Almanac - Whidbey Almanac 2016 by Sound Publishing

almanac Whidbey Island

H I S TO RY

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PEOPLE

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FAC T S

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FIGURES

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EVENTS

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LIFE

2016

The complete guide to living on Whidbey Island A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES, SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD & THE WHIDBEY EXAMINER

Live the Island dream… “Janet’s professionalism, intuition & Island knowledge are phenomenal!” - Jeff & Nora “Genuine, creative, outstanding service... Janet is truly a pleasure to work with!” - Arlynn & Chris

FRONT STREET REALTY Drop by my office next to the Coupeville Wharf 22 NW Front St., Suite B • Coupeville 360-678-6100 • 206-387-1924 • www.janetburchfield.com

HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

contents

Pg. 3 ... Oak Harbor Pg. 11 ... Government Pg. 13 ... Education Pg. 16 ... NAS Whidbey Pg. 19 ... Libraries Pg. 20 ... Coupeville Pg. 22 ... Farmers Markets Pg. 23 ... Climate Pg. 24 ... Greenbank Pg. 26 ... Transportation Pg. 28 ... Utilities & Services Pg. 31 ... Freeland Pg. 33 ... Business & Economy Pg. 34 ... Whidbey Island Map Pg. 37 ... Bayview Pg. 38 ... Marinas Pg. 39 ... Parks Pg. 43 ... Langley Pg. 45 ... Arts & Entertainment Pg. 48 ... Clinton Pg. 49 ... Churches Pg. 51 ... Events Calendar Pg. 55 ... Clubs & Organizations

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Oak Harbor File photo

Oak Harbor hosts a Fourth of July Parade every summer.

Oak Harbor is urban, yet rural Oak Harbor, Whidbey's largest city, has a distinctly different feel than the rest of the island. It's the commercial, retail and financial

hub and is home to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, the economic driver on the north end of the island and beyond. Yet it strives to remain true to its roots, recently planting hundreds of the Garry Oaks for which it's named. SEE PAGE 5

EXECUTIVE EDITOR and PUBLISHER | Keven R. Graves ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER | Kimberlly Winjum EDITOR | Megan Hansen

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ADMINISTRATIVE MGR. | Heather Schmidt COPY & PHOTOS | Justin Burnett, Ron Newberry, Ben Watanabe, Evan Thompson, Dan Richman, Jim Waller, Kate Daniel and Debra Vaughn MARKETING | Phil DuBois, Nora Durand & Teri Mendiola CREATIVE | Rebecca Collins, Jen Miller, Caitlin Frost & Michelle Wolfensparger Additional copies of the Almanac can be obtained: SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD | 360-316-7276 WHIDBEY EXAMINER | 360-675-6611 WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES | 360-675-6611 PO Box 1200, 107 S. Main Street, Suite E101 Coupeville, WA 98239

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HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

Whidbey’s Favorite

GREAT FRESH SEAFOOD MENU! Mount Baker creates a majestic scene behind Oak Harbor Marina. CONTINUED FROM 3

The Navy helped to build up Oak Harbor. Unlike other Whidbey communities, it's filled with familiar chain stores, as well as homegrown businesses. It’s the only place to find a full line of fast-food, family and ethnic restaurants, as well as many large retailers —- Home Depot, Walmart, Walgreens, Big 5, Office

Wild Fish Sandwiches • Salads Fresh Shellfish • Specialty Fish & Chips Homemade Soups • Gourmet Burgers

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WH I

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FA N TA S I A DANCE & MOTION BOUTIQUE

Featuring Fair Trade/Eco Friendly Clothing & Accessories for Dance, Fitness & Yoga Fashionables, Gifts & More

www.fantasiadanceandmotion.com 770 SE Pioneer Way • Oak Harbor • 360.240.8326 Monday-Friday 10am-6pm • Saturday 11am to 6pm

Visit Seabolt’s at Deception Pass! Lots of Seabolt’s products, camping supplies, fuel, and its own distinct menu.

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Bayview Embroidery ’N Print “high quality -not high prices”

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You will always be a veteran… we will always get you home. Wayne Locke

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HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

WHIDBEY ALMANAC 2016

ISLAND PERIODONTICS & IMPLANTS PATRICK W. BENNETT DDS, MSD, PLLC Periodontics Implants Gum Recession Extraction Grafts 360-682-6212 360-720-2847 (FAX) 520 E Whidbey Ave Ste 208 Oak Harbor

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File photo

Oak Harbor features several locations to walk along the water. CONTINUED FROM 5 The city is surrounded by nature. Rolling farmland and the waters of Puget Sound Max —- and plenty of coffee shops. encompass the community. Just a few miles The city’s historical downtown, free of chain north is Deception Pass, one of the most popustores, offers clothes, antiques, gifts, cafes and lar and scenic parks in the Northwest. restaurants. It's just a quick walk to the waterfront and to the city's large, popular marina. SEE PAGE 10

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HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

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Oak Harbor by the numbers Incorporated on May 14, 1915 City Hall: 865 Southeast Barrington Drive, 360-279-4500 Utilities: 360-279-4530 Pay utilities online: www.oakharbor.org/billpay/ index.cfm

Median value of homes, 2010-14: $221,100 (U.S.: $175,700) Median household income, 2010-14: $48,392 (U.S.: $53,482) (Source: U.S. Census Bureau)

Population estimate for 2014: 22,306 Persons under 18 in 2010: 28.3 percent (U.S.: 24 percent) Persons 65 and older in 2010: 10.3 percent (U.S.: 13 percent)

LARGEST EMPLOYERS Government: NAS Whidbey, 10,000 employees Municipal: Oak Harbor School District, 650 Private: Walmart, 210

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HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

Government

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Whidbey Island has four public fire departments that serve all areas of the island.

