8 Cannabis Happenings

3 Betty’s Corner By Betty Desire

By Betty Desire 11 Bibliography of Film
3 In The Mix By Lyle Pearson
By Bridget Adams 12 Astrology
4 Bellingham Queer Collective

2024
By The Cranky Crone
By Michelle Harmeier 12 Distribution List
5 Merry Edwards Winery Of The Betty Pages
By Kat Northup 13 Free Range Connections
6 Press Release
By Downtown Bellingham
Partnership
14
By Briar Westgren
The Slow Lane
May
By Robert Ashworth
A Desire Enterprises Publication
 Betty’s Corner
By Betty Desire
Boy is it busy at the end of April! I am writing this on the 22nd of April in
order to get the paper done and to the printers before May 1st. In this May
edition you will find, on the cover, a photo from my visit to Squalicum High
School's Over the Rainbow Festival. The Queer Straight Alliance Club
organized this year’s festival and I was invited to participate on a panel with
my Drag friend Dizzy. We answered audience questions about Drag
entertainment and gave them a short example of our time honored craft.
Female and Male impersonation has been a part of the entertainment scene in
Bellingham since 1892. An amazing experience was had by all.
In this issue you will also find a pictorial of our annual 420 run. Every year
since the first retail Marijuana shop opened up in July of 2014, on April 20th I
have made a pilgrimage to each and every retail Marijuana shop in Whatcom
County and made a purchase of at least one item. The pilgrimage takes about
8 to 9 hrs. (If you don’t stop for food) After I got home (exhausted) I thought
to myself, Betty, why do you do this? Then I remembered that Weed was legit
in America prior to 1937. It was heavily regulated (allowed for medical and
industrial use only) by the Marijuana Tax Act in 1937 and its use for any
reason curtailed in 1970 with the passage of the Controled Substances Act.
News reports of the time printed false and misleading stories of it’s “turning
its users into beasts” turning users insane. All of these stories were later
discovered as false, but the damage was done. I celebrate 420 because truth
won out over lies. Truth overwhelmed a flood of misleading information and
finally, in 2014 the recreational use of a drug that is far safer than alcohol,
became available for the discerning American adult. I call this a victory. But
we must not stop working for Federal recognition that the classification of
Cannabis as a schedule 1 drug (the same as heroin and cocaine) is morally
wrong and intellectually dishonest. We are moving in the right direction with
marijuana legalization. It’s only a matter of time. We must keep the pressure
on our Federal representatives to fix the problem with the federal
classification of marijuana as a schedule 1drug. There will be resistance,
because money is involved. Hopefully truth will win out again.
Finally, Pride Season starts early in our fair City. Western Washington
University finished its celebration of Gaypril. A month long of events
celebrating all things Queer. I was able to participate in Queer Con, a lot like
Norwest Con but with more glitter. It is also time to go to
prideinbellingham.org and register to participate as vendors, parade
participants, and volunteers. If for any bizarre reason you can’t physically
attend the events consider a donation to help defray the cost of the festival.
We ‘Hamsters know how to party! Let’s make this year’s festivities the best for
all of the amazing mosaic of humans who call this jewel of a City on the coast
of the Salish Sea home.
In The Mix sources
1 www.abc27.com/news/hersheypark-transgender-guests-may-use-restrooms-according-to-identity
2 thehill.com/changing-america/respect/equality/3882751-hershey-responds-to-backlash-over-
www.TheBettyPages.gay
womens-day-campaign-featuring-trans-activist/
3 www.pennlive.com/news/2015/11/hershey_co_a_sweet_place_to_wo.html
4 corporate.lowes.com/sites/lowes-
corp/files/CD%26I%20reports/Lowes_CD%26I_6.16.22%5B2%5D.pdf
5 www.lyft.com/hub/posts/creating-an-inclusive-community
2 www.Patreon.com/TheBettyPages
In The Mix
By Bridget Adams
Next month is June, people! June! We’re almost halfway through 2024, which seems a
little crazy to me. It felt like we were in January and February forever and then we all
blinked and woke up in May.
As we all know, though, June is more than Pride month. June is also the month where
corporations paint everything rainbow colors and claim to be our BFFs-love-you-
mean-it! Sure, there was a time when a corporation, organization, or politician
marching with us or hanging a sign in June meant something. It was a powerful
statement and valuable assurance that we were respected. Now? Now, it might as well
be pumpkin spice in October.
So, I figure it’s a good time to look at some companies that support us year-round. We
all know Target and Microsoft and Delta and Absolut, and god knows I’m grateful for
them! But they aren’t the only ones.
Hershey: The company explicitly allows people to use the bathroom that matches their
gender in their operations and the amusement park. Not only on their website but in
numerous interviews and press releases, Hershey doesn’t back down about its support
for the community. Here in Pennsylvania, it’s considered one of the best places for
LGBTQ employees.
Lowe’s: In researching this article, I decided that I want to work at Lowe’s when I grow
up. That’s how supportive they are. And they are supportive not just of us, but of
everyone. As we all know, intersectionality is a thing. I’ve known for years they pay a
living wage and that their CEO is a Black man. Those two things automatically make
me appreciate them. Turns out, there’s more. Lowe’s currently runs, supports, hires
into, and promotes from the following Business Resource Groups: the Able BRG; the
Asia Pacific BRG; the Black BRG; the Latino BRG; the Pride BRG; the Veteran BRG;
the Women Empowered BRG; and the Generations BRG.
