2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide by Skagit Publishing

ANACORTES Visitors and Newcomers Guide to a Special City and Island in NW Washington

2013

a n a c o r t e s v i s i t o r. c o m

Tuesdays: All Day Fridays: 9 am – 6 pm Saturdays: 9 am –5 pm

* $19.41 without Rewards Card. Tax and gratuity not included.

Prime Rib Dinner

Sunday – Thursday, 5 - 9 pm

Buy show tickets service charge free at the Casino Cashier Cage.

$ 95 Only with your Rewards Club Card! $16.45 without Rewards Card. Tax and gratuity not included.

*Must be a Rewards Club Member–membership is FREE! Visit the Rewards Club Center for details. Prices at time of printing. Must play Full Redeemed Value of buy-in offers. Limit one per person, per day. Managment reserves all rights. Owned by Upper Skagit Indian Tribe. Casino opens at 9 am daily. Must be 21 or older with valid ID. SVP-NVG

Welcome to Anacortes whether on a drive through beautiful Fidalgo Island or a scenic flight or ferry ride, you’ve felt the change of pace and already experienced some of what’s wonderful about this special place. You’re invited to “Coast 1215 Anderson Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 In and Hang Out” — as our chamber of commerce puts it — and discover even P: 360.424.3251 • F: 360.424.5300 more, whether you’re here for a long weekend or looking to put down roots. ©Skagit Publishing, LLC 2013 | All rights reserved Anacortes used to be known as the Gateway to the San Juans. Not anymore. Sure there’s a state ferry terminal here that can take you to the islands and editor Canada, but this historic city has long been a destination all its own. Our guide can help you discover, or rediscover, all the things that keep people coming back here. jack darnton As a seaside community, Anacortes has long been tied to the waters surrounding Fidalgo Island. We still work and play on the water, and you’ll find so Advertising director much to do. The whale watching here is world class, and the kayaking, boating, Mark Dobie sailing, fishing, crabbing and scuba diving opportunities are hard to beat. Anacortes has a long history of preserving open space and boasts wonderful parks and preserves. The Anacortes Community Forest Lands are one of the display advertising city’s treasures: 2,800 acres forever preserved from development. A trail system manager stretches more than 50 miles for use by hikers and bicyclists. deb bundy The arts are another ingredient that make this such a vibrant place. You’ll dbundy@skagitpublishing.com encounter wonderful murals and sculptures around town, and there are numerous galleries, concerts and community theater productions. We celebrate it all at the town’s biggest annual event, the three-day Anacortes Arts Festival that begins the advertising operations first Friday in August. fawn floyd, katie erickson, Strong schools are important to Anacortes residents. Levies pass regularly and Jody Hendrix, Dana PERRY, test scores here are consistently above the state’s average. karen sheppard, Patricia StowelL Our hospital enjoys strong support as well and recently completed a major expansion and renovation and added a medical arts pavillion with updated cancer care and physical therapy departments. design & layout Not many cities our size have such excellent health care facilities, and even fawn floyd fewer support a museum and library at the level Anacortes does. It adds up to a special place indeed. photographers

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

jacob buckenmeyer, Kimberly Jacobson, Joan pringle, scott terrell, frank varga

writers jacob buckenmeyer, kimberly jacobson, joan pringle

Advertising consultants Stephanie Harper, abby jackson, Staci May, Michelle O’Donnell, Kathy Schultz, Katie Sundermeyer, Paul Tinnon, John Williams

maps fine edge, anacortes

However you’ve arrived,

Welcome, and enjoy your stay whether it’s a day or a lifetime.

Table of Contents

» For more info, scan the QR codes with your smartphone to instantly visit our websites

History............................................................................ 6 Recreation...................................................................... 8 Viewpoints..................................................................... 14 Fidalgo Island Map......................................................... 15 Events.............................................................................. 16 Anacortes Map.............................................................. 18 Museums & Tours.......................................................... 20 Murals............................................................................. 21 Tribes............................................................................... 22 Arts................................................................................. 23 Anacortes Today............................................................ 26 Guemes Island Map...................................................... 33 Weather.......................................................................... 34 Directory of Advertisers............................................. 34

goanacortes.com

anacortesvisitor.com

An unexpected find. Discover Affordable Quality in the Latest Styles For Women and Men Offering a great selection of clothing & accessories

(360) 293-9888 520 Commercial Ave. • Anacortes 6

Rarely will you discover a jewelry store of this caliber anywhere... let alone in such a beautiful community. We invite you to come in.

ewelers since 1930

7TH & COMMERCIAL • ANACORTES 293-6469 • burtonjewelers.com TOLL-FREE 1-888-293-6469

HOURS

Monday - Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

History

For many years Anacortes was a bustling fishing, canning, logging and mill town. When natural resources dwindled, it found ways to adapt. Home to two major refineries since the mid-1950s, Anacortes has a strong industrial component that includes Dakota Creek Industries, a busy shipyard on the Guemes Channel that draws residents and visitors eager to peek at its latest projects. In recent years, the city’s quality of life and amenities have attracted a large population of affluent retirees. There are now about 16,000 people here. Before Anacortes became a city, the area was home to the Samish and Swinomish tribes, who still have a strong presence here. Coast Salish peoples thrived on the rich natural resources of Fidalgo Island for 10,000 years before Spanish explorers started mapping the area in 1790 and 1791. European settlers staked their claims at Fern Prairie, now March Point, in the 1850s. They raised fruit, hops, cabbage, cauliflower seed and cattle. By 1873 the island was home to nine white women. In 1876, Amos Bowman and his wife moved to the Ship Harbor area. When Bowman established a post office in 1877, he gave it the Spanish-sounding name Anacortes, a version of Annie Curtis — his wife’s maiden name. In the boom year 1890, the population jumped from 200 to 2,000 fueled by speculation the town would become a transcontinental railroad terminus. Land prices jumped from $50 an acre to as much as $3,000 for a corner lot. But the bubble burst the same year when the railroad selected Seattle. Hundreds departed, leaving behind many of the beautiful buildings that give downtown such charm today. Incorporated in 1891, Anacortes recovered as salmon and codfish industries grew. By the early 1900s hundreds of people worked at a dozen fish-processing plants, and Anacortes called itself the salmon canning capitol of the world. Dances were held whenever the fishing fleets came home. Trident Seafoods, Sugiyo and SeaBear still process fish today. Lumber was another vital industry. In 1911 Fidalgo Bay had 13 shingle and lumber mills. They thrived until resources grew scarce in the 1950s, and the last mill closed in 1992. Clear-cuts were gradually replaced by second-growth forests. A new industrial era began in the mid-1950s, when Texaco and Shell built refineries on March Point. Today the facilities, now operated by Shell and Tesoro, fuel the regional economy. The community’s tradition of land preservation dates back nearly a century. As early as 1913, citizens began donating key tracts, including the land that now comprises Washington Park, to preserve them for future generations. Today, more than half the area inside city limits is either park or forest, and 2,800 acres in the Anacortes Community Forest Lands are permanently preserved by easements. In the late 1960s, marinas and pleasure boats began to replace waterfront mills and canneries, and tourism and boat-building industries grew. Developers began building upscale developments, most notably at Skyline in the West End. These amenities, as well as the arts scene, recreation and natural beauty, attracted well-heeled retirees, allowing Anacortes to evolve into the diverse city it is today.