Agencies, entities serve all parts of the island On April 4, 1853, Island County’s first three commissioners held their first meeting in Coupeville, the newly designated county seat. In the years that followed, the county's population expanded to 80,000 in 2014, according to the state Office of Financial Management. Governance has become much more complicated over the years, but the basic function of county government remains the same. County affairs center around three elected commissioners who meet weekly. They govern jointly with a group of elected officials with the following jobs: Assessor: Determines property values for tax purposes and calculates property tax rates to collect the proper amount for schools, the county and other agencies. Auditor: Handles elections, voter registration and marriage licenses. Keeps tabs on county spending and is the repository for many government records. Coroner: Investigates unattended or suspicious deaths. Clerk: The repository for criminal and civil case files for the Island County Superior Court. Judges: The elected positions oversee criminal and civil cases in district and superior courts.

Prosecutor: Prosecutes criminal cases and provides legal help to county government. Sheriff: Provides law enforcement to unincorporated areas within the county, runs the county jail, supervises a civil division and runs a juvenile detention facility. Treasurer: Processes tax bills and handles revenues for the county and many smaller agencies. The county campus in Coupeville is home to the public works department, which oversees the county’s road system, solid waste system and other engineering functions; planning and community development, which handles longterm land use planning and building permits; and public health, which monitors community health, water and septic systems. Those departments are housed in the Annex Building and offer a central desk to allow people one spot to conduct business with the three departments. — Police — Island County Sheriff Island County Law and Justice Center 101 Northeast Sixth Street, Coupeville 98239 Business: 360-678-4422 (N. Whidbey) or 360321-5113, x7310 (S. Whidbey) Emergency TTY & voice: 360-678-6116 Emergency: 911 South precinct office: 1618 East Main Street, Suite 4N, Freeland North precinct office: 3155 North Shay Road, Oak Harbor

Oak Harbor Police 860 Southeast Barrington Drive, Oak Harbor 98277 Emergency: 911 Business: 360-279-4600 Coupeville Police 4 Northeast Seventh Street, Coupeville 98239 Emergency: 911 Business: 360-678-4461 Langley Police 112 2nd Street Emergency: 911 Business: 360-221-4433 Washington State Patrol 840 Southeast Eighth Avenue, Suite 101 Oak Harbor 98277 Emergency (statewide): 911 Business/Oak Harbor: 360-675-0710 — Judiciary — Island County Superior Court Island County Law and Justice Center 101 Northeast Sixth Street, Coupeville 98239 Island County Superior Court has exclusive original jurisdiction over all civil matters involving $50,000 or more, title or possession of real property, and cases involving legality of any tax, as well as probate and domestic cases. It also has original jurisdiction over all felony criminal cases and all juvenile cases. SEE PAGE 12

WHIDBEY ALMANAC 2016 CONTINUED FROM 11

Judges: Alan R. Hancock and Vickie Churchill Clerk: Debra Van Pelt, 360-679-7359 Prosecutor: Gregory Banks, 360-679-7363 Island County District Court 800 SE Eighth Ave., Oak Harbor 98277 360-675-5988 This court generally handles traffic violations, misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors. It also handles civil actions involving $50,000 or less, small claims cases up to $4,000 and felony matters for preliminary hearings, and it serves as Oak

Harbor’s municipal court. Judge: Bill Hawkins Administrator: Donna Rollag — Fire — North Whidbey Oak Harbor Fire Department serves areas within the city limits. The station is at 855 E. Whidbey Avenue. It can be reached at 911 or 360-2794700. North Whidbey Fire and Rescue serves the 55 square miles in the northern part of the county, excluding areas within Oak Harbor city limits. It can be reached at 360-675-1131. The district

includes seven fire stations. Central Whidbey Central Whidbey Island Fire & Rescue serves the central part of the island, including Coupeville and Greenbank. It can be reached at 911 or 360678-3602. The district includes three fire stations. South Whidbey South Whidbey Fire/EMS serves the south end of the island, including Clinton, Freeland and Langley. It can be reached at 911 or 360-3211533. The district includes six fire stations.

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HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

Education

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Whidbey Island features three public school districts in addition to several private schools. The Coupeville School District covers Central Whidbey, including beautiful, historic Coupeville, and presents a well-rounded expeOAK HARBOR SCHOOL DISTRICT rience for students and families. 350 S. Oak Harbor St. The South Whidbey School District, the 360-279-5000 Enrollment: 5,646 Whidbey Island has three school districts, second largest on the island, is committed to General fund: $60 million with a variety of schools, each with unique providing its students with the best educaCertificated staff: 370 tional experience, preparing them to become classes and extracurricular activities. Classified staff: 231 The Oak Harbor School District, the larg- capable, creative, caring, and responsible citiSuperintendent: Lance Gibbon zens est on the island, covers the north end of the www.ohsd.net/site/default.aspx The island also has several private schools island. The Oak Harbor High School offers a great and higher education opportunities, including number of unique classes, including robotics, three colleges offered by the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. 3D modeling and a baking and pastry class. SEE PAGE 14

Options abound for students to excel

ol ho

ids Presc sK

Heart to Heart – Hand to Hand

Public Schools

Where literacy is the heart of the classroom, active hands-on learning is provided, and your child will love to come to school!