Lyft: Sure, this giant in the ride-sharing industry will fire a driver or ban a customer if a
ride is canceled due to a person’s orientation or identity, or if slurs or insults are used.
That’s a very low bar, though. What makes them amazing is how they back it up. The
Driver Blog includes a post spelling out LGBTQ harassment; defining terms and
phrases; and making clear why all of this is important. The Gender and Identity
Inclusion Policy was enough to bring tears to my eyes. They even guarantee they will
offer at least one medical insurance that covers transition.
PayPal: In 2015, PayPal was one of the first major corporations to support the Equality
Act, a major federal-level bill that would guarantee protections to our community. In
2016 when N.C. passed ugly, anti-LGBTQ legislation and made the state a dangerous
place for us, PayPal canceled a multi-million dollar expansion into the state, costing it
400 direct jobs and untold number of indirect jobs. And they haven’t quit. Not only to
they offer and expect inclusion and diversity, but they have a diverse vendor/supplier
program so they can work with other businesses and organizations that share the same
values.
Penzey’s: Last but never least. And yes, you’ve heard me preach on Penzey’s Spices
before. I will as often as I can. Bill Penzey is a man committed. COMMITTED. To us.
To women. To people of color. To the marginalized. Mostly, though, he is committed to
calling out the current Republican party and ending hate. Not convinced? Check out
the “About Republicans” tab on the website. And check out the calls to boycott them.
(There are so many, I can’t link them here; Google “boycott Penzeys” and you’ll
understand.) Then check out his online store and buy some spices.
You want to eat a rainbow-colored cookie or drink out of a rainbow colored can next
month, that’s fine. Seriously. But you don’t have to stop there. Because these
companies don’t stop after June either.
Until next month, take care of you—and each other.
www.TheBettyPages.gay
6 take.lyft.com/diversity/Lyft_Gender_Inclusion_and_Affirmation_Policy.pdf
7 www.hrc.org/press-releases/paypal-endorses-landmark-equality-act-as-corporate-support-for-critical-lgb
8 www.vox.com/2016/4/5/11369334/paypal-lgbtq-north-carolina
9 about.pypl.com/how-we-work/diversity-and-inclusion/supplier-diversity/default.aspx
10 www.penzeys.com/shop/about-republicans/
www.Patreon.com/TheBettyPages 3
 Bellingham Queer Collective
By Michelle Harmeier
Our New BQC Community Center Needs Community Support
Let’s Raise $30,000 in 30 Days in June!
The BQC is excited to be part of a historic event in
Bellingham and Whatcom County! The Q Center, the
first LGBTQ+ community and resource center between
Seattle and Canada will be opening soon in the Downtown
Arts District of Bellingham. Northwest Youth Services will
operate their Queer Youth Services (QYS) program from
this location. The BQC was invited to lease a portion of the
new Q Center space to open its own community center.
Having a space of our own will allow us to better do our
mission aligned work which is to connect, celebrate, unite and advocate for
the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
Our new BQC Community Center will provide a critical inclusive third space,
outside of home and work, for our 18+ intergenerational LGBTQ+ community
members to gather Downtown. Initially, our Center will be used for:
• affinity group meetups • a quiet reading/work space
• workshops and classes • a socializing space
• game and movie nights • organizational meetings
• a curated lending library • resource navigation
The BQC is an all volunteer organization. We rely on trained volunteers to
contribute their skills, talents, time, and generosity to support our programs, and
now operate a community center. Our goal is to have the Center available for
community use from 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM, seven days a week.
Since the BQC formed in November 2022, it has been our goal to bring queer
people together, post COVID, in our Downtown to socialize, connect, and attend
events together. Now, as a 501(c)(3) organization, we are also applying for grants to
fund future staff positions to support the unmet needs of our community by adding
specific programs/services in partnership with other non-profit organizations.
Now, we need your help! To operate a brick and mortar Center, we need to
raise funds annually to cover rent, utilities, supplies/materials, and volunteer
training costs. Our annual operating budget to lease and maintain a community
space center is $30,000, or $2,500 per month. Donations will ensure we have the
funds to create a stable, sustainable space for our community year after year.
Our first BQC Pride Month fundraising campaign will kick off Saturday, June 1,
2024. More details will be on our website by June 1 including the many events we
will be attending for outreach and visability.
Our goal is to raise $30,000 in 30 days in June!
You can donate now through our website: www.bellinghamqueercollective.org/ or
email us at info@bellinghamqueercollective.org to learn about more ways you can
partner and support the BQC.
The Bellingham Erotic Ball; Leather and Lace October 19, 2024 - Early
Bird Tickets On Sale Now
The Bellingham Queer Collective is excited to host the 2nd Annual Bellingham
Erotic Ball! This year’s theme is Leather and Lace. This is the premier adult
Halloween event in Bellingham!
This year we are taking over the historic Hotel Leo located
at 1224 Cornwall Ave, Downtown Bellingham. This annual
www.TheBettyPages.gay
BQC Friendraising Event brings our diverse, queer
communities together for an exciting and affirming
celebration event, and it raises funds for our new BQC
community center opening this June. Use the QR below to
visit our website to learn more about the event, reserve
your early bird tickets, and reserve your hotel room before
they sell out!
4 www.Patreon.com/TheBettyPages
Pride IN Bellingham Parade and Events
July 6th & 7th 2024
Pride IN Bellingham
Thousands of people visited the Pride Parade and Festival last year, and
hundreds took part in other events spread throughout the weekend and across
Downtown Bellingham. Dozens of volunteers and financial contributors came
together to plan and facilitate these celebrations; all offered free of charge for
EVERYONE.
