The
INSIDE Letters
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 2 Contributed photo/ Gene Helfman
Sheriff’s Log
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 3
School board Q&A
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 5
www.islandsweekly.com 360-376-4500
Islands’ eekly W
VOLUME 38, NUMBER 43 • OCTOBER 27, 2015
Basking shark - monster or friendly giant? By Cali Bagby Weekly editor
With a massive body and a mouth that emerges from the deep blue like a manmade dungeon cell, the basking shark resembles a great and terrible monster. But this is an animal whose terror resides only in its appearance. This harmless creature floats through the Contributed photo / Florian Graner
A basking shark from the book “The Salish Sea: Jewel of the Pacific Northwest” by Joe Gaydos and Audrey Benedict.
water with its mouth agape under a bulbous nose feeding mainly on plankton. It is only its size and the industry of man that has brought the basking shark from an abundant population to the brink of extinction. Twenty years ago kayakers and boaters in the Salish Sea would have had a chance to see a fairly common dorsal fin that did not belong to a whale. The basking shark, who is named for “sunning” itself on the surface of the water, is called “sunfish” or “sailfish” in some parts of the world.
Thanksgiving Meal Baskets Please help the Lopez Island Family Resource Center assure that all in our Lopez community have a bountiful Thanksgiving.
To donate food or money to help buy the “fix-ins” for Thanksgiving Baskets for local families, please call the LIFRC at 468-4117. If you would like a meal basket provided, call the LIFRC for more details.
Basking sharks in this region are often referred to as the gentle giant slaughtered almost into oblivion. “It’s absurd. They weren’t a threat,” said resident shark expert and author Gene Helfman. The shark’s sharp decline started in the 1990s because high numbers were getting caught in fishing nets and the Canadian government authorized ramming to keep them from being a nuisance. For shark lovers like Helfman, driving these marine animals into near extinction is a travesty. He is a Lopez resident and the author of “Sharks: The Animal Answer Guide.” By the time Helfman was 13, he had read almost every book ever published about sharks. That passion still drives him today as he easily ticks off facts about the basking shark, an animal most islanders these days know little about. This species is known to enter bays and estuaries as well as venturing offshore. Basking sharks are often seen traveling in pairs and in larger schools of up to a 100 or more. Unlike the great white shark or hammerheads, basking sharks are known
November 7th, 4pm Lopez Center
The Complete Six Bach Suites for Solo Viola Performed by Leslie Johnson Adults/$15 • Youth/ $5 Outlets: PSR, Lopez Bookshop, Center office & lopezcenter.org
for being tolerant of nearby divers or boaters. Although there are reports of these sharks ramming boats while being harpooned. These fish are further described by Helfman as large, innocuous and slowmoving like the shark version of the manatee. In the British Isles basking sharks are an eco-tourism highlight and there is an extensive online database to alert visitors of potential sighting areas. “A diver could get in the water with them,” said Helfman. “But you wouldn’t want to ride on them – they are sharp with scales.” People have reported brushing up against a shark and receiving bad scrapes. Recovery? The basking shark is currently listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, basking sharks are listed as a species of concern dealing with the Eastern North Pacific population. Like many sharks, basking sharks are very slow to reproduce with up to a 14-month gestation period. According to Helfman, a lot of sharks take a year off to reproduce. “So you’ve got an excess of two years in a animal that doesn’t mature until it is 20 years,” he said. “They were never super numerous so they were easy to wipe out and will be slow to come back.” According to the Vancouver Sun, eight basking sharks were spotted in 2014 off the west coast of SEE SHARK, PAGE 4
Carol Steckler
Candidate Lopez School Board Position #5
Experienced Dedicated Involved
Paid for by Committee to Elect Carol Steckler to School Board Treasurer, Bob Sundquist, 37 Cabozon Lane, Lopez Island, WA. 468-3161
Community Calendar
ON-GOING: Ancestry.com Tutorials, available by appointment at the Lopez Island Library. Learn to use this remarkable tool available as part of your library’s digital access and discover where your family comes from! Call 468-2265 or stop by the library to schedule your 30 minute appointment.
MONDAYS ON-GOING: Learn a foreign language with the library’s digital tool Pronunciator! www.pronunciator.com The library is offering free tutorials, 4-5 p.m., library’s community room. TUESDAYS ON-GOING: Learn how to download eBooks! Free tutorials every Tuesday in the library’s community room, 4-5 p.m. Bring your device and log-in information (for Kindles your Amazon log-in info). WEDNESDAYS STORYTIME: Wednesday Morning Story-time at
Project PAL
A HAND UP NOT A HAND OUT
You make a difference when you round up your monthly OPALCO bill to help a needy islander! Or when you • make a one-time donation to Project PAL • become a Business PAL supporter
the Lopez Island Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Baby and Toddler Story-time; 11 -11:30 a.m. Preschoolers Story-time. Join us each Wednesday morning for rhymes, songs and books. You’re never too young to become a fan of stories! In the Helen Anderson Children’s Room at the Lopez Island Library.
FRI, OCT. 30 CONSULT: One-on-One Business Consults at LIFRC. Meet our popular business coach, Brian Jaeger, to strategize ways to move your potential or existing small business forward. You’ll be contacted to setup an appointment time after registering.
Vote for prop 1
A “yes” vote on Proposition 1 will enable the staff and volunteers of our Solid Waste facility (the Take it or Leave it, Recycling and Garbage) to maintain and continue to improve our state award recognized “dump.” Where else is the “dump” a tourist attraction?
One thing we all dread during an election period are the plethora of attack ads. Unfortunately, this ploy is
Lopez Business Hours Lopez Islander
Southend Restaurant
BREAKFAST 8:30 Sat/Sun LUNCH 11-4:30 p.m. DINNER 4:30-9 p.m. Sun-Thurs 4:30-10 p.m. Fri/Sat
Wednesday-Saturday 11:30-8 Sunday Breakfast10-1 Lunch/Dinner 1-8
Come in and enjoy our renowned special RR brand Prime Rib Thurs.-Sat.
www.lopezfun.com 468-2233
Beer-Wine-Great Food Delicious Baked Goods Weekend Specials, Deli To Go Items
Southend General Store Winter Hours 7:30 to 7:30 everyday southendgeneralstore andrestaurant.com
468-2315
SAT, NOV. 7 EVENT: Inter-Island Creative Affair. 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.,
Letters
Adams for port
Visit www.opalco.com/PAL and click Contribute
SAT, OCT. 31 CONSULT: One-on-One Business Consults at LIFRC. Meet our popular business coach, Brian Jaeger, to strategize ways to move your potential or existing small business forward. You’ll be contacted to setup an appointment time after registering. $45/1 hour session if paid by 10/16, $55 thereafter. Pre-registration required; visit www.lifrc.org.
to the Editor
TREVOR AND JOANNE BRYANT Lopez Island
All donations to PAL go directly to grant recipients.