‘

The

Academy

Full-time~Part-Time~Pre-school Programs ~Toddlers Preschool~Pre-Kinder~Kids Club www.thechildrensacademyinc.com

Oak Harbor Lutheran Church 1253 NW 2nd Ave Across the street from OHHS

360-679-1561

The Children’s Academy 1 12 mos - Pre-K 1162 SW Ft. Nugent Ave. Oak Harbor, WA 98277

The Children’s Academy 2 4 weeks - Pre-K 118 NE Kettle St. Oak Harbor, WA 98277

360.679.9282

360.679.2284

WHIDBEY ALMANAC 2016 CONTINUED FROM 13 Oak Harbor High School No. 1 Wildcat Way 360-279-5800 Principal: Dwight Lundstrom Career and Technical Education Oak Harbor High School 360-279-5801 Director: Ray Cone iGrad Academy 360-279-5801 Director: Ray Cone www.ohsd.net/domain/210

Broad View Elementary 473 SW Fairhaven Dr. 360-279-5250 Principal: Jenny Mouw Crescent Harbor Elementary 330 E. Crescent Harbor Road 360-279-5650 Principal: Kate Valenzuela Hillcrest Elementary 1500 NW Second Ave. 360-279-5200 Principal: Paula Seaman Oak Harbor Elementary 151 SE Midway Blvd. 360-279-5100 Principal: Dorothy Day

Midway High School 200 SE Midway Blvd. 360-279-5575 Director: Ray Cone North Whidbey Middle School 67 NE Izett St. 360-279-5500 Principal: Bill Weinsheimer

Make An Investment In Your Children’s Future

Inspiring. Caring. Transforming. Affordable. Fun. Our educational is based on two things: Christ-centered Oakprogram Harbor Middle School learning & academic We want 150excellence. SW Sixth Ave.to equip your child to grow and face life’s challenges with the peace and strength that 360-279-5300 God can provide as well asRaenette with the skills that an academically Principal: Wood excellent education provides-- we meet and exceed state requirements for what is taught in each subject at each grade level.

Olympic View Elementary 380 NE Regatta Drive 360-279-5150 Principal: Laura Aesoph HomeConnection 600 Cherokee St. 360-279-5900 Principal: Shane Evans Hand-in-Hand Early Learning Center 600 Cherokee St.

Oak Harbor School Offers: Make AnChristian Investment In Your Children’s Future • Full Computer Lab • Band PRE-SCHOOL THROUGH 6TH GRADE OFFERING: • Library • Choir Full Computer LabSports • Library • Art • Physical Education • Intramurals • And Much More!! • Middle School • Art

Registration Open for Fall Classes

• Physical Education

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Registration For Fall Classes in March North Whidbey Christian Middle & High School classes available on campus

“AChristian Foundation For Excellence Character... Christian World-view... Academic Excellence... truly priceless! In Christ-Centered Learning” 360-675-2831 Call 675360-675-2831 E. Whidbey Avenue, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 or stop by our offices at:

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675 E. Whidbey Ave. Oak WA 98277 “A Harbor, foundation for excellence in Christ-Centered Learning.”

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Christian Character.. Christian Worldview.. Academic Excellence.. is truly priceless! Artwork by WIWS Alumnus Alyssa Woodbury

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Whidbey Island Waldorf School P.O. Box 469 6335 Old Pietila Road, Clinton WA 360-341-5686

Whidbey Island Waldorf School: Where Learning Comes Alive!

360-279-5930 Director: Janice Gaare COUPEVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT 501 S. Main St. 360-678-2400 Enrollment: 931 General fund: $10.5 million Certificated staff: 62 Classified staff: 40 Superintendent: Jim Shank www.coupeville.k12.wa.us Coupeville Middle and High School 501 S. Main St. 360-678-2410 Principal: Jim Shank Coupeville Elementary 6 S. Main St. 360-678-2470 Principal: David Ebersole SOUTH WHIDBEY SCHOOL DISTRICT 5520 Maxwelton Road, Langley 360-221-6100 Enrollment: 1,473 General fund: $15.2 million Certificated staff: 101 Classified staff: 85 Superintendent: Josephina Moccia www.sw.wednet.edu South Whidbey High School 5675 Maxwelton Road, Langley 360-221-4300 Principal: John Patton South Whidbey Career and Technical Education South Whidbey High School 360-221-4300 Director: John Patton South Whidbey Academy 5476 Maxwelton Road, Langley 360-221-7879 Director: David Pfeiffer Langley Middle School 723 Camano Ave. 360-221-5100 Principal: Jim McNally South Whidbey Elementary 5380 S. Maxwelton Road, Langley 360-221-4600 Principal: Jeff Cravy

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Bible Baptist School 1701 Harns Road, Oak Harbor 360-679-6497 SEE PAGE 15

HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE CONTINUED FROM 14 Der Kinderhuis Montessori School 900 SE Dock St., Oak Harbor 360-675-4165 Island Christian Academy 5373 Maxwelton Road, Langley 360-221-0919 North Whidbey Christian High School 675 E. Whidbey Ave., Oak Harbor 360-675-5352 Oak Harbor Christian School 675 E. Whidbey Ave., Oak Harbor 360-675-2831 Wellington Day School 5719 Pioneer Park Place, Langley 360-341-1252 Whidbey Christian Elementary School 675 E. Whidbey Ave., Oak Harbor 360-675-2831 Whidbey Island Waldorf School 6335 Old Pietlia Road, Clinton 360-341-5686

HIGHER EDUCATION

Brandman University 1045 W. Midway St. Building 2739, room 116 Naval Air Station Whidbey Island 360-257-1277 Columbia College 1045 W. Midway St. Building 2739, room 117 Whidbey Naval Air Station 360-279-9030 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 981 NE 21st Court, Oak Harbor 369-279-0959 Skagit Valley College Oak Harbor campus 1900 SE Pioneer Way 360-675-6656 South Whidbey Campus 11042 Highway 525, Clinton 360-341-2324

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Oak Harbor is home to the largest district on the island.