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our
mission of Inclusivity and Accessibility!
Business Contributions
Pride IN Bellingham attracts guests from all walks of life and of all ages who
come together from Bellingham and across Washington State to celebrate the
Pride Movement and LGBTQIA+ rights together. Located in the heart of
Downtown Bellingham these events are centered around Depot Market Square
and bring folks to further explore Bellingham and the Downtown District.
Pride IN Bellingham Merchandise
This is our first year with the new Pride IN Bellingham (Lovingly created by
Erin James Design) Check out all the great merch online and have it shipped
direct to you!
We will have 'B proud' Merch for sale at the Festival, we will only be offering
merch at the festival that is not gendered or sized (Fanny Packs, Hats,
Sunglasses, etc.) We have a print-on-demand capability to handle all other
merch and ship it directly to you–
Please visit www.PrideInBellingham.org for more information and links
to sponsorship, vending, volunteering, and registering your contingent for the
parade.
How to connect with the BQC: • Join our private Facebook Group,
• Go to our website http:// Bellingham Queer Collective
bellinghamqueercollective.org for more • Follow us on Instagram
information about upcoming events on our @BellinghamQueerCollective
calendar page
• Email us at
• Follow our Bellingham Queer Collective info@bellinghamqueercollective.org
Facebook Public Page
Merry Edwards Winery The Sauv Blanc that we tasted was the 2022 Russian River Valley Sauvignon
By Kat Northup CS Blanc. It was beautiful, light with hints of melon, citrus, and was bright and
floral. While the character of the grape is present, it is uncharacteristically
The Merry Edwards Winery in Sebastopol, California is a bastion of
smooth. There is almost none of the typical “cat pee” ammonia aroma that
sustainability and wine creativity. Last month, I had the joy of attending a
most Sauv Blanc wines have. This smooth character is owed to its lees (the
tasting with Merry Edward’s winemaker, Heidi Von Der Mehden. After the
sediment produced during fermentation that is typically strained off) contact,
first sip of the first wine, I was sold. The Merry Edwards Winery’s current
and the fermentation in barrels with just a hint of oak.
vintage releases are stunning, and much, if not all that credit goes to Heidi’s
artful craft. The Pinot Noirs that the Merry Edwards Winery is known for were delicious.
The story of the Merry Edwards Winery begins with, you guessed it, Merry Their characters were so different. One was masculine, with hints of fruit
leather, high acid, and earth. The other was big, lush, and fruity. The
Edwards. She began her wine journey after graduating in 1973 as one of the
first women with master’s degree from UC Davis. This master’s degree was in Sauvignon Blanc stole the show, so completely and entirely, that I must admit
food science with an emphasis in enology. The following year, Edwar ds began that I neglected to write down which Pinot Noir was which.
her career at the Mount Eden Vineyards. The focus on terroir combined with the excellent craft and experimentation
Mount Eden Vineyards is an older vineyard, dating back to the 1940s, located that Heidi Von Der Mehden imbibes these wines with is enhanced further by
the lack of added chemicals and fertilizers in the vineyard.
in the Santa Cruz Mountain Appellation in California. Merry Edwards worked
alongside winemaker Richard Gaff. Under Richard Gaff’s tutelage, Edwards The Merry Edwards Winery is California Certified Sustainable. This means that
produced the 1974, 1975 and 1976 vintages of Mount Eden’s Chardonnay, the Merry Edwards Winery has met at least 60 criteria set forth for vineyards
Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. and at least 41 of the criteria set forth for wineries by the Industry’s Code of
From 1977 to 1984, Merry Edwards embarked on a new project, helping found 200+ best practices of the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance. Some
the Matanzas Creek Winery with Sandra MacIver. Matanzas Creek Winery is of the measures that the Merry Edwards Winery has taken to achieve this high
known for its focus on “site-expressive” wines. This emphasis on terroir allows standard is that they use solar panels to power the winery, and permeable
concrete. Permeable concrete allows water to seep through the concrete to
the winemakers to experiment with varietal clones (grapevines grown from
cuttings from other vineyards) different fermentation techniques and vessels. replenish the ground water supply and help prevent erosion.
Merry Edwards left the Matanzas Creek Winery in 1984. All of these elements combined create phenomenal wines with magnificent
In 1998, Merry Edwards and her family purchased the apple orchard which characters. Although I couldn’t remember the names of the Pinot Noirs, I
would later become the Merry Edwards Winery. remember the tastes. The Sauv Blanc is the best that I have ever tasted. If there
was ever an outstanding winemaker, Heidi Von Der Mehden is it. If you love
Heidi Von Der Mehden comes from a diverse background. She graduated from wine, and ever get the chance to taste wine from the Merry Edwards Winery, it
Santa Clara University in 1997 and went on to the Peace Corps, where she is not an opportunity to be missed.
taught high school chemistry in Tanzania, Africa. Upon her return to the
states, Von Der Mehden worked as a lab technician for Kenwood Vineyards.
She gradually worked her way up to being an enologist and in 2004, Von Der
Mehden joined the Arrowood Winery as an associate winemaker under
Richard Arrowood’s mentorship. She became an associate winemaker to Merry
Edwards in 2015 and was named as her winemaking successor in 2018. Merry
Edwards retired in 2020, leaving the Merry Edwards Winery’s wine in the
capable hands of Heidi Von Der Mehden.