While You’re Here » Stroll the docks at Cap Sante Marina — and pick up fresh seafood in season.

» Visit the Cap Sante viewpoint located just blocks from downtown.

» Go whale watching and enjoy the breathtaking scen-

ery and varied wildlife of the San Juan Islands. (There are whale sightings on almost every trip.)

» Check out the W.T. Preston snagboat down by the

marina and the adjacent Maritime Heritage Center, both part of the Anacortes Museum, a treat in itself.

» Drive to the the top of Mount Erie, arguably the best viewpoint on Fidalgo Island. The lookout is about 20 minutes from downtown in the center of the island. On a clear day, the crystal blue Salish Sea studded with its gem-like green islands will startle your eyes and feed your soul.

» End a downtown stroll at Dakota Creek Industries on the Guemes Channel and peek at the ships under construction and repair.

» Plan a walk in the Community Forest Lands. There are trails of all kinds.

JOBS

450 full-time, family-wage

TAXES

$20 million in annual state

jobs for local residents

and local sales tax

HOPE

$125,000 in annual

HELP

2,300 volunteer hours in

charitable contributions

the local community last year

www.shellpsr.com PugetSound Sound Refinery Puget Refinery anacortesvisitor.com

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Recreation

The pristine waters surrounding Fidalgo Island delight sailors, fishermen, kayakers and whale watchers, while the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parks and Forest Lands tempt hikers, bicyclists and nature lovers. Whale Watching The breathtaking scenery and varied wildlife of the San Juan Islands draw thousands of visitors to the area each year for close encounters with nature, especially orcas. Three pods of Southern Resident orcas, the J, K and L pods, spend much of the summer and fall among the San Juans. Two charter companies provide whalewatching excursions from Anacortes. Cruises, usually five to six hours, depart from Cap Sante Marina. Riders may see orca whales as well as harbor seals, sea lions, porpoise, bald eagles and a variety of seabirds. Island Adventures 1801 Commercial Avenue 360.293.2428 or 800.465.4604 island-adventures.com Mystic Sea Charters 819 Commercial Avenue Suite E 360.588.8000 or 800.308.9387 mysticseacharters.com

waters of the San Juan Islands, whether for a quick paddle or a trip lasting several days. Paddlers can enjoy beautiful vistas and see wildlife from a different perspective while gliding quietly along a shoreline or exploring a secluded cove. People new to paddling can get a scenic introduction at Deception Pass State Park. Kayak rentals through Anacortes Kayak Tours are available seasonally at Bowman Bay, and a guide can take the whole family on a short trip. Anacortes Kayak Tours also offers half-day and full-day family friendly trips in the waters around Fidalgo Island, and multi-day sea kayak tours through the San Juan Islands. Anacortes Kayak Tours 2201 Skyline Way, Suite 203 800.992.1801 anacorteskayaktours.com

A major Northwest kayaking event is the Deception Pass Dash held at the beginning of December by Outdoor Adventure Center. Close to 200 kayakers race from Kayaking Kayaking is a great way to get out on the Bowman Bay in Deception Pass State Park

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

through the pass as the tide changes. More information can be found at rubycreekboathouse.com. Members of the Hole in the Wall Paddling Club take day and multi-day kayaking trips throughout the region and encourage safe kayaking. More information can be found at holeinthewallpaddlingclub.org.

Marinas Anacortes Marina is a privately owned condominium marina with 466 covered and open berths from 32 feet to 60 feet in length. Amenities include power, water, private laundry facility, restrooms and showers. Nearby facilities include a 60 ton lift, fuel dock and pump-out station. No transient moorage available. Annual leases only. Anacortes Marina 2415 T Avenue 360.293.4543 anacortesmarina.com Cap Sante Marina is owned and operated by the Port of Anacortes. It is on the west side of Fidalgo Bay within walking distance to downtown stores and restaurants. anacortesvisitor.com

The

Difference

Appliances Electronics Mattresses BBQs

Over

Major Brands on Display PLUS Live Kitchen Displays if ference D k c Bla N S TA L L AT I O N • W E D O I T A L L & ! dd Y•I Come Experience the JT Su • D E L I V E R R SALE

PA S • S E RV I C E •

Your Hometown Appliance, Electronic & Mattress Store!

LIQUIDATION CENTER | 2808 Maple - Everett | 425-258-4557 SERVICE CENTER | 2808 Maple - Everett | 425-258-4557 Service & Liquidation Centers are closed on Sundays 2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

juddblack.com

anacortesvisitor.com

— Dick Smith / Anacortes Yacht Club

The marina provides permanent and transient moorage with 150 to 200 berths for guest moorage. Floats have power and water. Other accommodations include restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, fuel dock, pumpout stations, boat launch and free Wi-Fi. CAP SANTE MARINA 1019 Q Avenue 360.293.0694 or 360.661.5000 after 5 p.m. portofanacortes.com/visit/the-marina

Cycling Mountain bikers can enjoy many easy to moderate trails winding through the nearly 2,800 acres in the Anacortes Community Forest Lands. Maps are available through the Anacortes Parks & Recreation department at City Hall and at the Visitor’s Information Center.

anacortes parks & rec 904 6th Street 360.293.1918 Skyline Marine Center is at Flounder cityofanacortes.org/parks/forestlands Bay on the west end of Fidalgo Island. The marina provides guest moorage, a launching visitor's info center hoist, fuel, pump-out services, shower and 819 Commercial Avenue Suite A laundry facilities. Old Salt’s Deli and Market 360.293.3832 is near the marina. Office hours are 8 a.m. - cityofanacortes.org/parks/forestlands 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. The High Tide Ride at the Anacortes Wa- 4 p.m. on Sunday. terfront Festival is Saturday, June 1. Routes skyline marine center 2011 Skyline Way .360.293.5134 skylinemarinecenter.com

Proceeds benefit North Islands Young Life.

Golf The Similk Beach Golf Course sits between Fidalgo and Similk bays, giving golfers views of the water and sometimes bringing light breezes into play. The 18-hole, par-72 public course plays 6,177 yards long. The course designed by Rod Turner is rated 68.4 and has a slope rating of 110. SIMILK BEACH GOLF COURSE 12518 Christianson Road 360.293.3444

Tennis

The Anacortes Tennis Club (no courts) holds clinics throughout the year for beginning, novice and intermediate players. It teaches basic techniques, tactics and strateare 25 miles, 50 miles and 75 miles. A 5 mile gies for this lifetime sport. For more inforfamily fun ride is also included. They all begin mation, contact the Anacortes Parks & Recand end at the Anacortes Waterfront Festi- reation Department. val at Cap Sante Marina. Sites along the way » Anacortes Middle School, 2nd Street include Skagit Valley farmlands, Mount Baker, Swinomish Channel and San Juan Islands. near J Ave., six tennis courts. 2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