WHIDBEY ALMANAC 2016

NAS Whidbey

Air Station a part of island community Naval Air Station Whidbey Island is the premier naval aviation installation in the Pacific Northwest and home of all Navy tactical electronic attack squadrons flying the EA-18G Growler. Adding to the depth and capability of the air station are four P-3 Orion Maritime Patrol squadrons and two Fleet Reconnaissance squadrons flying the EP-3E Aries. ECONOMIC IMPACT

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NAS Whidbey is the largest employer on the island, with 10,000 employees.

Whidbey Island’s oldest and most experienced real estate company.

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n With approximately 10,000 employees (7,200 military and 2,400 civilians), the base is four times the size of the next largest employer in Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom counties. n Direct annual impact to the area is estimated at $1.085 billion. In payroll alone, the base contributed $833 million. n That impact is expected to grow in the near future as the base prepares for the arrival of additional squadrons. n The number of veterans living near the base is three times higher than the national average. n In 2011, veterans in Island County received $44 million in retirement and disability payments. n The base has a big impact on education with nearly 50 percent of the students in Oak Harbor School District being military dependents. HISTORY

n NAS Whidbey Island was commissioned in September 1942 as an ideal location for the rearming and refueling of Navy patrol seaplanes operating in defense of Puget Sound during World War II. n The original base started in the area where Seaplane Base sits today. n In 1943, the Outlying Landing Field near Coupeville became operational. n Since then, the base has evolved into the Navy’s premier training center for electronic SEE PAGE 17

HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE CONTINUED FROM 16

attack and patrol and reconnaissance aircraft platforms. OLF Coupeville, an integral part of operations at the air station, is critically important for Fleet Carrier Landing Practice training operations, as well as a training area for search and rescue and parachute operations. GEOGRAPHY

n Located in the Puget Sound basin, NAS Whidbey Island’s primary areas, Ault Field and Seaplane base, border the city of Oak Harbor. n The base is approximately 1.5 hours drive time north of Seattle, and 2 hours south of Vancouver, British Columbia n The base's rural location is ideally situated due to low density aircraft traffic in the Pacific Northwest and proximity to global shipping routes between the U.S. and its East Asian trading partners. n Pilots assigned to NAS Whidbey Island squadrons are able to maximize their training and sharpen flight skills by taking advantage of the diverse geography in the region. n Like the other facilities in the Pacific Northwest, NAS Whidbey Island’s location is

ideal in support of the U.S. strategic pivot toward East Asia, as well as critical Arctic operations. TENANT COMMANDS

n Twelve Electronic Attack Squadrons, or VAQs, ready with the new EA-18G Growler, suppress enemy electronic capabilities through tactical jamming. There is also one reserve VAQ squadron and one active duty forward deployed squadron in Japan. n Four Maritime Patrol Squadrons, or VP, and one Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron, or VQ, provide multi-mission operations including various types of warfare, reconnaissance, ground forces support, search and rescue and counterdrug operations. n The Aviation Survival Training Center Whidbey Island provides initial and refresher aviation survival training. n The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit provides specialized training for personnel in the maintenance and repair of aircraft. n Electronic Attack Weapons School trains EA-18G Growler aircrew, intelligence, ordnance and maintenance personnel.

n Explosive Ordnance Disposal Detachment North responds to emergencies involving explosive hazards of all types. n Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 61 provides world wide passenger and cargo transport flying the C-40. n Fleet Readiness Center Northwest, established originally in 1959 at the Aircraift Intermediate Maintenance Detachment, employs more than 1,000 sailors, marines, civilians and contractors to provide depot-level maintenance. CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY

n NAS Whidbey Island was named No. 1 naval base in the world in 2015. The Navy recognizes the top bases in its annual Installation Excellence Awards, which compares how well bases are operated and maintained. n The air station is home to the Navy’s Bird Strike Hazards program and serves as proving ground for many of the initiatives to control collisions between birds and aircraft. n The base's integration with the local community and its numerous joint projects are seen as a model for other installations.

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HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

Libraries

Photo provided

Oak Harbor Library customers Dolly Lister, right, and Camille Brighten in a book discussion group.

Whidbey Island’s five libraries offer varied enrichment Five public libraries — in Clinton, Coupeville, Freeland, Langley and Oak Harbor, respectively — provide more than books. Storytimes, computer classes, public forums, plus downloadable movies, music and eBooks are just some of the ways Sno-Isle Libraries responds to community needs and evolving technology. Because the libraries are part of a network in both Snohomish and Island counties, the number of books available through electronic searches is far greater than those on the shelf at any one library. Some of the libraries are open seven days a week and into the evenings. Book groups and music programs keep Clinton

residents engaged. In 2015, the Coupevelle and Freeland libraries were among the community libraries to host live streamed Tedx Talk lectures. The Freeland library this year will bring in WorkSource Whidbey staff to teach classes for job-seekers. It will maintain a booth at the Bayview farmer's market on three Saturdays. Langley's library in 2016 will offer a threepart series on historical clothing and local-author visits nearly every month. Oak Harbor's library will sponsor lectures on literary topics. All five Whidbey libraries will embrace tradition with “Whidbey Reads,” the annual community reading event. The featured book for 2016 is “The Wind is Not a River," by Brian Payton. For details, visit sno-isle.org/whidbeyreads Sign up for a library card to take advantage of all the programs and resources Sno-Isle Libraries have to offer. Visit sno-isle.org for more information.