The Merry Edwards Winery is a relatively small production winery. The 9
Pinot Noir wines that are the hallmark of this winery are produced from single
plots. The winery also produces a small amount of Chardonnay and Sauvignon
Blanc. With her background in terroir-based wines, it is no surprise that
Merry Edwards’ winery continues that tradition.
The first wine that was tasted was the Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc. This
small batch production was originally produced specifically for wine dinners.
The winery had no interest in producing Sauv Blanc wines, but the dinner
crowds loved it. The Merry Edwards Winery did not want to produce this wine
on any scale, but the demand outweighed that doubt. When dinner guests
wished to purchase the Sauv Blanc, the first answer was, no, this is only a wine
that is made for dinners. When more guests began to inquire, a small amount
was produced, and then production began to expand. At $35 a bottle, it was,
and continues to be, an expensive wine, and is still in high demand.
www.TheBettyPages.gay
www.Patreon.com/TheBettyPages 5
 Press Release Downtown Bellingham Partnership Launches
By Downtown Bellingham Partnership Revamped Revitalization Grants Program
BELLINGHAM, WA – April 22, 2024 – The Downtown Bellingham
Historic Tax Incentive Boosts Downtown Bellingham Revitalization
Partnership is proud to announce two Revitalization Grants totaling $19,000,
Efforts
made possible through generous funding from BECU, available for businesses
Governor Inslee Signs HB 2306 into Law to Expand B&O Tax Incentives and event organizers with ideas to improve and activate Downtown
Bellingham from spring to fall 2024. The revamped Revitalization Grants
Bellingham, Washington – April 18, 2024 – Governor Inslee recently signed program includes the Storefront Improvement Grant and the new Community
HB 2306 into law, expanding the Main Street Tax Credit Incentive Program, Activation Zone Grant, both are open to receive applications effective today,
which allows businesses and organizations who pay state Business & April 22, 2024. An overview of both programs is below and full details and
Occupation (B&O) tax or Public Utility Tax (PUT) to pledge donations to application criteria can be found at downtownbellingham.com/revitalization-
Washington Main Street Communities, including Downtown Bellingham, and grants.
receive 75% back as a tax credit. This legislative action is in cooperation with
the Department of Revenue and the Washington Trust for Historic Storefront Improvement Grant: The Storefront Improvement Grant provides
Preservation and enables a potential third pledge season in 2024 and up to financial support of up to $2,000 for enhancements such as paint and signage
$333,333, up from $213,000 in 2023, for qualifying communities to reinvest to street-visible locations within downtown Bellingham. Notably, no matching
state dollars into local needs. The Downtown Bellingham Partnership must funds are required for the 2024 cycle, making this grant accessible to a wide
receive $160,000 in tax credit pledges from businesses and organizations range of businesses. The goal is to enhance the aesthetic appeal of storefronts,
paying state B&O or PUT before October 1, 2024, to earn eligibility for a third attracting customers and contributing to the overall vitality of downtown.
round of pledges and is inviting new businesses to the program effective today. Applications are open April 22 – May 20 and recipients will be selected by the
The first step for interested businesses is to contact the Downtown Bellingham end of May, 2024.
Partnership’s Development Manager, Jenny Hagemann.
Community Activation Zone Grant: The Community Activation Zone Grant
In addition to requiring communities to raise a minimum pledge amount to encourages vibrant community events on the 1300 block of Commercial Street
qualify for the third-quarter pledge extension, the state’s overall credit cap of and the Commercial Street Plaza. Grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 are
$5 million remains unchanged and first-come, first-served. As one of 38 available to support activities such as silent discos, block parties, artistic
Washington Main Street communities vying to maximize the overall state tax performances, and more from May to October. These grants aim to foster
credit cap of $5 million, the Downtown Bellingham Partnership is envisioning community engagement and create memorable experiences for residents and
the transformational projects nearly $100,000 in additional funding could visitors alike. Businesses, event organizers, and other non-profit organizations
afford: are encouraged to apply. Activations that meet the feasibility, community
impact, and inclusivity criteria will be awarded on a first-come, first-served
- Doubling the number of businesses benefiting from Storefront Improvement basis beginning April 22 until the grant funds are depleted.
Grant funds, enhancing the community's aesthetic appeal. What is the Rome Grange?
"We are thrilled to introduce these revamped Revitalization Grants, which
- Installation of dynamic lighting across city-center streets to facilitate evening represent our commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive downtown
Space to share!
