August 10, 2024

Roger Repoz: Major League Baseball Outfielder

Repoz, who grew up in Bellingham and who has lived in Fullerton, Calif., for nearly 30 years, prowled the outfield for the New York Yankees for a season in the mid-1960s.

Among his teammates were several players often mentioned as part of a long list of Yankee legends: Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Elston Howard, Joe Pepitone, Whitey Ford, Clete Boyer and Tony Kubek.

Repoz's journey to the top of the professional baseball world began when he played prep ball for Bellingham High School and collegiately at Western Washington University. For the Vikings, he was the Most Valuable Player at the 1959 NAIA national tournament as Western advanced to the national quarterfinals. He was primarily a pitcher in his college days, but was an outfielder during his pro career.

The left-hander was twice named to the all-Evergreen Conference team, and in 1960 he was drafted by the Yankees. He reached the big club for a week in 1964, then began a seven-year stretch in the majors in 1965.

August 3, 2024

The Scottish Wickerman Festival: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Modern Celebration

Scotland, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and mysticism, is home to some of the world’s most captivating festivals. Among them, the Wickerman Festival stands out as a unique celebration that blends ancient traditions with contemporary artistry. Held annually in the scenic town of Stewarton in

East Ayrshire, this festival is not just a local event but a beacon of cultural expression that attracts visitors from across the globe.

Origins and Evolution
The Wickerman Festival draws its name and inspiration from the ancient Celtic tradition of the Wicker Man, a large wickerwork effigy historically used in pagan rituals. While the exact origins of the Wicker Man are shrouded in mystery, it is often associated with the idea of ritualistic offerings to ensure bountiful harvests and community prosperity. The modern Wickerman Festival, however, is a far cry from ancient sacrificial rites.