LOCATIONS Clinton Library 4781 Deer Lake Rd Manager: Debby Colfer Phone: 360-341-4280 Coupeville Library 788 NW Alexander St. Manager: Leslie Franzen Phone: 360-678-4911 Freeland Library 5495 Harbor Ave. Manager: Betsy Arand Phone: 360-331-7323 Langley Library 104 2nd St. Manager: Vicky Welfare Phone: 360-221-4383 Oak Harbor Library 1000 SE Regatta Dr. Manager: Mary Campbell Phone: 360-675-5115

WHIDBEY ALMANAC 2016

Coupeville

Ron Newberry photo

Coupeville has a vibrant agricultural community, which intersects with its businesses and residents daily.

Small town still houses central services for all of the island community Washington's second oldest, the town of Coupeville is a hub of services for Whidbey Island. The small town is the county seat and houses the main county campus, is home to the island's only public hospital and the Coupeville School District that draws students from throughout Central Whidbey Island. Located in the heart of Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, many 19th-century buildings are still standing and being used as homes, restaurants and other small businesses. At the heart of the reserve is a longstanding and thriving agricultural community, which provides produce to area farmers markets and restaurants. Being a central location on the island,

NUTS AND BOLTS

Population: 1,849 Male: 47.3 percent Female: 52.7 percent Median age: 51.6 years Estimated median household income: $43,610 Estimated per capita income: $27,373 Estimated median house value: $256,969 Median gross rent: $976 Source: www.city-data.com (2013 data)

Coupeville is home to a variety of festivals including the Penn Cove Water Festival, MusselFest and the Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival. n Coupeville Town Hall is located at 4 NE Seventh Street across the street from the Island County campus. Town Hall is where to go to

apply for building permits and zoning changes. The town also operates a water system and wastewater treatment system that serves residents living within city limits. For information about the services provided by the town, go to www. townofcoupeville.org n Puget Sound Energy supplies power to Coupeville. n The Town of Coupeville contracts with the Island County Sheriff's Office to run its marshal's office that provides law enforcement service to residents. Town marshals can also provide vacation checks of residents homes. n Many buildings scattered throughout town are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Owners of these buildings can get financial help maintaining them through the Ebey's CONTINUED ON 21

HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE CONTINUED FROM 20

Forever Fund. The fund over the past several years has doled out tens of thousands of dollars for projects that helped preserve the historic integrity of Central Whidbey. n The Coupeville School District provides the education for about 900 students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Coupeville Elementary School is located at the corner of Highway 20 and South Main Street while Coupeville Middle

School and High School is located on South Main Street at the intersection with Terry Road. For information about the Coupeville School District, go to Coupeville.k12.wa.us n The historic town is also the county seat and thus home to the county administrative offices. Residents can register to vote at the Island County Auditor's Office on North Main Street, take care of vehicle licenses at the county administration building and hash out legal issues at the

Law and Justice Center. All of those buildings are located within blocks of each other. n The island's public hospital, Whidbey General, which is changing its name this year to WhidbeyHealth Medical Center, is also headquartered in Coupeville. The taxpayer supported facility offers an emergency room along with an extensive list of medical services. A $55 million facility expansion is currently in the works. For more information, go to www.whidbeygen.org

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File photo

Almost every community on Whidbey Island holds a farmers market from spring to fall.

Farmers Markets

Locations, days vary all over Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island hosts a variety of farmer and street fair markets in the spring and summer. The markets feature agricultural and farming production grown on the island. Residents and tourists alike swarm markets up and down the island. During prime market season, one can attend a market four days a week on all parts of the island. BAYVIEW FARMERS MARKET

10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturdays, April through early November off Highway 525. Fresh produce, plants, meat. Artisan and craft booths; jewelry, fountains, furniture, toys, fiber art, pottery, cards, photography, clothing, garden art, hand-knits and more. For more information, visit www.bayviewfarmersmarket.com/index.html SOUTH WHIDBEY TILTH FARMERS MARKET

11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Sundays, May through

October at the corner of Highway 525 and Thompson Road. Family-friendly place on a lush meadow with picnic tables, live music, education features and children’s activities. Produce vendors can accept SNAP coupons as well as Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons. For more information, visit www.southwhidbeytilth.org/market.html COUPEVILLE FARMERS MARKET

10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturdays, April through October. Fresh local produce, artisans, crafts and foods. Located on the community green off Alexander Street. www.coupevillemarket.com LANGLEY SECOND STREET MARKET

2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Fridays, May through October on Second Street in Langley. Vendors will be selling everything from produce to art at this family-friendly event. OAK HARBOR FARMERS MARKET

4 p.m. - 7 p.m., Thursday, May through September on Highway 20 next to the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce.

HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

Climate makes island a comfortable place to live Not too hot nor excessively cold, Whidbey Island is, more often than not, an easy and comfortable place to call home. Blessed with the marine climate of Puget Sound, the norm is refreshing breezes, mild temperatures and modest precipitation. Oak Harbor and Coupeville receive an average rainfall of about 20 inches per year, compared to Seattle and Everett, which average about 36 inches per year. Greenbank, located in the center of the island, also has an average annual rainfall of about 20 inches. Precipitation fluctuates significantly as you reach the southern tip of Whidbey Island. Rainfall averages in Clinton and Langley are more in line with Seattle and Everett. "There are many micro-climates," said Tim Lawrence, director of Washington State University's Island County Extension. "In terms of the amount of precipitation, the amount of wind, the amount of fog, they change rather dramatically in a relatively short period."

Weather

File photo

Whidbey has a relatively mild climate,making for comfortable island living. December is usually the month with the most precipitation on Whidbey. Wind also makes its presence felt on the island, particularly on the west side, with the harshest winds hitting from October through February.