» Clearridge Park, 1900 Block of Blakely Forest Lands Dr. next to the Anacortes Airport, two tenThe Anacortes Community Forest Lands nis courts next to a basketball court. encompass nearly 2,800 acres preserved forever from development under a conservaPool tion easement program overseen by the city, The 25-meter by 25-yard, 280,000 gallon Skagit Land Trust and Friends of the Forest. pool at Fidalgo Pool & Fitness Center has a Those acres include forest lands, meadwater slide, 1-meter diving board, Ollie the ows, wetlands, Mount Erie, Sugarloaf Mouninflatable Octopus, inner tubes and more. tain, and Cranberry, Whistle and Heart lakes. The average water temperature is 83 de- The 50 miles of trails in the Forest Lands grees. The water is treated with an ultravio- accommodate hikers, bicyclists and horse let system so chlorine is minimal. The pool’s riders. A limited number of trails are open to weekly schedule includes family/open swims, two-wheeled motorcycles during the warmlap swims, water aerobics, swim lessons, er months. Dogs must be on a leash at all aqua arthritis and aquatic therapy sessions, times in the Forest Lands. Maps of the Forest water walks, preschool and prenatal swims Lands are available at City Hall, the visitor’s and pool rentals. The upstairs fitness center information center and local merchants. offers aerobic and other exercise classes along with Nautilus equipment, free weights, Parks treadmills and stairmasters. Hours are 6 a.m. » Washington Park, 6300 Sunset Ave., is - 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - noon 220-acres on the west side of Fidalgo Island. Saturday and noon - 2:30 p.m. Sunday. The park has day-use and overnight campfidalgo pool & Fitness Center 1603 22nd Street 360.293.0673 fidalgopool.com

Dog Parks » Anacortes has a leash law, but dogs have a great place to romp at Ace of Hearts Rotary Park (38th Street and H Avenue). There’s a huge off-leash area and a special spot for small dogs. Plenty of water, pet waste disposal bags, portable restrooms — and lots of dog lovers. The park is busy all year. » A temporary off-leash

area is open near Cap Sante Marina at Ninth Street and O Avenue.

ing facilities for tents and RVs, a boat launch, picnic shelters, playground, showers and laundry facility. A 2.3-mile loop road around

(Continued on pg. 13)

Farmers Market The Depot Plaza is bustling each summer with folks stocking up on fresh vegetables, fruits and berries, artisan cheeses, fresh bakery goods and more at the Anacortes Farmers Market. Look for fresh fish, jam, honey, coffee, tea and fudge. Plants and fresh and dried flowers are also offered. Craft items include ceramics, photography, kitchen accessories, jewelry, garden art, knitwear, soaps and lotions and hand-spun yarns and clothing. The Art of Gardening Event is Saturday and Sunday, April 27 and 28. The Holiday Farmers Market at the Port of Anacortes Transit Shed is Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 23 and 24. Summer hours are 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturdays from mid-May through October and 4 - 7 p.m. Wednesdays, mid-June through August. Indoor winter hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. second Saturdays, January through April. The Depot PLAZA 7th Street and R Avenue 360.293.7922 anacortesfarmersmarket.org anacortesvisitor.com

Come and experience for yourself the only Zip Line Tour in the San Juan Islands. Our family friendly zip tour features 8 zip lines that will take you through a beautiful forest, across a pristine lake and over protected wetlands. This tour is an amazing way to experience the natural landscape of San Juan Island while zipping from platform to platform through the forest canopy.

360.378.5947

www.zipsanjuan.com 2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Waterfront Walks

Places to Picnic

» Ship Harbor trail. Short, wide and flat with views of Ship Harbor, the Guemes Channel and the Washington State Ferries terminal. Viewing platforms and easy beach access. Go to the San Juan Passage development and curl down to the water via Edwards Way. Head west on the gravel path. You can also go east on the pavement and enjoy the first leg of the Guemes Channel Trail.

» Seafarers’ Memorial Park on the south side of the Cap

» Tommy Thompson Parkway. Great for walking or

» Rotary Park on the far side of the Cap Sante Marina.

biking. Runs along Fidalgo Bay south of downtown and continues across a trestle. Access it at 11th Street, 22nd Street, 34th Street or the RV park at Fidalgo Bay Resort.

Sante Marina. Lots of grass, a nice beach and great views of boat traffic on Fidalgo Bay.

» Causland Memorial Park a few blocks west of town on Seventh Street. Lovely spot that’s on the National Register of Historic Places.

A short stroll from the northeast corner of the marina takes you to a gazebo and picnic tables with hillside views of the marina and Fidalgo Bay. You can pick your way down to the beach and dine amidst the driftwood as well.

(Continued from pg. 11) the park can be walked or driven. » Cap Sante Park, 1000 W Ave., is a 37acre forested area at the top of Cap Sante on the northeast corner of the island. The park offers views of Fidalgo Bay, March Point and the rest of Fidalgo Island.

» Kiwanis Waterfront Park, 1708 Sixth Organizations St., is a 2-acre park overlooking the Guemes Channel and the Guemes Island ferry landing. Friends of the Forest 619 Commercial Avenue, Suite 32 » Rotary Park, 701 T Ave., is a 1.5-acre 360. 293.3725 park running along the shoreline of a Fidalgo friendsoftheacfl.org Bay inlet north of the Cap Sante Marina. The Hours: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday. park has walking trails and a gazebo.

Old Anacortes Rowing & Sail» Shugarts Playground, 10th St. and N ing Society » Tommy Thompson Parkway has trail Ave. next to the Anacortes Public Library, 2821 Commercial Avenue heads at 22nd St. and R Ave., Fidalgo Bay RV has a small playground area with picnic tables. 360.299.3787 oarss.org Park, and 30th St. and U Ave.. The paved path » Clearridge Park, 1900 block of Blakely » Meets Fridays at 7:30 a.m. at San Juan for pedestrians and bicyclists runs along the west side of Fidalgo Bay, leading to a walk- Dr. next to the Anacortes Airport, is nearly Lanes Bar and Grill. way over the bay on a former train trestle 1 acre with two tennis courts and a basketball court. Puget Sound Anglers that connects to March Point. » Volunteer Park, 1915 13th St., is the city’s sports center with a fastpitch/Little League field, two regulation baseball fields, Kiwanis Meadows soccer field, basketball court and Doug Colglazier Playground. The park also has walking paths. » Storvik Park, 1110 32nd St., is home to the community-built Our Town Our Park playground. The nearly 9-acre park has a Little League field, two basketball courts, picnic tables and barbecues. » Causland Memorial Park, 710 N Ave., is a 2-acre park dedicated to Anacortes veterans and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The park has decorative rock and black and white mosaic walls and structures, including a bandstand, amphitheater and terraces. » Ace of Hearts Rotary Park, 38th St. and H Ave., has a Little League field and fenced off-leash dog area complete with watering station, wash-off hose and a special area for smaller dogs. » John and Doris Tursi Park, 2200 Pennsylvania Ave., is a small neighborhood park just east of the Anacortes Airport. The park has a playground, picnic tables, nature trail overseeing wetlands and a pavilion made of raw cedar logs. » The Ben Root Skate Park, 2313 R Ave., has a 7,500-square-foot concrete skate area with lights, seating and nearby restrooms. anacortesvisitor.com

» 29th Street Playground, 29th St. and Q Ave., is a half acre park with playground equipment. » N Ave. Park, Second St. and N Ave., is close to a half acre park with views of the Guemes Channel.