community events and foster a vibrant atmosphere. community and BECU’s
DANCE ON THE HARDWOOD FLOOR • MAKE MUSIC ON OUR PIANO
- Year-round busking and live music performances on sidewalks, creating continued financial support," • BEAT A DRUM • PRACTICE WITH YOUR BEST BAND OUT LOUD
memorable experiences for visitors and residents alike. said Lindsey Payne • TAKE A LESSON • GIVE A CLASS • FIND YOUR COMMUNITY • HOLD A SALE
Johnstone, Interim • HOLD A SHOW • HAVE A BIRTHDAY PARTY • CELEBRATE A QUINCEANERA
- Expansion of mural installations to breathe new life into old concrete Executive Director of the • LAUNCH YOUR CLUB • MARRY YOUR BESTIE • YOUR IDEA HERE
facades, enriching the cultural landscape of Downtown Bellingham. Downtown Bellingham • FUNDRAISERS FOR YOUR GROUP - CAR WASH, FARMERS MARKET, SALE
"The Main Street Tax Credit Incentive Program has been a vital portion of our Partnership. "Through these
grants, we aim to empower SHARE IT ALL
annual budget planning for years and we are grateful for the base of
businesses who pledge and donate each year,” said Lindsey Payne Johnstone, local businesses and event MEMORIALS • SPEECHES • CAUSES
Interim Executive Director at the Downtown Bellingham Partnership. “The organizers to drive positive OUR INDOOR SPACE HAS IT:
potential of expanding funding capacity in 2024 means we can imagine change and create lasting • TABLES • CHAIRS • STAGE • HIGH SPEED INTERNET CONNECTION
executing the long list of placemaking projects and community events we impact in downtown • AUDIO ACCESSIBILITY • PARKING • BIKE RACK • CRAFT SPACE
know enhance Downtown district vitality but require additional capacity. Bellingham." • HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER • INDOOR PLUMBING • HEAT • LIGHT
• REFRIGERATION • FREEZER • WARMING OVEN
Businesses and organizations interested in learning more about the Main
Street Tax Credit Incentive Program should contact Jenny Hagemann, the RURAL CHARACTER with HIGH VISIBILITY - EASY TO LOCATE
Downtown Bellingham Partnership’s Development and Communications BUS SERVICE • OUTDOOR PICNIC PARTY SPACE • GRASSY TREED
Manager, at jenny@downtownbellingham.com for a no-pressure consultation
NOMINAL COST BY HOUR OR DAY
and assistance enrolling.
FARMERS MARKET FRIDAY * JUNE 7th thru SEPTEMBER 27th * 3pm-7pm *
www.TheBettyPages.gay

www.TheBettyPages.gay
2821 MT BAKER HYWY MILE POST 7
About the Downtown Bellingham Partnership Follow on Facebook, just search for Rome Grange Whatcom County
The Downtown Bellingham Partnership works to enhance, promote, and
advocate for a vibrant city center in Downtown Bellingham. For more For more information on rental, fees, etc:
PHONE NUMBER 360-510-4557 or Email at romegrange@aol.com
information on the Partnership and upcoming events please visit
www.downtownbellingham.com or call 360-527-8710. Visit our new website at RomeGrange226.org

6 www.Patreon.com/TheBettyPages www.Patreon.com/TheBettyPages 7
Cannabis Happenings
By Betty Desire
The Great 420 Run of 2024!
It has been 10 years since the first legal recreational Marijuana stores opened for business in Washington State.
Every year since then I have celebrated April 20th by visiting every retail Marijuana shop in Whatcom County. I
buy something from each Store as a thank you to the faithful “Bud Tenders” who provide excellent service with a
cheerful smile and helpful information on how each strain of “flower” or edible or oil can assist you in everything
from mood enhancement to pain relief. Legalized Marijuana helped me through recovery from open heart
surgery and major spinal surgery. I was able to heal using far less opiates for pain and in my book that is a huge
plus! Here are the pictures from the 420 run of 2024! (We may be missing 2 stores in that case they will be
added next Month) Ten years of Legalized Weed and we have yet to dissolve into anarchy and mayhem! Who
knew?
 Bibliography of Film
An India-Portugal Story
By Lyle Pearson
I stayed in the Trava Inn Lodge for three days, near Nilishwaram, in the state
of Kerala, India, before a friend's wedding.
At the Lodge the desk-clerk was very helpful, and I met a handsome friend of
his, back on vacation from Portugal.
"What do you do?" I asked.
"Portugal," was the answer.
He was so handsome, and graceful, I thought: 'I'll bet he does.'
We had no more conversation that day. He had to return home for dinner with
his parents.
I asked the desk-clerk what his friend did in Portugal.
"Anything that needs to be done."
Was I right? He was certainly not a ditch-digger. He was hot. Was he
sometimes a waiter in fancy parties, sometimes an escort? What? Did he have a walkway, extending over its patio. A makeshift stage, or dais, had been erected
girlfriend? Where?
I asked the desk-clerk if I might see the friend again. I did want to see him
again, partly to solve the mystery.
On my last day at the Trava Inn Lodge, he did reappear. Before, he and the
clerk were sitting, intimately, on a small bench built for two behind the desk, neighbor fun celebration.
squirreled away in an alcove, away from the public eye. Now I was sitting there,
having waited for them, while they kind of leaned on the high desk.
"My friend told me you wanted to see me again."
"Yes, I did. Thank you for coming."
I continued, "Do you have a girlfriend in Portugal?"
I never did find out what Keralites do in Helsinki. That was the end of our
conversation. He had to return home for dinner with his parents.
I never saw him again.
************
The next day my friend Shyam, the groom, and his younger brother (who
looks more like an elder brother) picked me up at the Trava Inn Lodge and
drove me to their parents' home. There, perhaps 50 other guests were
introduced to me, all except four gentlemen who knew they were to be
respected more than introduced. After the introductions, I had a Keralite
meal, rice and fish on a banana-leaf and, away from the hubbub, slept.
The following day was the wedding. The Nilishwaram auditorium holds 1500
guests, and was overflowing. I was escorted through the crowd via a middle
aisle and seated in the front row. With my Motorola cellphone I videoed many
guests as they lined up near a set of stairs leading to the stage, or dais, to pass
in front of and bless the couple. There were so many, I ran out of video space.
It went on for over two hours.