$45/1 hour session if paid by 10/16, $55 thereafter. Pre-registration required; visit www.lifrc.org.
Just Heavenly Fudge Factory Sun, Mon, Thurs, Fri 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Tue-Wed Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Featured Fudge Carmel Apple Pie We have Seahawk Flags 468-2439
justheavenlyfudge.com
Publisher
360.376.4500 Colleen Smith Armstrong publisher@islandsweekly.com Editor 360.376.4500 Cali Bagby cbagby@islandsweekly.com Circulation Manager 360.376.4500 Bridget Wright bsmith@soundpublishing.com Display Advertising 360.376.4500 Cali Bagby cbagby@islandsweekly.com
Your online source…www.islandsweekly.com
The Islands’ Weekly • www.islandsweekly.com • October 27, 2015 – Page 2
even present on our small island. In the race for port commissioner we see one such negative ad. This ploy simply states what one is against instead of what one supports. It is less about merit and more about someone else’s flaws and is a poor statement of one’s true abilities. This plus the personal letter, mailings and people standing on the street with signs reeks of desperation. Another thing pleasantly absent from Adams’ ad is information about his family (his upbringing, how many kids, etc.). Again, nothing to do with the position. Adams speaks of the positive aspects of the port and the important goals for the future; making the airport a net-zero electrical user is one example. This is what we need and what I look for in a leader. I am supporting Stephen Adams for port commissioner. JACK PEDIGO Lopez Island
Adams has my unwavering support As a Port Commissioner, Steve works diligently to meet the diverse needs of our community. With practical insight into the port’s future, he has taken action to reduce
Graphic Designers
360.378.5696 Scott Herning, ext. 4054 sherning@soundpublishing.com Kathryn Sherman, ext. 4050 ksherman@soundpublishing.com Classified Advertising 800-388-2527 classifieds@soundpublishing.com Mailing/Street Address PO Box 758, Eastsound, WA 98245 Phone: (360) 378-5696 Fax: (888) 562-8818 Classifieds: (800) 388-2527
Woodman Hall. Holiday Season Faire & Food Drive. Fine Crafts & Treats from the Islands. EVENT: The Complete Six Bach Suites for Solo Viola performed by Leslie Johnson, 4 p.m., Lopez Center. Adults/$15 Youth/ $5. Outlets: PSR, Lopez Bookshop, Center office & lopezcenter.org
WED, NOV. 11 CLASS: Vessels of Intention. 6-9 p.m., Lopez Library. In this evening of meditative weaving with Mike Kaminskas, you will transform a Mason jar into a beautiful vessel while learning about its history, sacred geometry and the meaning future expenditures thereby keeping the port financially sound while keeping the port’s tax rate among the lowest for ports in Washington. The knowledge Steve has gained from interaction with the FAA, Washington state regulators, Washington Port Association, other small ports, and our citizens is invaluable. Steve’s long-term service to the Lopez community is admirable: 30 years as a Lopez teacher, 20 years as a volunteer EMT, fire fighter and chief, 12 years as elected fire commissioner, and 8 years as elected San Juan County Planning Commissioner. Having served with Steve on the planning commission and numerous other projects, I have known him to be thoughtful, honest and straightforward in his approach to solving problems. He encourages others to express their views on controversial issues and brings people together to accomplish the tasks at hand. The airport serves us all, with over 90 percent of its traffic coming from commercial activities, transportation of goods and services, medical evacuations, and scheduled flights from several airlines. Its operation is invaluable in many medical emergencies and remains the fastest transportation option in a possible major catastrophe. Its sound, safe maintenance is essential to our community. Steve’s experience and demonstrated leadership
behind the designs. Bring a mason jar; other supplies provided. $20 if paid by 10/28, $25 thereafter. Preregistration required; visit www.lifrc.org.
SAT, NOV. 14 CLASS: Content Marketing: Attract and Retain Customers. 9-noon, Sunnyfield Farm. This workshop with Tim Fry turns business owners into content marketers, giving participants a framework for creating compelling stories and then getting those stories in front of customers through a variety of media channels. $35 if paid by 10/31 $40 thereafter. Preregistration required; visit www.lifrc.org. make him the superior candidate for the job.
LARRY HENDEL, FORMER COMMISSIONER Port of Lopez
Steckler for school board We would like to encourage a vote for Carol Stecker in her bid for Lopez School Board. I (Chris) have known Carol since I attended Lopez School in the late 1970s and 1980s with her children. Through her children’s years at Lopez School, and now her grand-children’s, Carol has worked tirelessly and creatively for engaged, community-focused, meaningful education. Carol’s tenure on the School’s Finance Committee puts her in an excellent position to understand the schools’ financial position, and its needs in an environment increasingly squeezed by limited state funding and increasing mandates. We deeply trust Carol’s commitment to a well-rounded education experience including core subjects, critical thinking, music, theater, art, practical skills like construction, and multi – cultural experiences that help prepare the next generation for an increasingly diverse and interconnected world. Thank you for joining us in voting for Carol Steckler for school board. Chom and Chris Greacen Lopez
Copyright 2012. Owned and published by Sound Publishing Co.
mailed to homes and businesses in the San Juan Islands.
Periodicals postage paid at Friday Harbor, Wash. and at additional mailing offices.
Postmaster: Send address changes to The Islands’ Weekly, PO Box 758 Eastsound, WA 98245-0758.
Annual subscription rates: In County: $30/ year, $20/6 months. Out of County: $54/ year. For convenient mail delivery, call 360376-4500.
Member of Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, National Newspaper Association.
The Islands’ Weekly was founded in 1982 and is based on Lopez Island. The Islands’ Weekly is published every Tuesday and is
Sheriff’s Log The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office responded to the following calls. Oct. 14 • A mentally ill transient committed criminal trespassing by entering a Friday Harbor residence uninvited. The subject entered through an unlocked door and made contact with the residents inside. The subject left without incident but left the residents feeling threatened. • A Lopez Island man reported a possible deer poaching incident where
two men were seen loading a deer carcass into a pickup and concealing it. • An Orcas resident received a phone call from an elaborate scheme claiming a family member was in custody and needed bail money. The resident believed this to be fraudulent and did not give any funds. • A Lopez Island man reported that a smartphone he had lost months ago was currently being used to upload photos to cloud storage. The subjects
in the photos were identified and the phone was recovered. • An infraction was issued to a driver in front of the sheriff’s office for operating a motor vehicle without insurance, expired vehicle registration and no operators license. • A deputy in Friday Harbor received a report of a domestic dispute in the 500 block of Roche Harbor Road. It was determined that a person at the residence was having a mental health issue and it was not
a domestic dispute. • A deputy in Friday Harbor received a report of a possible DUI at business. The driver was contacted and was arrested for physical control of a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. The driver was booked into the San Juan County Jail. Oct. 15 • An Orcas deputy received a call about a hostile customer. The employee needed an incident report to document the incident.