Fidalgo Chapter 807 Commercial Avenue psafidalgo.org » Meets third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Village Pizza.

ANACORTES INN

• New Look • Deluxe Continental Breakfast • 44 Units • Seasonal Heated Pool • Air Conditioning

• Wireless Internet • Microwaves & Refrigerators • Coffee Maker in All Rooms • Convenient to Downtown, Restaurants & Marinas • Open 24 Hours a Day

www.anacortesinn.com 3006 Commercial Avenue Anacortes, WA 98221 2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

1-800-327-7976 (360) 293-3153 15

Viewpoints

Choosing the best viewpoint in Anacortes isn’t easy, with so many remarkable vistas easily accessible. In fact, just driving around town you’ll be treated to gorgeous sunrises and sunsets and plenty of saltwater scenery. Here are some of our favorite spots.

CAP SANTE

with picnic tables at Green Point. At Fidalgo Head, there is a landmark madrona tree and beautiful views of Skyline, Mount Erie and Burrows Island.

DECEPTION PASS STATE PARK There are scenic spots inside the park at Pass Lake, Rosario Beach and Bowman Bay. But the iconic photo spots are at the pullouts on Highway 20 just before and at the two Deception Pass bridges. The 20-minute drive to the bridge along the west side of Fidalgo Island is scenic in its own right.

Cap Sante, just a few minutes from downtown, provides the most scenic overview of the city itself. To get there from downtown, take Fourth Street east to the top, turn right and follow the road up to the park. There you will be treated to a view of the city and the San Juans to the west, refineries and bays to the south and a stunning view of Mount MOUNT ERIE Baker to the east — plus boat traffic, everything from sailArguably the best viewpoint on the island is atop Mount boats to tankers, much of the time. Erie. The lookout is about 20 minutes from downtown in the center of the island. To get there, take H Avenue south and continue as it SUNSET BEACH This sprawling expanse of beach and grass is in Wash- turns into Heart Lake Road. Past the lake, turn left into the ington Park at the west end of Fidalgo Island. It’s about park. A steep drive or long hike rises about 1,000 feet to 15 minutes from downtown — and a great picnic spot. The a park donated to the city of Anacortes by the Anacortes views are north and west to the San Juan Islands and the Noon Kiwanis Club. Several pullouts near the top provide access to views in Washington State Ferries that glide by. To get there, take 12th Street and follow it west as its different directions, with a panoramic outlook that stretchname changes to Oakes Avenue, then Sunset Avenue. Fol- es from the North Cascades to Mount Rainier and back low it until it ends in the park. The beach is down to the around to the Olympics. Hikers can get views to the north. The best viewpoint is just beyond the access to the huge right, below the playground. Washington Park’s Loop Road also offers great views. cell tower at the top. The first section offers views to the West, with a nice area

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

South Fidalgo Island

ÂŠ Skagit Publishing, LLC Map produced by Fine Edge, Anacortes, WA

anacortesvisitor.com

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Events

Art enthusiasts, wine and beer lovers and leather-clad bikers can all find major Anacortes events that will tickle their fancy. So will bargain hunters, dog lovers and antique engine buffs.

APRIL

Spring Wine Festival Apr. 13 At the Port of Anacortes Transit Shed Event Center with tastes from dozens of Washington wineries.

anacortes.org

MAY

TrawlerFest May 14-19 A celebration of the cruising-under-power lifestyle at Cap Sante Marina.

trawlerfest.com

JUNE

Anacortes Waterfront Festival June 1-2 At Cap Sante Marina, includes free boat rides, music, radio-controlled boats, kids activities, a marine swap meet, booths and food.

anacortes.org

St. MerryFest June 7-9 Carnival rides, food and entertainment at St. Mary Catholic Church, 4001 St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dr.

Bark in the Park June 15 A dog festival at Storvik Park, includes demonstrations, contests and booths.

JULY

Old-fashioned July 4th July 4 A celebration, town photo, patriotic parade and picnic â&#x20AC;&#x201D; complete with food and kids activities. Fireworks display over Fidalgo Bay.

Kids-R-Best Fest

Oyster Run

July 13

Sept. 22

A free event with inflatable toys, games, The largest motorcycle rally in the Pacific food, entertainment and more at Storvik Northwest. Thousand of bikers rumble through the county, eating oysters along the Park, between 29th and 32nd streets. way, and arrive in Anacortes for more oysters, food and fun.

Shipwreck Festival July 20

Shipwreck Day Flea Market fills several blocks downtown with booths filled with plunder.

shipwreckfest.org

oysterrun.org

OCTOBER

Oktoberfest Bier on the Pier Festival

AUGUST

Anacortes Arts Festival Aug. 2-4

Appliance repair in your home by factory trained appliance technicians.

Oct. 4-5 Features samples from 30 Northwest breweries and German fare at Pier I, First Street and Commercial Avenue.

The city’s biggest annual event and one of the largest arts festivals in the Northwest. anacortes.org Features 250 juried booth artisans, a fine art show, two stages of free music and youth activities. Experience Art Area features artists demonstrating sculpture, weaving, paint- Wonderland Walk ing and more. Dec. 13-14 Features twinkling lights and decorations at anacortesartsfestival.com Washington Park campsites decorated by community groups.A holiday stroll for all ages.

DECEMBER

Workboat Races and Pirate Faire

Pat, Vikki, Quinn, Dave & Derek

cityofanacortes.org/parks.asp

Aug. 24 Celebrates the working waterfront with workboat races, clam chowder contest, pirate contests and more on the Guemes Channel.

SEPTEMBER

Antique Engine and Machinery Day Sept. 14 Brings about 2,000 visitors to check out tractors, trucks, engines, saws and steamboats.

and more!

An enticing selection of common and uncommon plants

HOMETOWN SERVICE, WAREHOUSE PRICES. We service most major brands!

Vintage Home & Garden Gifts www.christiansonsnursery.com 15806 Best Road • Mount Vernon • 360-466-3821

anacortesvisitor.com

Open Daily

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

1820 Commercial Ave. Anacortes, WA. 98221

360-293-5129

Anacortes Map

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

ÂŠ Skagit Publishing, LLC Map produced by Fine Edge, Anacortes, WA

anacortesvisitor.com

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Museums & Tours Anacortes Museum Once a Carnegie Library, the Anacortes Museum offers permanent exhibits on the history of Fidalgo and Guemes islands as well as revolving displays. Ending this year in the Carnegie Gallery is “Young Man in a Hurry: The Life of Isaac Stevens and the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War.” As Washington Territory’s first Territorial Governor and Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Stevens pushed through treaties with Indian tribes that set off the region’s Indian Wars and still create controversy today. Planned next is “We’re Still Here,” a look at Native Americans in Washington that will be supplemented with local information and displays. The museum is open daily except Mondays; admission is free. A research library with in-depth resources is open weekdays except Mondays. Appointments are preferred. 1305 Eighth Street 360.293.1915 museum.cityofanacortes.org

W.T. Preston Snagboat The Preston is a historic sternwheeler and a retired U.S. Army Corps of Engineers vessel that once cleared debris from Puget Sound waterways. The Anacortes Museum restored the craft, now permanently displayed ashore. Admission is $1-$3. The snagboat and nearby Maritime Heritage Center are open weekends in April, May, September and October; and daily except Mondays in June, July and August.