That evening was the fun and games. A tent had been erected over the home's
at the other end. On it was a satin-backed couch with just enough room for
two, the bride and groom. As this crowd waited for the entertainment to begin,
two- and four-year old kids jumped on and off the dais, sometimes sitting on
the satin couch. Oh, how I wished my cellphone still had video space left. Then
again, I couldn't make a fool of myself by videoing a family, friend, and
The game (all southern weddings seem to have one) was: Answer these
questions separately, and if your answers are the same, you will live together
peacefully. Shayam's younger/older brother was the M.C.
From 'What is your favorite color ("Blue")?" most of the answers did coincide.
They would be a happy couple.

"No." Shayam's ex-boss, from Mangalore (I, the only foreigner, had come from
Bangalore), was called upon to speak of and bless the happy couple. He
"Never?" apologized for speaking in English, for not all the guests spoke the language of
the state, Malayalam, and no other language would be understood by so many.
"In the past?"
I dreaded being called on, but I was. Rather than apologizing for not speaking
Yes. In the past."
Malayalam, of which I know nothing, I apologized for not speaking any Indian
"What happened?" language well, except English. Whenever I turned to the couple, they snapped
to attention, anxious for my blessing.
"They both got married. (I presumed not to each other.)
There was a classical "Bharat Natyam" dance by a young woman I had met the
"I don't like Portuguese girls." day before.
"Why not?" There was a wedding song by an aspiring actor and playback-singer: he
"They ask $1000 and wear too little at the beach. presently was working in commercials.
I had thought it rather would be the other way around. Was racism rearing its When I had arrived there was a line of gourmet Keralite dishes under the tent
ugly head? on the walkway leading into the patio. I had wanted to taste some of them, but
was told not to. After I spoke and blessed Shyam and bride, I was whisked
"I don't like Portugal. I want to go to Finland." away to a room adjoining a kitchen, for a Keralite meal on a banana-leaf.
He was home on vacation, but would return to Portugal for one year more, so Shyam's ex-boss was halfway through his meal, so I finished mine by myself.
he could earn his green card and immigrate anywhere he wanted in Western We had been the guests of honor.
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Europe. Around 11:30PM I was I dropped at my hotel. The entertainment, I am told,
"Why Finland?" went on long after I left. There was a dramatic performance of some sort, but I
don't know of what. I'm told these performances can go on all night.
There are many Indians [i.e. Keralites] in Helsinki."
Continued on page 13

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 Astrology Free Range Connections
Bibliography of Film continued
By The Cranky Crone Leo (July 23 - August 22): Leo, your natural Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21): By Briar Westgren
charisma will be shining bright this month, but be Sagittarius, your adventurous spirit will be in full My hotel, in Nilishwaram's oldest mall, wasn't as old as the city's tiled Welcome to an intersection of monogamy and non-monogamy – a place
careful not to let your ego inflate to the size of a hot swing this month, but be careful not to bite off more stuccoed homes, but it was greasy enough to seem older. My room key where the conventional and the unconventional will meet, mingle, maybe
Aries (March 21 - April 19): This month, Aries, air balloon. Remember, there's a fine line between than you can chew. Exploring abandoned buildings was one of those old long ones, with a square biting. clash (unless…?). Having departed the shores of monogamous dating over
the stars predict that your adventurous spirit will confidence and arrogance, and nobody likes a might sound thrilling, but it's a lot less fun when half a lifetime ago, I have accepted Betty’s invite to rekindle an old
lead you to new heights... literally! Beware of getting balloon that's popped by its own hot air. you realize you're trapped in the basement with I stayed two nights in the hotel, rather than the just planned one. Shyam relationship with this paper by filling the role of columnist for our local
stuck in a tree after attempting to impress your only a flashlight and a bag of stale chips. had too many responsibilities the day after the wedding to show me to a “alternative lifestyle tabloid” with the aim of shedding some light on the
Virgo (August 23 - September 22): Virgo, this train--spending time with his wife, saying goodbye to friends and
friends with your tree-climbing skills. Remember, nuanced world of life outside monogamy – or within it, with its frequent
month is all about finding balance in your life. Take Capricorn (December 22 - January 19): relatives, paying wedding expenses etc.
it's not the fall that hurts; it's the embarrassing exceptions.
some time to organize your sock drawer, color- Capricorn, this month is all about setting ambitious
story you'll have to tell afterwards. The day I did check out I could not find my key. I was told it was surely
coordinate your bookshelf, and alphabetize your goals and chasing after your dreams. Just be sure to This column will be written from the perspective of a biopsychologist,
Taurus (April 20 - May 20): Taurus, this month spice rack. Just don't be surprised if you find read the fine print before signing any contracts, or in my room. It wasn't. relationship anarchist, and long-time lover. My romantic and sexual journey
is all about indulging your senses. Treat yourself to yourself getting into a heated debate over whether you might find yourself accidentally agreeing to join
On reaching Bangalore I discovered the key in the deepest depths of my has been varied – coming from monogamy, exploring the realms of
some luxurious bubble baths and decadent socks should be folded or rolled. a synchronized swimming team made up entirely of polyamory, finding the functions and dysfunctions inherent to both,
right pants-pocket. Shyam, on his smartphone, and another friend,
chocolates. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you penguins. questioning the very foundations of what relationships are, fucking up a lot,
Libra (September 23 - October 22): Libra, assured me the postage would cost more than the value of the key, so I
might find yourself stuck in your bathtub, should keep it. Yet they hadn't seen the key. It was attached to a metal fucking up only a little and occasionally not at all, and currently maintaining a
your diplomacy and grace will be put to the test this Aquarius (January 20 - February 18):
surrounded by empty wrappers, wondering how you plate inscribed with the name of its previous hotel. It is an heirloom. spectrum of relations that run the range from “professionally platonic” to
month, especially when it comes to mediating Aquarius, your innovative ideas will be in high
got there. “deeply and multidimensionally bare.” I have never married but have lived
between your friends' petty arguments. Just demand this month. Be careful not to let your
I would like to return to Niliswaram, but at 86, I probably won't. I'd like with several married families and helped, for various phases of lives, raise
Gemini (May 21 - June 20): Gemini, your wit remember, it's hard to find a middle ground when eccentricity scare off potential collaborators.