Summer shows a buyers market By Anna V. Smith Journal reporter
The median price of residential and condominium listings in San Juan County have gone up since 2014, according to a report by Northwest Multiple Listing Service. This year’s year-to-date median price is listed at $695,000, up from $639,000 in 2014. Although median price was up, overall number of listings was down. For San Juan Island, the number of total active listings for the year-to-date was lower than in 2014, although the median price was up to $688,000 so far this year compared to last year’s median price at $620,000. According to Merri Ann Simonson’s real estate summary, the number of transactions this year is down 6 percent compared to the same period in 2014. “This decrease is attributed to the higher number of high-end sales that have occurred this year,” Simonson said. “Fewer transaction numbers but higher sale prices contributing to the volume.” Simonson, a real estate broker on San Juan Island, said that the market recovery is still gradual, but the two brackets of home sales that are showing the most recovery are sales under $400,000 or over $1,000,000, and predicted that by next
year buyers would be unable to find homes under $300,000 that qualify for bank financing. “Currently it is very difficult to find a nice home under $275,000. This has a detrimental effect on our community’s affordability and a direct impact on our first time home buyers,” Simonson said in the report. The MLS report combines Orcas Island, Shaw Island and Obstruction Pass in residential and condominium listings which has a similar story, with an uptick in median price from $775,000 in 2014 to $795,000 in 2015. Despite the increase in 2015 median price, 2014 actually had 34 more new listings. September 2015 was a buyer’s market for Orcas Island. According to Mariah Buck, managing broker of Windermere Real Estate Orcas Island Inc., the buyer’s market is transitioning to a seller’s market as available listings shrink. The average cumulative days for listings on the market in 2014 was 255, while the average for 2015 was just 155. “The median sales price is also going up because we are finally seeing higher priced homes selling,” Buck said. “For example in the past week, we have had
three homes priced over one million go pending.” Lopez Island, combined with listings on Frost Islands, had 11 more list-
ings in 2015 than in 2014, but median price dipped down from $625,000 in 2014 to $595,000 in 2015.
• A Friday Harbor resident reported that a package left at her door by UPS had been stolen. • A Lopez man was confronted by church staff for behaving suspiciously. An off-duty Lopez deputy was present and spoke with the suspect. The church leadership decided to have the suspect formally trespassed. • An unleashed dog on San Juan Island attacked another dog while it was being walked by a teenage girl. Injuries to the animal are unknown at this time. The girl was not injured. • A Friday Harbor resident reported fraudulent
charges on her credit card. The resident notified the bank and the charges are being reversed. The resident was unable to provide the credit card information because she had already destroyed the card. Oct. 16 • An Orcas deputy investigated a report of a vehicle on a Deer Harbor property that was moved and parked elsewhere. A key for a separate car has gone missing and fuel may have been siphoned out of another vehicle. • An Orcas deputy investigated a report of a SEE SHERIFF’S LOG, PAGE 6
FIBER UPDATE Rock Island Communications has been busy installing fiber optic broadband to homes and businesses around the county. This historic undertaking will provide fast, reliable Internet up to 200Mbps to those who want it. We’re currently managing over 250 simultaneous construction projects countywide. Here are some of the groups we’ve been working with to date: Current Group Projects Suncrest on Orcas Island Whiskey Hill on Lopez Island Cape San Juan on San Juan Island Mineral Point on San Juan Island Spring Point on Orcas Island Mineral Heights on San Juan Island The Highlands on San Juan Island Completed Group Projects Alder Forest on Orcas Island Eagle Lake on Orcas Island Seattle Pacific University on Blakely Island Alder Cottages on Orcas Island Upcoming Group Projects Gary Oak on San Juan Island Matia View on Orcas Island Portland Fair Area on San Juan Island
You Can Get Connected Too! • Start by indicating your interest online at: rockisland.com/connect • Learn more about organizing at rockisland.com, or attend one of our monthly meetings
MONTHLY FIBER MEETUPS Monthly Open Meeting Join us next month for this general information session. All are welcome! Next Meeting: November 4, 2015 – 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monthly Group Organizer Meeting Learn more about organizing your group at this session. Next Meeting: November 11, 2015 – 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Both meetings held in Friday Harbor this November (meetings will rotate islands every month) 345 Court Street Friday Harbor, WA 98250 rockisland.com
The Islands’ Weekly • www.islandsweekly.com • October 27, 2015 – Page 3
SHARK CONTINUED FROM 1
Vancouver Island but also as far north as Haida Gwai, an archipelago on the North Coast of British Columbia, Canada. NOAA researchers reported five sightings in the Puget Sound area in between August and November of 2014. In 2010 and 2011, NOAA Fisheries funded two projects studying the habitat and movements of basking sharks along the west coast. According to a NOAA press release, Southwest Fisheries Science Center has been examining historical records of basking shark sightings, coordinating with international partners on research and data collection, and deploying satellite tags on basking sharks. Three satellite tags have been deployed, one in 2010 and two in 2011. Tracking data from one of these tags show that basking sharks travel from the California coast offshore to waters close to Hawaii. Basking sharks primarily eat plankton and are entirely passive feeders – there is no suction involved. Because plankton is so
abundant the impact of the loss of this species in our waters is hard to measure. Plankton are tiny animals that can be found near the water’s surface. “I would be very surprised if ever a major population consumed a significant portion of the plankton,” said Helfman. “Plankton is an incredible resource.” And because there is a wealth of other marine animals that eat plankton – including whales, herring and baby fish – the plankton is not in danger of becoming too great in number. What may be lost if the species never returns is further research on some of the mysteries of the animal. For instance: what do they do for the winter? Research shows that basking sharks “disappeared” from the northern Atlantic in winter. It was speculated that they went into deep water and hibernated or mated. According to Helfman, more recently, with the help of satellite tags, researchers found they migrated south, as far as Brazil, but stayed as far down as 1,000 feet rather than feeding near the surface as they do in our waters. “In all likelihood, they are following food such as zoo-
plankton aggregations that are also in deeper water off Brazil,” said Helfman. “This isn’t surprising given that many marine animals that occur in shallow water at high latitudes tend to live deeper at lower latitudes.” But many questions remain about these creatures. Helfman recalled one story of a basking shark that was found at the mouth of the Amazon river. What was it doing there? We may never know. If the shark passes into extinction we definitely will not get those answers. For Helfman and other researches the inquires will never end. “It’s a fascination I have never grown out of,” said Helfman. Did you know? • The basking shark is the second largest living fish, after the whale shark. • Basking sharks have the largest liver: 2,200 pounds on land seven pounds in water. • They can grow to more than three feet in width, 5.2 tons and 30 feet long. Report sightings If you see a basking shark in West Coast waters, contact the sighting hotline at (858) 334-2884 or email basking.shark@noaa.gov.