Cap Sante Marina Esplanade

713 R Avenue 360.293.1916 museum.cityofanacortes.org

Behind the snagboat, this attractive waterfront walk offers a glimpse of Fidalgo Bay’s history in a series of interpretive displays. Stop by the marina office if you have questions.

Maritime Heritage Center The Maritime Heritage Center, formerly the Snagboat Interpretive Center, now has a greater focus on the history of the community’s fishing, boat-building and marine transportation industries. This year see a show on the America’s Cup-winning BMW Oracle yacht that was built and tested in Anacortes. Open weekends in April, May, September and October; and daily except Mondays in June, July and August. 703 R Avenue 360.299.1984 museum.cityofanacortes.org

The Anacortes Mural Project Downtown, it’s impossible to turn a corner without encountering a cast of historic characters from the unique Anacortes Mural Project, a longtime effort by artist Bill Mitchell, a colorful character in his own right. A list of murals is available at the Anacortes Visitors Center.

Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Anacortes The Anacortes Historic Preservation Board has charted a leisurely stroll past historic buildings and places that enhances appreciation of the sites. Don’t miss Marine Supply & Hardware at the bottom of Commercial Avenue. Old Town is full of historic homes such as the J.A. Matheson House on Fifth Street. Brochures are available at the Visitors Center, City Hall and at museum.cityofanacortes.org/AHPB/documents/WalkTourBrochure.pdf.

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

Murals For Information Call: (360) 293-1915 or Check our Website:

museum.cityofanacortes.org Anacortes Museum 1305 8th Street • Anacortes, WA

Exploring the history of Fidalgo and Guemes Islands through: • Educational Programs • Exhibits • Research Library • Special Events

The exterior walls of Anacortes, especially downtown, are the canvas for Bill Mitchell, well-known artist, historian and generally quirky character. Passers-by are occasionally startled and often charmed to encounter his nostalgic and distinctive life-sized murals of local characters. Mitchell’s subjects, more than 120 of them, come from all walks of life: fishermen, mayors, dancers, storekeepers, bar patrons, children, pets, musicians, boaters, church leaders and editors. One mural is a self-portrait of the muttonchopped artist, seated in his trademark three-wheeled 1954 Autoette, which doubles as a wheelchair. Cheerfully eccentric and frequently cantankerous, Mitchell attacks his art and historical preservation projects with a missionary zeal. The first mural, of Fred White and his Safety Bike, went up in front of Marine Supply & Hardware on May 2, 1984, two years before the Vancouver Expo. Mitchell decided murals would be a good draw for visitors and followed the fair’s theme, transportation, so many of his murals feature trains, boats, cars, carts, trucks and wagons. They have proven wildly popular, collecting just enough snubs from art critics to keep them controversial. Tourists are frequently seen posing for photos with the murals, and pranksters occasionally embellish them with mustaches or hats — stunts Mitchell minds only if adhesives damage the mural’s finish. A list of Mitchell’s murals and locations is available at the Anacortes Visitors Center at Commercial Avenue and Ninth Street. anacortesvisitor.com

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

The Carnegie Gallery 8th Street & M Avenue Gallery Open Year-Round Tues. - Sat., 10-4 Sunday 1-4, Closed Monday

The W.T. PresTon & Maritime Heritage Center 9th Street & R Avenue Open weekends: April - October Open Daily: June, July, August Closed Monday

Tribes

Samish Canoe Family occasionally hosts large Coast Salish canoe journeys, usually at the resort, where they greet visiting paddlers with drums, prayers, songs and a feast. On special occasions, Samish blessing ceremonies honor such things as a new story pole, the naming of a baby orca or the christening of a new canoe. These moving and inspiring events are always followed by the hospitality of a potlatch. The tribe was honored recently when the state transportation commission decided, appropriately, to name one of its new Washington State Ferries the Samish — a word of proto-Salish origins that describes the “giving people.” So true then and now. » Find more information at: samishtribe.nsn.us

SWINOMISH INDIAN TRIBAL COMMUNITY

The Samish and Swinomish tribes have important roles on Fidalgo Island, and they make noteworthy economic, cultural and environmental contributions to the community today. Their long history here is inspiring and educational to those who have followed.

SAMISH INDIAN NATION The Samish Indian Nation once stretched over a sevencounty region of Northwest Washington. The tribe had more than 2,000 members in 1847, but raids from northern tribes and epidemics of European diseases wiped out more than 90 percent of its people by 1855. Despite this, 113 Samish were present at the signing of the Point Elliott Treaty. Samish status as a federally recognized tribe was lost through a clerical error in 1969 when it was left off a Bureau of Indian Affairs list. The tribe regained recognition in 1996 and since then has played a growing role in Anacortes. It operates the Samish Longhouse Preschool, the Samish Gallery of Native Arts downtown, the Fidalgo Bay RV Resort, a new Health Services building and a beautiful administrative building with carved cedar posts. Today, tribal enrollment stands at about 1,500. The

The 900-member Swinomish tribe’s headquarters are in the historic Swinomish Village across Swinomish Channel from La Conner. What people might be more familiar with, though, is the Swinomish Casino & Lodge on Highway 20 east of Anacortes. A major expansion completed recently added 98 rooms and the new 13moons Restaurant. The sweeping views from the lodge take in land where the Coast Salish people have lived for thousands of years. Their culture centered around abundant saltwater resources, particularly salmon and shellfish, which remain a key part of tribal economy today. The aboriginal Swinomish tongue was Lushootseed, a variant of the wider Salish language, and the tribe now offers language and culture classes for all ages at the Swinomish Social Services Building. Traditions also are upheld and passed on to future generations through such events as the annual Tribal Canoe Journey and the Blessing of the Fleet and First Salmon Ceremony. In 2010, the Swinomish entered a partnership with Washington State Parks that resulted in pristine Kiket Island becoming a protected site, now known as the Kukutali Preserve, within Deception Pass State Park. In addition to the casino, which began as a small bingo operation in 1985, the tribe operates the Swinomish Chevron Gas Station, which includes a tobacco, liquor and convenience store; the Swinomish Fish Company, which processes salmon and shellfish for a global market that includes the United Kingdom and the European Union; and a Ramada Hotel in Ocean Shores on the Washington coast. The tribe has become one of the five largest employers in Skagit County with more than 250 employees in tribal government and approximately 300 employees in its casino and other economic enterprises. The tribe operates a fisheries department, a fish processing plant, a water resources program, an environmental education program, social services, a fitness center, senior services, a housing authority, a work training program and many other services. » Find more information at: swinomish.org

Arts

Anacortes is home to numerous galleries, musical events, community theater productions, quilt activities, arts clubs and ongoing art classes. The vibrant arts community draws inspiration from Fidalgo Island’s striking landscape and channels its expressions of that beauty in diverse genres. The three-day Anacortes Arts Festival, which draws about 90,000 visitors each year, is the apex of the arts in Anacortes. You’ll see public art any time you come to Anacortes. Visit anacortesartscommission.com to see permanent pieces and what’s new. Anacortes Arts Festival

Quilt Walk and Quilt Show

This arts extravaganza fills Commercial Avenue from the waterfront to 10th Street Aug. 2-4. Highlights include 250 artisan booths, working artists, live music, food, beer and wine gardens, entertainment, children’s activities and a juried fine art show. Pre-events include an Art Dash and the Arts at the Port opening celebration.

