The time for music and flowers

Published 11:00 am Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Darrel’s darling daughter …

DARREL BERG, 85, former pastor of the Guemes Island Community Church and Coupeville resident, is busting his buttons over his daughter, DEBORAH BERG McCARTHY’s new musical production.

He held a listening party at his home last Sunday afternoon so friends could hear the latest product of Deb and her longtime music partner, Julian Marshall of Devonshire, England. They called the party and were put on the speaker phone to the guests’ delight. After a few years off to raise their children, they have reconnected as Eye To Eye to create “Clean Slate,” their third CD of original music. The CD’s title track is an upbeat meditation on the redemptive renewal of nature and time.

Julian, a graduate of the Royal College of Music in London, is a composer and keyboard player. Deborah also composes, writes lyrics, plays acoustic guitar and sings.

Darrel’s garden was manicured for the occasion, causing Darrel to say, “I hope this will be a kick-off for the Coupeville garden season and open other gardens for such tours.”

Navy League sweethearts …

I saw two of the nicest ladies I know, LEE YOUNGBLOOD and JO BALDA, at last week’s Navy League 50th Anniversary and awards banquet.

Lee’s efforts on behalf of Navy League may have been a secret before, but now everyone knows this wonderful volunteer has been named Navy Leaguer of the Year.

Next, the JOHN VANDERZICHT MEMORIAL HALL OF HONOR award, given only six times since its inception, was about to be presented. As guests listened to the citation, DAVE WILLIAMS walked casually from his table, reaching Jo’s side as her name was read. He escorted Jo to a spot in front of previous inductees where MARY VANDERZICHT waited to present her with a brass and wood captain’s clock.

It was thrilling to see two ladies who avoid the spotlight finally get standing ovations.

It’s reunion time …

Summer is just about here and that means many vets are thinking of Navy reunions.

GLENN LANE reports that Heavy Attack Squadron 4 veterans plan a 50th anniversary reunion June 29 to July 2, Thursday through Sunday, at NAS Whidbey.

The A-3 squadron members are hoping for a large turnout. For information, call Ernest Wright, 360-428-6850.

TERRY KIDDER, 77, doesn’t have a reunion to go to this summer but he’s hoping to arrange one.

“I’m looking for old-timers to get together with,” he said. CS3 Kidder first came to Whidbey in 1952. He left in ‘54 and returned in ‘55. In the ‘60s he was known locally for selling Seattle events tickets out of his house near the Elks Lodge. Today he’s in business in Mount Vernon, owner of Sports USA & Tickets.

If you’re another old-timer looking for a reunion or just someone to share memories with, call Kidder at (360) 708-7271.

Dems go golfing …

Democrats and Friends of Democrats are invited to first annual golf tournament fund raiser on Saturday, June 24, at Holmes Harbor Golf & Beach Club, Freeland. For just $100 ($50 for 18 and under), you’ll play on a beautiful course, use a golf cart for two, be served morning coffee, lunch and beverage. Singles, doubles or threesomes will be paired for you. Meet the candidates at 3 p.m. Sign up at 10 a.m. Proceeds benefit local candidates. To register, call Ann at 678-3854.

Restaurateurs, take note …

Busy restaurant owners may not have heard about the first annual Whidbey Farm Tour, part of Harvest Day on Oct. 7.

Eight island farms will be featured and the tour planning committee is seeking Whidbey Island restaurants interested in providing special local harvest menu items and promoting local harvest meals that day. Call 678-0919 by June 20.

Camp Orkila forever …

The YMCA’s Camp Orkila, a real Northwest treasure, is celebrating its Centennial in 2006, hosting a reunion for camp alumni at McCaw Hall on Thursday, June 22, and a Centennial Family Camp Weekend from June 23 to 25.

The reunion will feature a documentary chronicling the 100 year history of Camp Orkila and a book, titled “I Learned It at Camp: 100 Life Lessons from 100 Years at YMCA Camp Orkila.” The documentary is narrated by noted adventure sports filmmaker Warren Miller. The book features authentic quotes from campers, counselors, parents and volunteers throughout the past 100 years alongside historical anecdotes and timelines. Visit www.camporkila.org or call (206) 382-5009.

I’ll be back on June 21. Call me with your news at (360) 675-6611, leave a message and I’ll call right back.