Mild temperatures in the summer months make the island an exceptional place for outdoor recreation. Most communities on the island hover in the low-to-mid 70s as a high temperature in July.

WHIDBEY ALMANAC 2016

Greenbank

Ron Newberry photo

Greenbank Farm features a cafe, cheese and wine shops, art galleries, an organic farm and other agricultural activities.

Greenbank is filled with agriculture and history in tightknit community Greenbank is a small, unincorporated community in Central Whidbey Island. However, it is a gathering place for events and a popular spot to hang out.

clAsses YOGA yogA CLASSES Workshops WORKSHOPS bed & breAkfAst RETREATS www.yogalodge.com 360.929.5985 3475 Christie Road, Greenbank,WA

The community hub is historic Greenbank Farm, which hosts large public events and markets, is home to small businesses and artist galleries, and is an education center for farm and garden programs. Greenbank Farm also is home to an expanding solar energy project. FUN FACTS

n Greenbank Farm has 522 acres of rolling fields, forest and wetlands and is a popular and scenic destination for dog lovers. At its spacious dog park, visitors can walk up a trail and catch panoramic mountain and saltwater views of both sides of the island. n The Greenbank Store, which dates back more than a century, is a popular stop along State Highway 525 to buy convenient items and has become a popular eatery since Brian and Nancy Cedar purchased the business at the end of 2011 and turned it into the Greenbank Store & Grille. The building is still owned by Tom and Mary Coupe. n The big red barn at Greenbank Farm was

KEY FACTS

Population (98253): 1,413 Married households: 60.6 percent Median age male: 51.5 years Median age female: 51.7 years Median household income: $49,861 constructed in 1904 and is home to weddings, bazaars, private parties and educational events. It is flanked by artist galleries and small businesses. n Pies are big in Greenbank, dating back to the farm's history in the 1970s as the largest loganberry producer in the United States. Whidbey Pies founder Jan Gunn sells her awardwinning pies at Whidbey Pies Cafe at Greenbank Farm. n In 1997, Island County, the Port of Coupeville and The Nature Conservancy purchased Greenbank Farm from its former owner, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, to save the land from residential development. The Port SEE PAGE 25

HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE CONTINUED FROM 25

of Coupeville took ownership of the 151-acre commercial core. The Greenbank Farm Manage ment Group was created to manage operations of the farm under agreements with the Port of Coupeville until the agreement ended in 2015. On Jan. 1, 2016 the Port of Coupeville took over management of the farm and is exploring new directions for the farm with the tenants. n The Island County Washington State University Master Gardeners have taken root at Greenbank Farm, where they've constructed educational gardens and offered workshops. Greenbank Farm also offers an agriculture training program for new farmers. n Island Community Solar has been working with the Port of Coupeville, the Greenbank Farm Management Group and a group of investors to install solar arrays in front of the buildings of the farm. n Greenbank is also home to the Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens. The 53-acre garden includes 10 acres of display and educational gardens surrounded by a 43-acre woodland preserve complete with nature trails.

File photo

Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens offer 10 acres of display and educational gardens.

Join us at the heart of Whidbey Island!

Greenbank Farm encourages you to come explore • • • •

Year-round dog walking, horseback riding & horse arena Master gardeners area, art galleries and shops Bird watching in the wetlands, fields, forests, gardens and pond Taste local and regional wines and fresh organic produce grown on site at the Farm Shop • Savor famous pies and cheese samples at the cafe and cheese shop • Learn about water catchment, solar power, and rain gardens • Rent our historic 100 year-old dairy barn for special events

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Transportation

File photos

Both ferries on Whidbey serve as part of the daily commute for some island residents. Others utilize the bus service.

Whether by land or by sea, Whidbey Island travelers have options Highways 20 and 525 link to form the main thoroughfare the length of Whidbey Island. Highway 20 runs from the northern tip of the island to Race Road, several miles south of Coupeville. From there, 525 takes over and travels south to the Clinton Ferry Terminal. Travelers can access Whidbey Island via the Deception Pass Bridge at the north and by two ferry routes. To find information on the ferries, including sailing schedules, visit www.wsdot. wa.gov/ferries COUPEVILLE FERRY TERMINAL

1400 State Highway 20 The Coupeville-to-Port Townsend ferry leaves

from the western side of Central Whidbey Island and sails across Admiralty Inlet to the Olympic Peninsula. Reservations are recommended for this route. It should be noted that this route is sometimes interrupted because of low tides. Check www. wsdot.wa.gov/ferries or call 1-888-808-7977 for information. CLINTON FERRY TERMINAL

64 South Ferrydock Road The Clinton-to-Mukilteo route links the southern end of Whidbey Island with the mainland and the I-5 corridor. This is one of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most travelled routes and sailings generally occur every 30 minutes when two ferries are in operation. Waits can be expected during the busy summer months, particularly on weekends. No reservation service is offered for this route.

GROUND TRANSPORT

n Island Transit offers free bus service the length of Whidbey, as well as routes that travel to March Point (east of Anacortes) and Skagit Station (Mount Vernon) to link with the Skagit Transit bus service. CONTINUED ON 29

HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE CONTINUED FROM 26

Island Transit also provides paratransit and vanpool services. Island Transit does not run on Saturdays or Sundays. For more information, go to www.islandtransit. org n Whidbey Island SeaTac Shuttle and

Charter offers daily rides to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport with pickup spots located throughout Whidbey Island. It also offers seasonal service to downtown Seattle and the Seattle waterfront, as well as personalized service to other regional airports in Washington and British Columbia. For more information, visit www.seatacshuttle. com

n Whidbey Island is also home to several taxi services. Whidbey Taxi Enterprises (360-279-9330), Ault Field Taxi (360-682-6920) and Oak Harbor Van and Taxi (360-675-1244) are located on North Whidbey; the Coupeville Cab Company (360-678-6666) is located on Central Whidbey; and All Island Express (360-341-8294) and South Whidbey Taxi (360-321-0203) are located on South Whidbey.