Showcases the stunning fabric art of the Fidalgo Island Quilters. Quilts are displayed throughout April at many shops and businesses participating in the walk. The Quilt Walk is every year. The Quilt Show is every other year. The next one will be in 2014.

» fidalgoislandquilters.com

» anacortesartsfestival.com

Brewgrass!

Arts on the Avenue

Exhibit features more than a dozen sculptures along Commercial Several pubs and restaurants host performances of blues and blue- and Q avenues. Maps are at each sculpture and at the Chamber of grass, while microbrewers bring kegs of more than 50 small-batch Commerce Visitors Center. beers to town for tasting. Brewgrass is typically the second weekend in November. Heart of Anacortes

Cap Sante Marina Summer Concert Series

This outdoor venue in the “heart” of downtown hosts concerts and other community events in the summer months.

Enjoy free and family friendly rock and blues concerts Friday nights Jazz at the Library in July and August at Seafarers’ Memorial Park at Cap Sante Marina. The Anacortes Public Library features the Manieri Jazz & Swing collection, specially chosen books, CDs and DVDs on the uniquely » portofanacortes.com American art of jazz and swing music. The library sponsors local jazz events, including free concerts at 2p.m. at the library on the First Friday Gallery Walks second Sunday of each month. Folks are invited first Fridays 6-9 p.m. to tour through six or more art galleries.The roster varies, but frequent participants include Scott » jazzatthelibrary.com Milo Gallery, Anne Martin McCool Gallery, Anchor Art Space, Samish Gallery of Native Arts, The Depot and Fidalgo Island Fiber Art. anacortesvisitor.com

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Organizations Anacortes Arts Commission An advisory board to the city pertaining to public arts and culture.

» anacortesartscommission.com The An-O-Chords Men’s Barbershop Chorus

Anacortes Community Theatre

Meets Thursday evenings for open rehearsals at Island View Elementary School, 2601 J Ave.

» anochords.org

In its 49th year of delighting audiences, ACT will feature the following productions in its 2013 season: “Steel Magnolias,” “Legally Blonde,” “Woman in Black,” “The Importance of Fidalgo DanceWorks Being Earnest,” “Little Shop of Horrors” and “Mama Won’t Fly.” Education in the art of dance for all levels » acttheatre.com and abilities.

» fidalgodanceworks.org

Kenneth Killpack DDS Russell Borneman DDS 1218 29th St Suite A Anacortes, WA 98221 360.293.8451 Mercury Free Since ‘83

DON’T GET YOUR MERCURY “SILVER” FILLINGS REMOVED!

» fidalgoislandquilters.com

Unless your dentist practices the safe mercury removal protocols recommended by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. Find a safe mercury free dentist at www.IAOMT.org today!

Fidalgo Island Quilters Meets first and third Mondays at New Hope Community Church.

Fidalgo Youth Symphony » fysmusic.org Anacortes Harmonaires A four-part women’s barbershop-style harmony chorus.

» 360.293.6525 2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

Art’s Alive Here » That woman gazing over town

from the south side of the Wilson Hotel at Eighth Street is Anne Curtis Bowman, the wife of founding father Amos Bowman. Swedish artist Lisa Liedgren’s mural went up in 2007 as part of the redevelopment project at the historic hotel.

» Walkers on the Tommy Thompson

Parkway encounter several colorful murals at 30th Street that were funded by proceeds from the annual Art Dash. Farther south on the trail is “Ska-atl,” an otter in stone created by Tracy Powell.

» In 1915, with 11 salmon canneries

operating here, Anacortes proudly called itself the salmon-packing capital of Puget Sound. Today, images of some of the early labels have turned downtown trash cans into street art.

» You will notice a striking bronze

orca fin that juts above the waterfront at the heart of the Cap Sante Marina. The sculpture “Annie Curtis” was crafted by prominent artist Gerard Tsutakawa. Other popular public pieces include “Windsong,” a Leo Osborne bronze at Kiwanis Park near the Guemes Ferry Terminal, and “The Bird Family,” a Philip McCracken bronze at the post office located downtown.

anacortesvisitor.com

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Anacortes Today

Anacortes is a highly livable waterfront city with solid infrastructure and a wide range of health and social services. Over the years, residents and public servants have worked hard to create a community that supports industry, while also guarding the island’s peerless natural resources. The quality of life has been a magnet, particularly for the well-educated retirees who form a large percentage of the population. DEMOGRAPHICS and CITY FACTS Population: 15,941 in 2011 (estimated) Persons under 5: 5.4 percent Persons under 18: 19.6 percent Persons 65 and older: 22.9 percent (Source: U.S. Census Bureau)

GOVERNMENT INFORMATION City of Anacortes

Deli & Catering Home of the Fidalgo Cookie!

Feeding Anacortes Since 1981

here algic atmosp Original, nost Great service Great food, cals! Just ask the lo

PUBLIC SAFETY

Monday-Saturday 7am-4pm 502 Commercial Ave • Anacortes

360.293.7383

www.Gere-a-Deli.com 28

904 Sixth Street Anacortes, WA 98221 360.293.1900 cityofanacortes.org » Anacortes has a strong mayor-city council system of government. The City Council meets in regular sessions on first and third Mondays, and in study sessions on second and fourth Mondays. The council sets policy, determines building codes and enacts ordinances. Mayor Dean Maxwell, now in his fifth term, is the city’s chief executive. He presides over council meetings and makes sure public policy is enforced. He also manages the city, doubling as city manager, and runs the city’s regional water utility.

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Anacortes Police Department 1218 24th Street 360.293.4684 Emergencies: 911 cityofanacortes.org/police.asp » The department provides 24/7 patrol and emergency response service. The office is staffed 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Frianacortesvisitor.com

day. There are currently 28 employees, 22 of 410 includes stops at the Guemes Ferry terminal, the Washington State Ferries terthem commissioned officers. minal and March Point. Route 49 runs from 10th Street and Q Avenue downtown to IsAnimal Control land Hospital. SKAT runs buses throughout Call 911 Skagit County and offers connector service to Bellingham, Everett and Whidbey Island. Auxiliary Patrol The main transfer location for most Skagit cityofanacortes.org/police.asp Transit routes is in downtown Mount Ver(click Citizen's Auxiliary Patrol) non. There is a park and ride lot east of Anacortes at March Point. Skagit Transit also Anacortes Fire Department offers Dial-A-Ride service for people whose 1016 13th Street disabilities and conditions prevent them 360.293.1925 from traveling on fixed routes. Emergencies: 911 cityofanacortes.org/fire.htm » The Fire Department office in the main station is open 8 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m. weekdays except holidays. The department staffs two other stations: 5209 Sunset Drive near the ferry terminal, staffed 24 hours, and 9029 Molly Lane, staffed 12 hours, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.. Emergency response is provided by two EMTs and 18 firefighter/paramedics.