A DVSAS advocate’s story by Kristina Moen DVSAS Advocate
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I am an advocate with the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of the San Juans. The two questions I get asked most often are: “Does that really happen on the islands?” (Answer: Yes) and “What does an advocate do?” (Answer: Keep reading…). People come to us in different ways. Some people call our 24-hour crisis line. Others are referred by their doctor, teacher, pastor, or friend. When law enforcement makes an arrest for assault, they give our agency name to the victim. We offer free, confidential help to anyone who asks, regardless of age, gender, or language. Our staff is diverse and includes men and fluent Spanish speakers. We offer advocacy-based counseling. This means that we work to empower people through reinforcing their autonomy and selfdetermination. Many people in abusive relationships are told by the person they love, through words and actions, that they are worthless and powerless. They often believe the abuse is their fault. The first meeting includes developing a safety plan. A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that helps people detect and avoid danger. This process helps them articulate and understand the cycle of abuse within their own relationship and how they can stay safe. We offer legal advocacy for people who are seeking protection orders. We help them fill out paperwork, prepare their testimony, and accompany them to court. We provide resources for people facing immigration, cus-
tody issues, or other legal challenges as a result of their abuse. We offer medical advocacy. We can accompany someone to a rape exam, help them obtain birth control or a pregnancy test, and assess STD risk. Sometimes abusers sabotage birth control or use physical intimidation to pressure a woman to become pregnant. Adolescents are at particular risk. Sometimes we respond to phone calls in the middle of the night. Someone has decided to leave their abuser, and they are scared. Where can they go? Their abuser knows their friends and family. What about their children? We can help them find short-term confidential housing and transportation assistance. Together, we identify barriers to their safety and overcome those barriers. Social and family support plays a key role in the healing process. We develop partnerships with local therapists so that clients can continue and support their healing. We provide services for family members experiencing secondary trauma. Our agency offers support groups for adults and teenagers. Some survivors of abuse find healing through participating in our community awareness and prevention programs. If you know someone living with abuse, call our 24-hour crisis line on Lopez: 468-4567. Have you seen the silhouettes on Fisherman Bay Road? You are invited to come and meet your local advocates at our Silent Witness Vigil on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 5 p.m. at the Lopez Center Pavilion.
360-734-8700 • 1800 IOWA ST., BELLINGHAM • www.deweygriffinsubaru.com 2015 SUBARU
OUTBACK
2.5i PREMIUM
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FDD, Package 11
MSRP .................. $28,472 Dewey Discount .....-$1,673
$26,799
2015 SUBARU
FORESTER
A comfortable trip outside your comfort zone.
2.5i TOURING
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FFJ, Package 31
MSRP .................. $31,673 Dewey Discount .....-$2,474
100606 4S4BSACC0F3359754
99518 JF2SJAUC6FH451607
2015 SUBARU
2015 SUBARU
OUTBACK
FORESTER
2.5i LIMITED
2.5i TOURING
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FDF, Package 21
MSRP .................. $32,172 Dewey Discount .....-$2,073
Vehicle shown with available accessories.
$30,099
$29,099
100520 VIN posted at dealership
2015 SUBARU
LEGACY
2.5i PREMIUM
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FAD, Package 11
100458 4S3BNAC61F3072185
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FFJ, Package 31
MSRP .................. $31,585 Dewey Discount .....-$2,486
100435 4S4BSAJC7F3351623
MSRP .................. $25,345 Dewey Discount .....-$1,546
$29,199
$23,799
2015 SUBARU
IMPREZA
2015 SUBARU
FORESTER
2.5i PREMIUM
2.0i PREMIUM
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FJF, Package 11
MSRP .................. $22,353 Dewey Discount .....-$1,154
100353 JF1GJAC68FH016030
$21,199
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FFF, Package 13
MSRP .................. $26,892 Dewey Discount .....-$2,000
99867 VIN posted at dealership
$24,892
2015 SUBARU
FORESTER
2.5i LIMITED
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FFI, Package 21
MSRP .................. $29,706 Dewey Discount .....-$2,207
100156 JF2SJAHC5FH565155
$27,499
2016 SUBARU
FORESTER
2.5i
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive GFB, Package 02
MSRP .................. $25,086 Dewey Discount .....-$1,187 -$1,187
$23,899
160009 JF2SJABC8FH826531
SERVICE DEPT. OPEN SATURDAYS 8am-4:30pm • MON-FRI 7:30am-6pm ** Pictures for illustration purposes only. Subaru, Outback, Forester, Legacy, and Impreza are registered trademarks. *A documentary service fee of up to $150 may be added to the sale price of the capitalized cost. Ask dealership about available accessories. VIN numbers posted at dealership. One only at this price. Expires October 31, 2015.