to see the Trava Inn Lodge again, the clerk's handsome friend, and all children, and am quite close to many non-monogamous married people (one
and charm will be on full display this month but be one friend is arguing for pineapple on pizza and the Remember, not everyone is ready to embrace your
the guests at the wedding. They are my friends.
careful not to let your cleverness get the best of you. other is vehemently opposed. idea for a jetpack-powered toaster. of whom I date whenever we’re in the same city).
Remember, not everyone appreciates a prank It's funny how things and people come together for a special occasion, I intend this space as a “201” level discussion of non-monogamy/polyamory,
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21): Scorpio, Pisces (February 19 - March 20): Pisces, your
involving whoopee cushions, especially in and then never meet again. considering that the “101” level material is all available online by now and
this month, your mysterious aura will attract imagination will be running wild this month. Do not
important meetings. probably encountered at least once by people who would read this paper. That
attention from all corners. Just be careful not to let to get lost in your own daydreams. Remember, The handsome friend may soon be on his way to Helsinki.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22): This month, Cancer, your secretive nature get the best of you, especially there's a fine line between creativity and said, heteronormativity and monogamy exist intersectionally and so I won’t
when you accidentally lock yourself out of your own absentmindedness, and nobody wants to be the one I probably never will return to Nilishwaram. be presuming that every reader has the same comfort level with the topics
the stars advise you to embrace your inner
homebody. Curl up with a good book, binge-watch apartment while trying to sneak in through the who accidentally walks into a lamppost while But I have the key. discussed. We can also presume that there are people who will open this
your favorite TV show, or rearrange your furniture window. envisioning a unicorn parade. paper presuming that the authors of this paper are their enemies, that this
for the tenth time. Just be sure to check for paper is a manual of what not to do. In a way, this column will be written for
monsters under the bed before you go to sleep. that audience in mind as well.
Save the date for the 5th Annual Bellingham Bike Swap at
Boundary Bay Brewery Alley & Beer Garden on June 9, 2024! Free Range Connections will be an exploratory space, observing the diverse
Starts: June 09, 2024 ways in which we relate to each other, and acknowledging that the path to
fulfilling relationships isn't always straight or narrow. It's about recognizing
Time: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. the value in all forms of love, partnership, sex, and other forms of intimacy –
Admission: Free! whether you're monogamous, non-monogamous, or still figuring out where
you fit in those schemes. We’ll discuss the neuroscience of hormones, the
Location: Boundary Bay Brewery
Distribution List Alley & Beer Garden politics of sexuality, inclusion and exclusion, judgment, law, and maybe some
Where you can find The Betty Pages contemporary buzzes around non-monogamy in celebrity culture and beyond.
1107 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225 We'll talk about what commitment looks like when exclusivity isn't a given,
Birch Bay & Blaine Graham's Grocery Karma Kards Crazy Socks Mt Bakery College Lotus Coffee Mt Vernon how trust can be built and maintained in non-traditional structures, and why
(Bakerview) Produced By: Shifting Gears
Buds Garage (Custer) Wake and Bakery Arlis Cafe The Royal New Mexico Tamale Co Wild Buffalo Lincoln Theater the word "fidelity" might need a makeover in our collective vocabulary.
Trash to Treasures Contact Person: Krysy Keller
Birch Bay Buds Chair 9 (Bakerview) Mt Baker Planned Great Northern Rumors Cabaret J J's Shambala Bakery
Cannabis Parenthood Antique Mall So whether you've got your relationship style all figured out (or think you do!)
Pacific Hwy Boundary Bay Sugar on Magnolia Wedding Belles
Phone: 360-230 - 8445
Menace Brewery or you're just curious about what's out there and what you’re doing yourself, I
Dank of America Allied Arts Pita Pit
Smoking Crow Turbine Transit Home Skillet BBQ Old World Deli Ristrotta Email: krysy@letsshiftgears.com invite you to read on in the coming months. Let's explore the challenges,
Dank of America 2 Magnolia Post Office The Little Cheerful celebrate the successes, and maybe even debunk a few myths along the way.
Evolve Cannabis Zeek's Pizza Sean Humphrey House Chameleon Tatoo Tri Dee Join Shifting Gears for their 5th annual community bike & gear sale! The
Ferndale Bellingham Bar and Fiamma Burger Bellingham Bike Swap allows the community to purchase preowned bikes or Here's to broadening our horizons and embracing the full spectrum of love
2020 Solutions Sean Humphrey House Grill Elizabeth Station Flat Stick Pub Good Vibes
Mail Shop The Pickford gear at a lower cost, enabling our community to experience the joys and and connection in our community.
