love people.”
Josh is pleased with how much the store has responded to the changing needs and interests of its customers. On the website it is noted: “Our customers have grown up with us and are now bringing their children and even grandchildren …
Read MoreGetting Here
To get to Langley from the Seattle area (south):
- Take I-5 N
- Take Exit 182 (in Lynnwood), merge left onto WA-525 west towards Mukilteo
- Stay on WA-525 N until you reach the WA State Ferry Terminal
- Take the ferry across Puget Sound to Clinton
- Once off of the ferry continue on WA-525 N
- Turn right onto Langley Road
- Once in Langley, turn right onto Cascade Avenue (turns into First Street)
- You’re here in Langley!
To get to Langley from Bellingham/Canada (north):
- Take I-5 S
- Take Exit 230 toward Burlington/Anacores/WA-20
- Take WA-20 W and follow (turns into WA-525 S)
- Turn left onto Bayview Road (turns into 3rd Street)
- Turn left on Anthes Avenue
- Turn right on Second Avenue
- You’re here in Langley!
Click on the links below for more travel info:
- Mukilteo/Clinton Ferry Schedule
- https://wsdot.wa.gov/Ferries/RouteAlerts/register
- Ferry Terminal Web Cams
- Printable Map & Directions from Your Location
- Walking Map of Langley (paper size 8.5″x14″)
- Map of Whidbey/Camano Islands
Must-see Farm & Garden
Bayview Farm and Garden is among five Washington nurseries to be listed on Garden Center magazine’s list of the 100 Top Independent Garden Centers of 2014.…
Read MoreWelcome to VisitLangley.com!
Don’t let our quiet streets fool you: history meets hip in Langley. This seaside village is where you can experience everything from blowing glass to talking with coffee roasters, artists and winemakers.…
Read More