The Islands’ Weekly • www.islandsweekly.com • October 27, 2015 – Page 4
School board candidates | Q&A Del Guenther is running unopposed for school board position 3 and Dixie Budke is running unopposed for school board position 4. Carol Steckler and Georgeana Cook are running for school board position 5 for the November election. 1. Why are you running for the school board? 2. What makes you qualified to be on the board? Carol Steckler 1. I was a member of the school’s finance committee from early spring 2015 until the end of the school year,
and a member of the Project Development Committee from early spring through September. Thanks to excellent input from our financial team contracted through the Wenatchee School District and very clear processes recommended by our new superintendent Brian Auckland, the 2015-2016 budget process was clearly explained and the final budget approved by the school board. Thanks to diligent work by our architect and project manager, the process for decision making for the remodel project was inclusive, multifaceted
and led us toward decisions that involved the teachers, students, administrators, classified staff, parents and committee members. I feel well grounded in the school’s budget as well as the remodel project. I am excited to be a participant in bringing this project to fruition within budget and on time with the best value for dollars spent. 2. I believe I bring valuable information from these experiences to the school board. Georgeana Cook 1. Education and learning are vital to our children’s emotional, social and finan-
cial future. I am running for school board to insure that our children receive the best learning opportunities. As a previous school counselor, I value a school that is safe and supports the physical and emotional wellbeing of our children. Having worked at the Lopez School, I also understand the importance of a building which facilitates and supports the learning/work of students/staff. I am eager to roll up my sleeves and go to work. To bring accountability to the process by which our chil-
IMA reaches 10,000 visitors In September, Siri Dow became the 10,000th visitor to the San Juan Islands Museum of Art since its opening on Feb. 14. Siri is studying the sculpture of ceramic artist Kathy Venter whose exhibition Immersion is currently on display the Atrium Gallery. More than 600 students in over 30 groups have visited the museum since it opened its new building on Spring Street. These museum visits supplement their classroom work. This number includes classes from Lopez and Orcas, and from public and private schools, the mainland and kids’ camp classes such as Island Rec, and the French
Camp on Canoe Island. For years, IMA has worked to help fill the budget gaps left in arts education in our public schools. Arts education has always been part of our mission where IMA creates arts exposure and educational opportunities and provides students, residents and guests with the language of expression making us advocates for our most creative selves, the environment and our communities. IMA has a dedicated volunteer, Linda Marsaudon, who develops study materials and prepares the students before they come to the museum. She returns to the classroom after the tour to complete the
educational adventure and expanding the arts experience. IMA is happy to facilitate student tours and adult group tours. Call 370-5050 to arrange a tour. Of the 10,000 visitors, roughly 50 percent of the museum visitors have been county residents and 50 percent are visitors. IMA is overjoyed to help contribute to the success of Friday Harbor as a tourist destination. Venter’s work will be exhibited until Dec. 14, Friday-Monday from 11-5. Admission is free. The other two galleries feature “Michael Dalley: Early Dawn to Late Twilight” and “Joe
dren are educated. To insure their learning is engaging the hearts and minds of our youth, and if it is not that we take the time to stop and ask why and make any course adjustments when necessary. I am running for school board to bring financial health to our school district, clarify what is needed for our students to leave our school with the skills and understanding needed to be successful; to make sure teachers and staff feel supported in their work and families understand their important role in their children’s education. 2. Recently I had the opportunity to serve on both
n2
ists 0 ar t
tha More
the finance committee and renovation committee for the Lopez School District. Over the years I have had the opportunity to serve/work directly with other superintendents in other districts on various committees, which included: 1) Creation and development of a five year technology implementation plan, 2) Curriculum selection for drug and alcohol prevention program, 3) Development of comprehensive social and emotional learning plans, that incorporated learning styles, for at risk students. s rafter
and c
Inter-Island Creative Affair
Miller: Unlike Earth.” Exhibitions since the opening have been “Illuminated Glass” by William Morris 1998-2013, GLASS 3, “Spineless” by Susan Middleton, “The Twist of Rist: Lasting Impressions” by Luigi Rist, and Matthew Gray Palmer’s “Liminal Currents: Exploration of an Empathetic Umwelt.”
Holiday Season Faire & Food Drive Fine Crafts & Treats from the Islands
Saturday November 7, 2015 9:30 - 2:30 Woodman Hall, Lopez Island
Check out our green editions online… www.islandsweekly.com
Visit the NEW Hawaii.com Visit NEW Hawaii.com Enter To Win athe Luxurious Hawaiian Holiday for Two* * EnterFirst ToClass WinRoundtrip a Luxurious Hawaiian Airfare aboard HawaiianHoliday Airlines for Two
• Is Dad getting enough nourishment? • Is Mom socializing enough? • What about their health? • Are they really safe?
First Class Roundtrip Airfare aboardRental Hawaiian Airlines of Enterprise Rent-A-Car Five Nights at the world-famous Royal Hawaiian Hotel • Luxury courtesy Five Nights at the world-famous Royal Hawaiian Hotel • Luxury Rental courtesy of Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Voted Best Retirement Community in Anacortes
Experience Hawaii like you live Experience Hawaii like you livehere…on-line. here…on-line.
Choose anChoose Island an that’s right forright you,forfind of your dreams allthe theactivities, activities, Island that’s you,the findresort the resort of your dreamsthen thenexplore explore all shopping and dining in paradise! shopping and dining that that awaitawait youyou in paradise! more information to register, hawaii.com/luxurycontest For moreForinformation and toandregister, visitvisit hawaii.com/luxurycontest
CAP SANTE COURT
*Must be 18 years of age to enter. No purchase necessary. Winner chosen by random draw. Odds determined by number of entries. Up to one entry per person per day. Travel valid from any Hawaiian Airlines gateway in North America.
*Must be 18 years of ageDriver to enter. necessary. by random Oddsto determined by number of entries. Up to one entryCannot per person per day.withTravel anytravel Hawaiian North America. mustNobepurchase 21 years, present a validWinner license,chosen major credit card anddraw. is subject all standard conditions & requirements at time of rental. be combined othervalid offers.from Winner dates,Airlines times andgateway packageincomponents Driver must be 21 years, subject presenttoachange valid license, majorRestrictions credit cardapply. andContest is subject standard conditions requirements of rental. be combined with other offers. Winner travel dates, times and package components & availability. endstoat all Midnight October 31, 2015.& Visit Hawaii.Comatfortime complete rules Cannot and regulations. subject to change & availability. Restrictions apply. Contest ends at Midnight October 31, 2015. Visit Hawaii.Com for complete rules and regulations.
Home-cooked meals • Housekeeping • Linen Service • Activities Entertainment & more! All on one level • Staffed 24 hours a day • Studio, one & two bedroom
www.capsantecourt.com 1111 32nd St., Anacortes • (360) 293-8088
Your complete source for island travel.
Your complete source for island travel.
