Holiday party at museum

Start the holiday season off by attending a time-honored island event at the San Juan Historical Museum Thursday, Dec. 3, 5 – 8 p.m.

The museum heritage buildings will be decorated in holiday finery and aglow with sparkling lights.

The Island Chordsmen Plus and others will take the lead in traditional caroling.

Children of all ages will delight in the winter wonderland train set and Santa Claus will be a special guest, so have cameras at the ready for selfies with Santa. Warm up with Ivar’s world famous clam chowder, chili from Ernie’s Café, hot apple cider, festive baked goodies and much more.

It’s a free event and donations are welcomed. All proceeds benefit the developing Museum of History and Industry.

Contact the museum for further information call 378-3949 or visit their website at www.sjmuseum.org.

Meet Salish artist

Meet Coast Salish artist Ron Aleck during a reception scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Arctic Raven Gallery, and see a large selection of work.

Aleck’s work tops Arctic Raven’s request list for small carvings. His detailed and exquisitely painted herons, hummingbirds, salmon, otters and more capture the essence of the animal while elegantly incorporating Northwest Coast design elements.

“I love doing my work and have been carving so long that it has become part of me,” said Aleck, who is a hereditary chief on both sides of his family. “I gain inspiration from everything I do – from observing the way the light reflects off the wing of a heron to the positive reaction I receive from those who buy my work. If you put love into your carvings, then it shines out.”