NEW RESIDENT PHONE NUMBERS Water and Solid Waste City of Anacortes 360.293.1921

Washington State Ferries 888.808.7977 wsdot.wa.gov/ferries » Washington State Ferries provides passenger and car service from its Anacortes terminal to Orcas Island, Lopez Island, Shaw Island, Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, and Sidney, British Columbia, Canada. The terminal is located at the end of Highway 20, about four miles west of downtown Anacortes. Citizens of the United States and Canada need to have either a passport or an enhanced driver’s license to enter or depart the United States by sea.

Guemes Island Ferry 360.336.9400 skagitcounty.net » Skagit County provides ferry service for passengers and vehicles from Anacortes across the Guemes Channel to Guemes Island. The dock is located at Sixth Street and I Avenue. The crossing takes five minutes.

Anacortes Airport 4000 Airport Road 360.299.1828 » The Port of Anacortes operates the airport on Airport Road in northwest Fidalgo Island. The airport hosts corporate and private aircraft and offers space for business tenants. San Juan Airlines operates several flights a day to the San Juan Islands, Bellingham and other destinations. Charters and scenic flights also are available. For information and reservations, call San Juan Airlines at 800.874.4434. Other services at the airport include fuel, hangars, tie downs, aircraft service, flight instruction and maintenance and modification.

INDUSTRY Major industries include two large refineries on March Point, several boat building

Recycling Rabanco 800.942.5965

Gas Cascade Natural Gas 888.522.1130

Electricity Puget Sound Energy 888.225.5773

Voter Registration Skagit County 360.336.9305

Anacortes Chamber of Commerce 819 Commercial Avenue, suite F 360.293.7911 anacortes.org

TRANSPORTATION

• 24 Hour service with warm and friendly staﬀ • Fresh hot baked cookies every night • Expanded Continental Breakfast • Group and Corporate Rates • Free Wireless Internet • Non-Smoking Facility

Skagit Transit 105 E. Kincaid Street 360.757.4433 skagittransit.org » Skagit Transit provides bus service in Anacortes Monday through Saturday. Route anacortesvisitor.com

3300 Commercial Ave Anacortes, Washington 98221 Phone/Fax: 360-293-1100 themarinainn@comcast.net www.marinainnwa.com 2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Did You Know? » The Anacortes Sister Cities

Association maintains strong ties with four sister cities: Lomonosov, Russia; Nikaho, Japan; Sidney, British Columbia; and Vela Luka, Croatia. You see the flags when you arrive by Highway 20 or Washington State Ferries. Travel and cultural exchanges are common. Find more information at:anacortessistercities.com.

» Anacortes supplies water beyond

the city limits to the March Point refineries, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, La Conner and Shelter Bay.

» Anacortes has been served

“

continuously by its newspaper, the Anacortes American, for 123 years.

in Anacortes! ” n u F o st M “ and ” lue a tV capsanteinn.com

• 15 Restaurants Within 5 Blocks • 10 Minutes to Ferry Terminal • Walk to Antique Stores & Galleries • Oversized Deluxe Rooms With New Beds, Carpet & Paint • Hair Dryers, Refrigerators & Microwaves • HD Flat Screens

906 9th St. • Anacortes

360-293-0602

Call Toll Free:

800-852-0846

Located in Historic Old Town Across From The Marina 30

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

» The Port of Anacortes’ main

warehouse at the marine terminal on the Guemes Channel has come a long way from storing salmon in its early days. Today the newly dubbed Transit Shed Event Center at the north end of Commercial Avenue is a go-to venue in town for wine and beer festivals , weddings, dances, concerts and fundraising galas.

» Seafarers’ Memorial Park just

south of the Cap Sante Marina was revitalized recently through a two-year, $34 million environmental cleanup and restoration wproject. The property was once occupied by the Scott Paper Mill.

» Anacortes has a widely success-

ful Senior College offering low-cost classes to those 50 and older in afternoon and evening sessions. Almost 250 people took classes last fall. No tests! anacortesvisitor.com

and repair businesses and two seafood processing plants. Shell Puget Sound Refinery and the Anacortes Tesoro Refinery employ close to 800 people from maintenance workers to engineers. Both plants, which were constructed and opened in the 1950s, convert crude petroleum into fuels. One of the largest boat building and repair businesses in Anacortes leases waterfront land at the Port of Anacortes’ marine terminal. Dakota Creek Industries, established in 1975, employs close to 200 workers. The company was recently awarded a $145 million contract to build two Navy research ships. Additional marine businesses in the city include North Harbor Diesel, San Juan Yachts, Cap Sante Marine, Cortland Puget Sound Rope, Northern Marine and Northwest Yachts. Cortland Puget Sound Rope develops and produces ropes that are engineered for difficult applications and harsh environments, often offshore, in a 70,000-squarefoot facility at the port. The two major seafood processing businesses are Trident Seafoods and Sugiyo USA Inc. Together they employ about 300 workers. Trident opened in 1973 and is part of a corporation that harvests, processes and markets seafood. Sugiyo introduced surimibased seafood products to Americans. Surimi is fish paste that with snow crab meat and other ingredients is turned into imitation crab. Anacortes is also home to SeaBear, a company that ships a full line of seafood to customers in all 50 states and has a store in the city. The company recently completed an expansion, adding more than 12,500 square feet, including freezers, chemical storage, smokers, thawers and refrigerators. It consolidated SeaBear’s Gerard Dominique Seafoods and Made in Washington store brands into one location for processing and packaging.

from five individual districts, who serve four- Television/Public Access year terms. Channel 10, Anacortes » City’s government access channel broadcasting City Council meetings, public notices, MEDIAN HOME PRICE community events and related programming. Skagit County — $264,250

Anacortes — $379,000 (Source: Northwest Multiple Listing Service, year-to-date December 2012)

MEDIA Radio Stations KWLE 1340, Anacortes Adult contemporary, local news and sports. 1340thewhale.com

Newspapers Anacortes American, weekly 901 Sixth Street, Anacortes 360.293.3122 goanacortes.com Skagit Valley Herald, daily 1215 Anderson Road, Mount Vernon 360.424.3251 goskagit.com

LIBRARY Anacortes Public Library 1220 10th Street 360.293.1910 library.cityofanacortes.org » The Anacortes Public Library offers much more than books — it is also a thriving community center, a showcase for art, a computer lab and a venue for films, music, lectures and events. The library was a vital public institution even before it officially opened in March 1911. The 1910 Carnegie Library building served Anacortes readers and researchers more than 50 years, until the library moved into the old hospital building at Ninth Street and M Avenue in 1968. That facility served the community 35 years. In 1999 a group of citizens began working to replace the cramped old building. The community passed a bond in 2000 and the spacious new $6.9 million facility opened in January 2003. Since then, the community has lavished the facility with resources, such as

THE PORT OF ANACORTES 360.293.3134 portofanacortes.com The Port of Anacortes operates the 950slip Cap Sante Marina, Anacortes Airport and a 30-acre marine terminal. Major tenants include Dakota Creek Industries, Puget Sound Rope, Northwest Marine Technology, Micro Aerodynamics and Transpac Marinas. There are five commissioners, elected anacortesvisitor.com

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

artwork, a bequest from the Manieri family for a jazz collection and an anonymous gift for a maritime collection.Volunteers also help with library tasks, raise money, put on programs and sell books in the FriendShop. » Friends of the Library: Meets 2:30 p.m. second Thursdays in the library. Call Beverly Reed at 360.293.4149. » Anacortes Public Library Foundation: call Cynthia Harrison at 360.293.1910 ext. 23.