The Islands’ Weekly • www.islandsweekly.com • October 27, 2015 – Page 5
Seeking proposals for near term actions is calling for Puget Sound recovery actions designed to (1) protect and restore habitat; (2) recover shellfish beds; and (3) prevent pollution from stormwater in the San Juan Islands. The San Juan LIO NTA solicitation, which includes detailed information about
Submitted by LIO
The San Juan Action Agenda Oversight Group/Local Integrating Organization is soliciting proposals for Near Term Actions to be included in the 2016/17 Puget Sound Action Agenda. The San Juan LIO
L OPEZ ISLAND
NTA criteria and the local and regional review schedules, can be found on the San Juan LIO website (www. sanjuanlio.com). • The San Juan LIO Implementation Committee will review preliminary NTA proposals at the Implementation Committee
BUSINESS COMMUNITY
• A RBORIST •
• CONTRACTORS • Since 1971
No Job Too Small
Donald R. Burt, Sr. Carpenter/Contractor
All Construction and Home Improvement
360-468-2835 Dbo: Burt Enterprises 532 School Road Lopez Island, Wa 98261
• CONTRACTOR •
• COMPUTER
General Contractor BURTE**984C8
SERVICES •
MOORE WOODWORKS DECKS • REPAIRS • REMODELS NEW CONSTRUCTION • ALL CARPENTRY
ERIC MOORE 468-2743 GENERAL CONTRACTOR MOOREW*994DH
15 YEARS SERVING LOPEZ ISLAND
• EXCAVATION
& LOGGING •
A DIVISION OF BUFFUM BROTHER FARMS, INC. • LOGGING • BACKHOE • DRAIN ROCK • ROADS • SITE PREP • LAND CLEARING • GRADING • FILL SAND • CRUSHED ROCK • PONDS • SCREENED SAND • PIT RUN GRAVEL • BULKHEADS
(360) 468-2320 fax 468-3450
• HOME
Cont. Lic #BUFFUBE155MB
SERVICES •
From Blakely to Lopez
Always a Place for You! CTK gathers at 10:00 a.m. in the
greengablesinteriors.com
school multi-purpose room at 86 School Road. Come as
183 Lopez Rd., Suite E | (360) 982-7429 • L ANDSCAPE,
LAWN & GARDEN •
Bernardo Landscape Services
"Never a Problem, oNly a solutioN"
468-4357
• Metal • Composition • Torch Down Lic#CLASSRM92104
• Local References • Local Crews • Senior Discounts FREE ESTIMATES
• SITE
• Wood Splitting • Pressure Washing • Installation of trees, shrubs • Fence installation • Design, mowing • Lawn & Garden Care • Remodeling - Decks
Cell: 360-622-6644
LIC# BERNALS926L3
R&M ROOFING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that there will be an election held on November 3, 2015, at which, a ballot proposition authorizing the proposed MacKaye Harbor Water District to be created shall be submitted to the voters for their approval or rejection. In addition, the election of commissioners shall be voted upon should the District be approved. The election will be held via mail, and ballots must be postmarked or dropped off at a collection box by the date shown on ballot. Summary: MacKaye Harbor Water Company is currently an investor owned water system. The Company is seeking the formation of a water district for the purpose of construction, maintenance, operation, development and regulation of the water system. Resolution 21-2015, approving the ballot measure may be viewed on the San Juan County Council website at www.sanjuanco.com/council/resolutions.aspx Or you may contact the Council office at 360-378-2898.
LOPEZ ISLAND
$5.50 Square Foot
360-468-3144
C l A s siC
NOTICE OF ELECTION TO FORM THE MACKAYE HARBOR WATER DISTRICT AND TO ELECT COMMISSIONERS IF DISTRICT IS APPROVED
Local Doug Fir Flooring
• Will remove, trim & cut trees • Roof & gutter cleaning • Full excavation services • House painting • Deck building services • Brush Removal
A
30. For more information regarding the San Juan LIO NTA solicitation process, visit the San Juan LIO website or contact Megan Johnston, San Juan LIO Coordination Team Point of contact, 206-583-0655 or email at mjohnston@triangleassociates.com.
• FLOORING •
BernardoServices.com
• ROOFING •
meeting on Nov. 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Key Bank, 95 Second Street, Friday Harbor, WA. • A public meeting to review preliminary NTA proposals will be held on Nov. 5, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Brickworks, 150 Nichols Street, Friday Harbor, WA. • For actions that move forward, final proposals and information are due Nov.
BOND# LSMO042789
SERVICES •
DUNN SERVICES ✓Excavator Work
(360) 468-3215 dunn-llc.com
✓Tractor Work
SPRING CLEAN-UP WOOD CHIPPER FLAIL MOWING FIELD MOWING TRENCHING & SITE PREP ROTO TILLER STUMP & LOG REMOVAL POST HOLE DRILLING
Lawn Mowing / Fencing / Property Mgmt. LIC.# DUNNSSL922RA & BONDED
Ads Available for Just $18.75/Week
Call Cali at the Weekly 376-4500 The Islands’ Weekly • www.islandsweekly.com • October 27, 2015 – Page 6
CHRIST THE KING COMMUNITY CHURCH, There’s
you are! More info at www.ctkonline.com/lopez. Email: lopez@ctkonline.com Phone: 888-421-4CTK ext. 819. COMMUNITY CHURCH, Please join us Sun. mornings. Adult Bible study, 9:30. Worship Service, 10:30. Nursery (birth3 yrs) and Jr. Church (4-12 yrs) provided during worship service. Small groups meet throughout the week. 91 Lopez Rd., in the village. Pastor Jeff Smith 468-3877. www.ourlicc.org. GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH, welcomes you to worship with us on Sundays at 10:00 a.m. Children’s Church K-8 during the service. The Rev. Nancy H. Wynen,
Vicar.
Fisherman
Bay
Road,
468-3477
www.gracelopezisland.com. LUTHERAN CHURCH IN THE SAN JUANS, (ELCA)
SHERIFF’S LOG CONTINUED FROM 3
malicious mischief that occurred at an Eastsound address. Video surveillance was viewed and the suspect was identified. The suspect was located and issued a criminal citation for his action. • An Orcas driver cited for no current proof of insurance. Oct. 17 • A pickup trying to turn around got stuck in the ditch, partially blocking Center Road on Lopez. A tow truck was required to extricate the truck. The pickup was not damaged in the incident. • San Juan Island deputies responded to the area of B. Street to keep the peace on a child custody exchange. Oct. 18 • A deputy responded to an Orcas address on a report of a hunter shooting a deer on private property without permission. The hunter was located and was associated with another person. • A Lopez deputy responded to a car versus deer collision. The deer was deceased on scene and the vehicle showed reportable damage. Oct. 19 • A break-in was reported at a Lopez Island church. The building was damaged when entry was forced. Oct. 20 • A deputy recognized a white male driving in Eastsound that was known to have a suspended license. The driver was cited with a promise to appear in court and released for driving with a license suspended. • An order violation was reported to the Sheriff’s Office. The victim on San Juan Island reported the restrained person was texting her repeatedly and wanted to report the violation in case the restrained persons’ behavior escalates. • A San Juan Island person reported damage to a mailbox. Green • An Orcas manLiving noticed that someoneonline had dumped @ garbage on his neighbor’s property while they were away.
Please join us for worship and children’s Sunday School at 9:00 a.m. in Center Church on Davis Bay Road. Also in Friday Harbor at 11:00 a.m. in St. David’s and in Eastsound at 1:15 p.m. in Emmanuel. Pastor Beth Purdum, 370-0023.
Green Living online @
ST. FRANCIS CATHOLIC CHURCH, Come worship with us at Center Church on Davis Bay Rd. We welcome you to join us for Mass at 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays. Call 378-2910 for Mass times on San Juan and Orcas Islands.