Bellingham Avelino gluten-free Photo Lab Cornwall Whatcom Co-op Peace of Mind The Lunch Box
Cult Cannabis Ave Mt Baker Theater (Downtown) Cannabis benefits of biking. <3, Briar Westgren
Star Outlet (Meridian) Nelson's Market Lincoln Theater
Cascade Herb Ashuri Cafe Vello Bellingham Technical Ruckus Room The Bike Swap is a space for community members to sell, shop, and simply
Apple orchard Orion College (Downtown) Skagit Valley College
Mt Baker Hwy (Meridian) Grand Avenue Ale The Waterfront Tavern share in the greatness of the Bellingham outdoor community. Those looking to
El Suenito House Western Washington South Bellingham Buds Arlington sell gear will drop off items on the morning of June 9th. The ‘Shop the Swap’ PS. Burning questions? Advice?
2020 Cannabis Whatcom Community Black Fern Coffee University (Lake Samish)
will be open to the community looking for bikes and biking gear. Unsold gear Email thebettypages@gmail.com with ATTN: “Free Range Connections” in
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College Western Bud The Beaver Mirkwood
Westcoast Wellness The Spark Museum Third Planet Caravan Cannabis
Larrabee Lager Co State Street Market The Horse Shoe (Cook Rd) Everett and checks will be picked up by the sellers that evening. the subject line
Between the Ferns (Meridian) Bellingham Public Ruckus Room (Bellis
Other Side Bagels 99 hair salon Library Fair) Fairhaven Catalyst Cafe 25% of each sale will be donated to Shifting Gears to help support our
Welcome Store Green Leaf (Meridian)
Cof& Third Planet Lifelong Ritual Records Village Books programs that help break barriers preventing women from experiencing the
Green Stop Fireside Bar
(Bakerview) Hotel Leo Old Town Cafe Bellingham Technical Waterfront Tavern Evolve chocolate
outdoors and creating a more inclusive world.
Mt Baker Mini Mall
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 The Slow Lane It wasn't that long before One Way Books moved on, or went out of business; I
When a store called The Body Wrapper came to my hometown don't remember. That little building was torn down and a bigger building is
By Robert Ashworth
now in its place; it’s now the Washington State University Transportation
During high school, I was attracted to the looks of young slim men with long office. Maybe its biggest product, these days, is parking permits.
hair; the hippie look.
This may be an urban legend, but that art teacher, who called Jesus Freaks
Growing up in the small town of Pullman, WA, I didn't know much about Freezes Jeeks, said he was hired by the school district while he was living in a
homosexuality. Stuff like that wasn't talked about in polite society, but shack by the railroad track. They must have been desperate to hire him as he
something about men with long hair caught my eye. said he was able to negotiate some of the terms of his employment. He said he
would be willing to work for them only if they bought a kiln for the pottery
Walking home from school, one day, I noticed a new store in town. Some classes. They bought the kiln and he taught for many years.
long haired fellows opened a store called "The Body Wrapper." What a
strange name for a small town store, but Pullman is a college town. There may have been less knowledge and awareness in those days, but there
was a sense of innocence and informality that may be lacking today.
The Body Wrapper was a clothing store. It sold psychedelic clothing, art and
other strange things. When I described this store to a friend, she said, "ya,
hippies can be capitalists also."
Robert Ashworth, Bellingham
The only time I went in there was with a friend who wanted to try out the
waterbed in the basement. It was just to see what it felt like to lie down on a
waterbed. Back then, we were so naive that the idea of using a bed for more
intimate purposes never occurred to us.
That store must have been successful as it eventually moved to downtown
Pullman on Main Street where it lasted for several years.
Before the Body Wrapper, that little building was a store called Ozzie’s; a
neighborhood grocer from before my grade school days. I might have bought
candy there a few times, but the main thing I remember was my mom’s story
about Ozzie’s during World War II. Back then there was rationing of
consumer products to save resources for the war effort. Ozzie wasn’t a fan of
government imposed rationing so (If I remember mom’s story correctly) the
store closed during those years.
Today, something like rationing wouldn’t go over well at all. Just wearing a
mask during the pandemic has become political.
After Ozzie’s and then the Body Wrapper, that little place became something
else; "One Way Books;" a religious bookstore. It went from hippies to Jesus
Freaks.
My dad thought it was named "One Way" because they wouldn't refund your I grew up in Pullman, WA. A small college town in the Palouse Hills of
money if you tried and return a book that you were dissatisfied with. Washington State.
Turns out it was the concept that there was, supposedly, only "one way" to
God and of course, whoever they are, they all say, “It's their way.”
Even back then, I knew that people had been fighting over their various “one
way” religions for centuries. I prefer the concept of many roads to the top;
different roads for different people.
Growing up in a college town, I had a pretty good grounding in open
mindedness, science and respect for diversity. The church I grew up in is still
there and it's quite liberal. It’s called “First Congregational” in Pullman.
Jesus Freaks were thought to be a 1970s, "establishment" answer to the
hippie movement of the late 1960s. For some reason, I thought the Jesus
Freaks were headquartered in Spokane, WA; a city north of Pullman.
Hippies, in San Francisco, Jesus Freaks in Spokane; it made sense to me. I
was never a fan of the Jesus Freaks. It was just another fad to me.
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My high school art teacher was an eccentric character so he used to call the
Jesus Freaks, "Freasus Jeeks." This was before today's era of heavy scrutiny
over the teaching profession so one could get by with off the wall comments.
Most townsfolks were fond of that quirky art teacher.

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