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Services & Utilities

File photo

The City of Oak Harbor is currently constructing a state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant on the waterfront.

Variety of utility services available for customers NATURAL GAS AND PROPANE

n Cascade Natural Gas provides service to thousands of Oak Harbor customers. The natural gas line crosses to Whidbey from Camano Island and serves city residents, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island and unincorporated areas within a reasonable distance from transmission lines. For new hookups, or to check whether natural gas is available in your area, call 1-888-5221130. Cascade Natural Gas accepts online, mail

and phone payment. Customers may also drop payments off at Saar's Market Place, 32199 Highway 20 in Oak Harbor and at Safeway, 1450 Southwest Erie Street in Oak Harbor. n Natural gas is unavailable to Central and South Whidbey residents, where propane is often used to fuel gas appliances and grills. Propane providers include AmeriGas Propane, 360-6755939; Corey Oil and Propane, 800-829-8541; and Skagit Farmers Supply, 360-331-1970. ELECTRICITY

n Puget Sound Energy provides electricity to

more than 34,000 customers island-wide. In case of power outages or for new hookups, including residential and business, or other inquiries, call 888-225-5773. Puget Sound Energy's customer-service offices are located in Oak Harbor at 231 Southest Barrington Drive, Suite 101, 360-675-9027, and in Freeland at 1794 Main Street, 360-331-3060. Customers may pay their bill online at www.pse. com, by mail, by phone or at either office location. A drop box is available at each office for payments made after hours. CONTINUED ON 29

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HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE CONTINUED FROM 28 TELEPHONE, TELEVISION AND INTERNET

n Whidbey Telecom provides traditional (copper-wire) telephone, TV, Internet and alarm services to customers in South Whidbey, part of Central Whidbey and Point Roberts. Call 866548-7760 to sign up for phone service, or visit the customer experience center in Freeland at 1651 Main Street. n Several providers offer some or all of those services to most of the the island. Among them are AT&T, 800-288-2747; CenturyLink, 877787-3987; Comcast Xfinity, 1-800-934-6489; Direct TV (satellite TV only); Dish (satellite Internet and TV only), 844-247-3037; Fidalgo Networking (Internet only), (360) 544-9660; Frontier (copper-wire telephone), 855-325-9702; Isomedia (Internet, including dial-up), 866-8384389; Verizon Fios, 855-885-3454; and Wave, 847-857-4713. WATER

n Oak Harbor provides water to customers who live within the city limits. Stop by City Hall, 865 Southeast Barrington Drive, or call 360-279-4530 to set up service. Oak Harbor

residents living outside city limits are dependent on groundwater. n Coupeville provides water within town limits. Visit Town Hall, 4 Northeast Seventh Street, or call 360-678-4461 for service. n Freeland Water and Sewer District provides service to its residents. Contact the office at 5585 Lotto Avenue, or call 360-331-5566. n Langley provides water service to its residents. Go to City Hall, 112 Second Street, or call 360-221-4246 for service information. n Clinton Water District provides service to south-end residents. Visit its office at 6437 South Harding Avenue, or call 360-341-5487. GARBAGE AND SEWER

n The City of Oak Harbor collects garbage and provides sewer service. Stop by Oak Harbor City Hall at 865 Southeast Barrington Drive, or call 360-279-4530 for more information. n Island Disposal collects residential garbage from all areas outside Oak Harbor city limits. Call 360-678-5701 or 360-321-1331 for service. n Island County Solid Waste operates fullservice recycle parks in Bayview (360-321-4505), Coupeville (360-678-3328) and Oak Harbor (360-675-6161).

n The Town of Coupeville provides sewer service. Stop by Town Hall, 4 Northeast Seventh Street, or call 360-678-4461 to set up service. n The Holmes Harbor Sewer District services homes in the Holmes Harbor area near Freeland. Call 360-331-4636 for more information. n The City of Langley provides sewer service for residents. For more information, go to Langley City Hall at 112 Second Street, or call 360-221-4246.

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HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

Freeland

Justin Burnett photo

Dianne Schwehr and Emmie Holm, both Freeland residents, enjoy a cup of joe at the WiFire Coffee Bar in Freeland.

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32 Freeland offers thriving business community Eateries, medical services, banks, retail shops, places to work out, a library, a hardware story, Payless; Freeland even has its very own ship builder. Summed up, this town has it all. Just 10 miles from the Clinton ferry, Freeland is home to 3,690 people. The unincorporated town was founded in 1900 and has since become the commercial hot spot of the South End. From

My specialty is... listening to YOU! Everyone buys or sells a home, or investment property for that matter, with one objective in mind. 3 decades of managing and selling real estate has taught me this is a process; my job is to help you sort through your options and determine the best steps to make a plan, YOUR plan, to upgrade your life! Experience offers Perspective! Marchele Hatchner REALTOR®

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WHIDBEY ALMANAC 2016 Nichols Brothers Boat Builder to the largest athletic club on the island, Freeland is a site to see. The town hosts the Celebrate America festival on July 3 every year. The festival is complete with fireworks and fun activities for the whole family. Nature is key to islanders in the Freeland area who enjoy scenes at Freeland Park, Mutiny Bay, Double Bluff County Park and Bush Point all open to the public. FUN FACTS:

n Double Bluff County Park, which is just a few miles south of town, has a spectacular beach with glorious sunsets. The park also offers an offleash dog area, considered by many to be the best spot on the island for man's best friend. n In 1899, Seattle visionaries Henry L. Stevens, George Washington Daniels and Henry A. White formed the Free Land Association to establish a utopian culture in which their communal socialistic ideals could be advanced. The association platted a town made up of five-acre lots. n Freeland got its name from its origins as a commune in the early 1900s. In the eyes of its socialist founders, land in the town was to be free for all people.