WWW.ISLANDSWEEKLY.COM
PNW MarketPlace!
real estate for sale
real estate for rent - WA
home services
jobs
stuff
wheels
We make it easy to sell... right in your community
Local readers. Local sellers. Local buyers.
click!www.nw-ads.com www.soundclassifieds.com email! ed@soundpublishing.com classified@soundpublishing.com toll free! 1.888.399.3999 1.800.388.2527 click! email! classifi call call toll free! 1.888.399.3999 oror1.800.388.2527 WA Misc. Rentals Parking/RV Spaces
Health Care Employment
Dogs
General
1 RV SITE IN Wildlife Preserve
real estate for rent - WA Real Estate for Rent San Juan County
ORCUTT LANE CABIN 2 bdrm/1 ba Woodstove 550 sq.ft. $850 New Inventory Weekly See more at www.windermeresji.com Office: (360) 378-8600
Very private, no close neighbors. Has garden, green house & yard area. $450/mo, 1st & last. Eatonville area.
360-832-3891 LONG TERM ONLY
Reach over a million potential customers when you advertise in the Service Directory. Call 800-388-2527 or
www.SoundClassifieds.com
real estate rentals
jobs
Commercial Rentals Office/Commercial
Employment General
PREMIUM WATERFRONT RESTAURANT, an opportunity for fine dining on Friday Harbor. 2100 sq ft available 2016 + 1200 sq ft available 2017. Contact (360)378-8524
WA Misc. Rentals Rooms for Rent Friday Harbor
Apartments for Rent San Juan County Friday Harbor
announcements
Detached furnished room w/ bath, fridge, microwave, use of laundry. Utilities and WiFi included. Non-smoker/nondrug user. 6 mo. lease, Nov 1 - April 30. $650 month. 10% discount to Law Enforcement or Med. Professional. $250 deposit. Call Bart at 360298-8691
Roomate Wanted! Roommate Needed! Room for rent in a three bedroom house located close to the town of Friday Harbor. $450/month, $250 Deposit. Last Required. Text/call Doug at 952454-2142 or email at worldfresh@gmail.com More Information and Pictures at www.dongalt.com
Lost
ISLAND PETS lost/ found. On Lopez call Jane 360-468-2591; Joyce, 360-468-2258; Sheriff’s Office 360-3784151. Lopez Animal Protection Society, PO Box 474, Lopez, WA 98261. On Orcas call 360-3766777. On San Juan call the Animal Shelter 360378-2158
Advertising is... a piece print & of cake online 24/7
Office Hours: 8-5pm Monday to Friday
The results are even sweeter!
PROGRAM ASSISTANT
REPORTER The award - winning newspaper Islands Sounder in the beautiful San Juan Islands of Washington State is seeking an energetic, detailed - oriented reporter to write articles and features. Experience in photography and Adobe InDesign a plus. Applicants must be able to work in a team-oriented, deadline - driven environment, possess excellent writing skills, have a knowledge of community news and be able to write about multiple topics. Must relocate to Orcas Island, WA. This is a full-time position that includes excellent benefits: medical, dental, life insurance, 401k, paid vacation, sick and holidays. EOE. No calls please. Send resume with cover letter, three or more non-returnable clips in PDF or Text format and references to careers@soundpublishing.com or mail to: HR/GARIS Sound Publishing, Inc. 11323 Commando Rd W, Main Unit Everett, WA 98204
SOLD IT? FOUND IT? Let us know by calling 1-800-388-2527 so we can cancel your ad. San Juan County is seeking a
United General District 304 is seeking the position of Program Assistant to provide support to the Community Health Outreach Programs and its partnership with the Lopez Island Prevention Coalition. This position will be based on Lopez Island. This is a parttime grant-funded position of 16 hours per week, typically working a Tuesday through Friday schedule. Applicants must have familiarity with local community, demonstrated ability to form relationships with strategic partners, ability to speak effectively and professionally, ability to identify problems, ability to write clear and concise documents, self-directed and have excellent organizational and multi-tasking skills. This position will complete varied clerical duties along with coordinating events, organizing and attending meetings and updating social media sites. Candidates must have high school diploma or equivalent; associates degree preferred and a minimum of 3 years of clerical experience in a professional setting. To obtain a full job description and application packet please contact Carol Hawk at (360) 854-7170 or Carol.Hawk@ unitedgeneral.org. Complete application packets must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2015 to be considered. United General District 304 is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace
BUILDING INSPECTOR For a detailed job description and application materials, visit www.sanjuanco.com or call 360-370-7402. Open until filled. EOE.
SOLD IT? FOUND IT? Let us know by calling 1-800-388-2527 so we can cancel your ad. Classifieds. We’ve got you covered. 800-388-2527
Flea Market
DINING ROOM SET. 4 chairs. Leaf. $150. 360376-4509.
garage sales - WA
pets/animals PIXIE BOBS Cat KittenTICA Registered. Playful, lots of fun! Hypo-allergenic, short hair, some polydactyl, short tails, very loving and loyal. Box trained. Excellent markings. All shots and wormed. Guaranteed! Taking deposits now! Ready for Forever Homes in July/August. Prices starting at $350. Call for appointment: 425-235-3193 (Renton)
Find your perfect pet in the Classifieds. www.SoundClassifieds.com Dogs
8 AMERICAN AKITA Puppies; four male and four female, born 9/13. National Champion (Best in Show)/ Champions on both sides of pedigrees. $1,500 (spay/neuter). $100 nonrefundable dep to hold your pick of the litter for Thanksgiving/Christmas. Ready to go on 11/13. Pictures of puppies will be updated weekly. 253927-0333.
San Juan County is seeking a
SOUNDCLASSIFIEDS.COM 1.800.388.2527
Classifieds@soundpublishing.com
For a job description and application, visit www.sanjuanco.com or call 360-370-7402. Open until filled. EOE.
Don’t waste time! Start your job search now. Log on to www.SoundClassifieds.com 24 hours a day 7 days a week. A new job is waiting for you.
ORCAS ISLAND STORAGE UNIT SALE! WHEN: Saturday, 10/31 8am-Noon WHERE: Island Storage on North Beach Road WHAT: Solid Wood King Bed Frame (Head Board Foot Board), Women’s Road Bike (Trek Giant), GE Monogram Wine Cooler-New/Never used, Weber Portable BBQ, Stainless Steel Shelving, Hiking Gear (ie REI Backpack to carry child), Running Gear (ie Garmin Watch), Girls Bogs Sorel Winter Boots, Boat/Sailing Gear (ie Brand new-still in packaging Gill Bib & Gloves) and more...much more. Don’t miss it! Nice items...great condition! (PS...We’d be open to private viewings prior to Storage Unit Sale date...first come first serve) Feel free to call x2177 to make an appt.)
transportation
www.SoundClassifieds.com
SOLID WASTE PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR
Garage/Moving Sales General
Cats
Find your perfect pet in the Classifieds.
SOUND classifieds www.soundclassifieds.com
flea market
GOLDEN DOODLE PUPPIES never-heard of price! Boys $600. Girls $800. Highly intelligent. Wonderful with children; not just a pet, but one of the family. Non-shedding, wormed, shots. Sire is a Blonde Standard medium Poodle. Dame is a small Golden Retriever. Male 1 yr old Golden Retriever $300. 360-652-7148.
stuff Farm Fencing & Equipment
CASH FOR OLDER JAPANESE DIESEL TRACTOR!! Any condition. Call Dan, private cash buyer at 360-3041199.
Shop for bargains in the Classifieds. From tools and appliances to furniture and collectables. www.nw-ads.com Open 24 hours a day.
AKC Lab Pups $550 $800. Chocolate, black & yellow Labs with blocky heads. Great hunters or companions. Playful, loyal & healthy. Family raised & well socialized, OFA’s lineage, first shots, de-wormed and vet checked. Parents on site. Great service animals especially PTSD. 425-422-2428 https://www.facebook. com/Autumn-Acres-Labradors957711704292269/timeline/?notif_t=fbpage_fan_invite https://www.facebook.com/Autumn-Acres-Labradors-957711704292269/timeline/?notif_t=fbpage_fan_invite
SOLD IT? FOUND IT? Let us know by calling 1-800-388-2527 so we can cancel your ad.
THE ISLANDS’ WEEKLY • WWW.ISLANDSWEEKLY.COM •
Automobiles Volvo
2005 VOLVO S60, 2.5 Turbo. Low mileage! 4 door white sedan w/ sun roof and power seats. Tenderly kept!! One owner. Always garaged. Safe, well built car. Asking $6,900. Bainbridge 206-780-2328. Motorcycles
Old Motorcycles running or not. 360.297.4433
www.SoundClassifieds.com find what you need 24 hours a day
October 27, 2015 -
PAGE 7
Submitted by the Lopez Library
Contributed photo
Dee Williams in front of a Tiny House.
building small and the process of reassessing how we view our time on this planet. The Lopez Bookshop will have her book for sale at
the event. The library also features it in their collection. For decades Lopez Island has embraced smaller affordable homes and
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID SOUND PUBLISHING 98204
She’s been living in hers for over 10 years. “Admitting that I’m ‘happy enough’ makes me wonder if I’m falling short of my potential as a middle-class American; like I should want more out of life than this tiny house and the backyard, and the way it feels to sit on the porch and watch the sun come up,” said Williams. “But the facts are the facts: I found a certain bigness in my little house—-a sense of largeness, freedom, and happiness that comes when you see there’s no place else you’d rather be.” Williams is the author of “The Big Tiny,” which is a memoir of her experience
ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER
On Wednesday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m., at the Lopez Center for Community and the Arts, the Lopez Island Library presents the jewel of the library’s new series SHELTER as we welcome teacher, designer, woodworker, sustainability advocate, and designer/builder of tiny houses, Dee Williams. Williams’s life changed at 41 with a heart attack in a local grocery store. Diagnosed with a heart condition, the shortness of life, the relevance of how she spent her time and making a priority of the people she loved, became very clear. Selling a large craftsman home she had painstakingly restored she let go of mortgage payments, constant repairs, and her concepts of ownership.
Extra rooms in a home, rarely used appliances, multiple trips to Home Depot became an advesary of time and space. Sitting in a doctor’s office she read an article on original tiny house designer and advocate (at the time Tumbleweed Homes) Jay Shafer who for twenty years has designed high-functioning tiny homes, meeting needs without waste or excess. Says Williams, “When I first saw an image of Jay Shafer’s little house, there was some sort of ancient DNA strand that clicked in and said everything is going to be ok.” She traveled to meet with him, bought one of his designs and built her 84 square foot home on her own. She now leads workshops, assists on other tiny home builds and advocates for tiny homes.
Islands’ Weekly PO Box 758 Eastsound, WA 98245
SHELTER series | Tiny home author and advocate
homes that don’t fit the conventional expectation of a home in this country. This is the night to celebrate our unique legacy. The library encourages all to take part in this exceptional evening of discovering that the important stuff isn’t stuff.
Lopez Youth hard at work all summer LOPEZ ISLAND
$259,000
SWEEPING SWIFT BAY VIEWS
Freshly painted 3 BR/2 BA manuf. home w/ deck & garage on a dead end lane. Shared well & water catchment. Near Swift Bay beach path. #788961
$525,000 MID ISLAND ACREAGE-FARM-HOME
37+ acres w/older 2 BR/1.5 BA home & garage. 2 small barns, garden, fruit trees & sweet pond. Partially fenced pasture + great well. #855981
$115,000
by Emmett J. Lawrence Special to the Weekly
The Lopez Island Conservation Corps had another successful summer program in 2015. Buoyed by a strong turnout of motivated youth, the crew exceeded expectations. In total, there was a crew of seven this season Jana Gruenwald, Alyssa Hamlin, Claire Roberson, Marvin Snapp, Tyler Sovelove and Galen Westervelt. With a balance of different personalities, genders and skills the crew grew into a great team as the summer progressed. It was the first season for all of the crew members, as well as crew leader Emmett Lawrence, so there was a natural learning curve, but after a couple weeks of working together things really started jelling. The crew worked in six different locations throughout San Juan County (SJC), ranging from Watmough Bay and Iceberg Point, to Patos Island and Moran State Park. In total, they served nearly 920 hours, cumulatively, in public recreation areas this summer. In 2015, the LICC improved close to 8,000 feet of trails, filled 25 fifteen-gallon trash bags with the flower buds of invasive thistles, and constructed a variety of different trail structures within SJC. Another valuable part of the summer schedule was the environmental education curriculum. This portion of the program relied on the knowledge, skills, and generosity of local community members who came out to share with the crew. They learned about archaeology and oral history of native people, local ecosystems, invasive species,
CAPE ST. MARY ESTATES
Lightly wooded 1.5 AC w/ walking path to middle of property has water & power to lot line. Easy private beach access in this neighborhood. #790432
(360) 468-3344 • Toll free 866-468-3344 Friendly Isle Building in the Village Website: http://www.wrelopez.com E-mail - wrehome@wrelopez.com • Member NWMLS
The Islands’ Weekly • www.islandsweekly.com • October 27, 2015 – Page 8
Contributed photo
LICC with SJICC at Patos Island Lighthouse poetry and art in nature, leave no trace outdoor ethics, and basic First aid and CPR. There was also a series of visits to farms, where the crew learned about the processes of making milk, bee keeping, compost production, and seed saving. The crew wishes to extend its thanks to the LICC board members, the Bureau of Land Management, and all the community members who worked with them.