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KEY FACTS

Population (98249): 3,690 Residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher: 32.7 percent Married: 63.4 percent Median age female: 47.1 Median age male: 46.1 Size: 16.4 square miles

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U YO

R HOME TOWN C AF

Something for Every Taste & Budget!

Your Hometown Cafe for 41 years!

5529 E. Harbor Ave, Freeland WA 98249 360.331.7441

Food available daily from 6AM - 9PM

Melanie.Farnworth@rescare.com www.ResCareHomeCare.com

1642 E. Main St. Freeland

331-9945

HISTORY ✤ PEOPLE ✤ FACTS ✤ FIGURES ✤ LIFE

Business & Economy

File photo

Sandra Daggett poses with some of her prize winning creations. The Oak Harbor baker opened her business in August 2015 and is already supplying island residents with specialty cakes and other sweet creations.

Island bursting with entrepreneurial spirit on all scales Many resources are available for those seeking employment on the Whidbey Island, or becoming owners. Here are a few facts and figures about the labor force and resources for businesses on the island. INDUSTRY JOBS Agriculture, forestry, fishing, mining: 329 Construction: 2,611 Manufacturing: 3,816 Wholesale trade: 623 Retail trade: 2,660 Transportation, warehousing and utilities: 1,252 Information: 673 Finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing: 1,385 Professional, scientific, management, adminis-

trative and waste management services: 3,708 Education, health care and social services: 6,360 Arts, entertainment, accommodation and food services: 3,466 Public administration: 4,352 Other services, except public admin.: 894 Source: U.S. Census EMPLOYMENT STATUS Population 16 and older: 65,374 In labor force: 39,265 Employed: 32,129 Unemployed: 2,906 Armed forces: 4,230 Source: U.S. Census CLASS OF WORKER Civilian employed population 16 years and older: 32,129 Private was and salary workers: 21,276 Government workers: 7,365 Self-employed in own not incorporated business: 3,347 Unpaid family workers: 141

Source: U.S. Census Wages and salaries of military members: 50% Island County veterans: 22% Oak Harbor veterans: 28% Coupeville veterans: 19% Langley veterans: 10% Source: Island County Economic Development Council COMMUTING TO WORK Car,truck, van - drove alone: 26,916 Car, truck, can - carpooled: 2,899 Public transit (excluding cab): 669 Walked: 1,053 Other means: 874 Mean time to travel to work: 30.7 minutes Worked from home: 2,643 Source: U.S. Census INCOME FOR FAMILIES Less than $10,000: 724 $10,000 to $14,999: 379 SEE PAGE 36

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VILLAGE PIZZERIA 106 First Street | Langley 360-221-3363 www.facebook.com/VillagePizzeriaLangley

TIPSY GOURMET 221 Second Street, # 9A | Langley 360-221-4520 www.facebook.com/thetipsygourmet

THE STAR STORE 201 First Street | Langley 360-221-5222 www.starstorewhidbey.com

LAVENDER WIND 15 NW Coveland Street | Coupeville 360-544-4132 www.lavenderwind.com

THE BBQ JOINT 601 NE Midway Blvd | Oak Harbor 360-679-3500 www.thebbqjoint.com

SWEET RICE THAI CUISINE & SPIRIT 885 SE Pioneer Way | Oak Harbor 360-679-8268 www.facebook.com/SweetRiceThaiCuisine

SEABOLT’S SMOKEHOUSE 31640 State Route 20, #3 | Oak Harbor 360-675-6485 www.seabolts.com

LOTUS TEA BAR 710 SE Fidalgo Avenue | Oak Harbor 360-240-8888 lotusteaandyoga.blogspot.com

FRASERS GOURMET HIDEAWAY 1191 SE Fidalgo Avenue | Oak Harbor 360- 279-1231 www.frasersgh.com

DOMINO’S PIZZA 270 SE Cabot Drive, Suite 1 | Oak Harbor 360-679-4141 www.dominos.com

EWING RD.

THE BRAEBURN 197 Second Street | Langley 360-221-3211 www.braeburnlangley.com

SWEET MONA’S 221 Second Street, Suite 16 | Langley 360-221-2728 www.sweetmonas.com

PRIMA BISTRO 201 ½ First Street | Langley 360-221-4060 www.primabistro.com

PATRON 11042 State Route 525, #102 | Clinton 360-341-4101 www.patronwhidbey.com

INN AT LANGLEY 400 First Street | Langley 360-221-3033 www.innatlangley.com

GREENBANK STORE & GRILL 25189 State Route 525 | Greenbank 360-679-8268 www.facebook.com/GreenbankGrille

DOUBLE BLUFF BREWING COMPANY 112 Anthes Avenue | Langley 360-333-9113 www.dblfbrewing.com

CAFE LANGLEY 113 First Street | Langley 360-221-3090 www.cafelangley.com

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BAYVIEW FARM & GARDEN FLOWER HOUSE CAFE 2780 Marshview Avenue | Langley 360-321-6789 www.bayviewfarmandgarden.com

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Restaurant Guide

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