MOVIES

grocery stores, several drug stores, two large hardware stores, a lumberyard and a furniture store. Two auto dealerships are in the commercial area along Highway 20 at the eastern edge of town. The nearest shopping mall is Cascade Mall in Burlington, which is about a 30-minute drive.

SOCIAL SERVICES The Islands Chapter Of The American Red Cross

(Three screens) 415 O Avenue 360.293.7000 farawayentertainment.com/anacortes

2900 T Avenue 360.293.2911 theislandsredcross.org » The chapter has been chartered since 1918, offering disaster assistance, disaster preparedness and health and safety classes.

SHOPPING/RETAIL

The Salvation Army

Anacortes Cinemas

Most of Anacortes’ stores are along Commercial Avenue, from just past the roundabout at the entrance to town to near the Guemes Channel. The arch at 10th Street welcomes you to Historic Downtown Anacortes, which is filled with locally owned shops, art galleries and restaurants. Anacortes has a wide range of service and retail businesses, including two major

Anacortes Family Center 1011 27th Street 360.293.2993 anacortesfamily.org » The emergency shelter provides nine temporary housing units for homeless families. During a limited stay, residents receive support from a case managewr as they build the skills they need to transition out of homelessness.

Gentry House Adult Day Care 1208 Seventh Street 360.293.4466 skagitadultdaycare.org » Gentry House offers a safe, nurturing and fun place where people with Alzheimer’s disease and similar conditions can stay for a few hours while their family members get a needed respite from the demands of caregiving.

3001 R Avenue 360.293.6682 » Assists people with food boxes from its HEALTH CARE food bank, rental assistance, energy assistance Island Hospital and gas for transport in a medical emergency. 1211 24th Street 360.299.1300 islandhospital.org Anacortes 100 Food Bank » Publicly owned Island Hospital takes pride 512 Fourth Street in offering big-hospital services at its small 360.293.6445 acute-care facility. With 43 beds, it is the smallest hospital in Washington with Level III Trauma care accreditation. The Emergency Department’s entrance on 26th Street is best reached from Commercial Avenue. A certified ER physician and trained emergency nurses are on duty 24 hours a day. Also known as Skagit County Public Hospital District No. 2, Island Hospital serves western Skagit County, north Whidbey Island and the San Juan Islands. The main hospital campus and a family care clinic are in Anacortes, and a clinic is on Lopez Island. Medical staff includes more than 100 physicians and other providers. Since it was built in 1962, Island Hospital has grown with the community. A major renovation and expansion project was completed recently, largely funded by a $30.5 million voter-approved bond. A new Medical Arts Pavilion housing cancer care, wound care and physical therapy services opened recently. The hospital’s spectrum of services includes inpatient and outpatient surgery, a Birth Center, home health care, acute and critical care, respiratory care, lab services and rehabilitation services. Diagnostic imaging includes MRI and CAT scanning, Dual Energy X-ray, mammography and nuclear medicine. 2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

Other Services: » Island Health Resource Center, 1211 24th St., 360.299.1397, offers support and education such as free SHIBA insurance counseling, support groups, health classes and free/ low-cost screenings. » The Cancer Care Center, in the upper level of the Medical Arts Pavilion, 1015 25th St., 360.299.4200, is accredited by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. Physicians and nurses have specialized cancer care training and certification. The center offers chemotherapy, medication administration and blood product transfusion. » Island Hospital Sleep Wellness Center, 1110 22nd St., 360.299.8676, has a boardcertified sleep disorders physician to help patients get to sleep. » Island Hospital Foundation 360.299.4201 islandhospitalfoundation.org » Island Hospital Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy, in the Medical Arts Pavilion, 1015 25th St., 360.293.1328, is a comprehensive center helping patients manage pain, restore function and prevent further injury. » Island Hospital Auxiliary: Meets 12:30 p.m. for coffee social followed by regular meeting at 1 p.m. first Mondays October through June in the hospital’s Fidalgo/Burrows rooms.

SENIOR CENTER Anacortes Senior Activity Center 1701 22nd Street 360.293.7473 skagitseniors.org » The center offers a variety of activities for the senior population, including exercise classes, group games like pool and bridge, art lessons, information sessions and wellness activities. It also serves lunch on weekdays. Suggested donation for seniors is $3.505.50; lunch charge for everyone else is $6.

EDUCATION & SCHOOLS Anacortes School District 2200 M Avenue (upstairs) 360.293.1200 asd103.org » The Anacortes School District has an early childhood education center (for birth to kindergarten), three elementary schools, anacortesvisitor.com

CAP SANTE COURT RETIREMENT 360-293-8088

1111 32nd Street • Anacortes www.CapSanteCourt.com

LOGAN CREEK RETIREMENT 360-428-0222

2311 E. Division • Mount Vernon www.LoganCreek.com

STUDIO, ONE & TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS • DELICIOUS MEALS • TRANSPORTATION • HOUSEKEEPING • ACTIVITIES

BEAUTY COMFORT CONVENIENCE

The Finest in Full Service Retirement Living 2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

a middle school and a high school. It offers an alternative program at Cap Sante High School and a community college partnership through Running Start. The district is also home to the regional Deaf and Hard of Hearing program for kids from preschool through high school. The district’s enrollment is around 2,600 students and its budget is about $27 million. The district is overseen by an elected five-member board. Unlike many other districts that place students in schools based on where they live, the Anacortes School District has open enrollment. Families can request which school they want their child to attend. Test scores are consistently above the state’s average. The district was awarded a rating of 7 (on a scale of 1-10) by Great Schools, a nonprofit group working to improve K-12 education by inspiring parents to get involved. It rates schools based on state standardized test scores as compared to comparable districts throughout the state and against state average scores. Cap Sante High School is an alternative program offering different options for students in grades 9-12 who “have not found success in a traditional school setting,” the

program’s brochure states. Running Start is a partnership between Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon and area high schools. It allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to take college level courses tuition-free. Students get high school and college credit for completed classes.

Whitney Early Childhood Education Center 1200 M Avenue 360.293.9536

Anacortes High School 1600 20th Street 360.293.2166

Cap Sante High School (alternative, grades 9-12) 1717 J Avenue 360.293.1225

Northwest Career and Technical Academy

1313 41st Street 360.293.9541

nwtech.k12.wa.us » The Northwest Career and Technical Academy offers a satellite campus in Anacortes that focuses on marine skills technology. It is a partnership between Skagit Valley College and county high schools. The center is a place where students can gain marine skills, enter the work force and have living-wage jobs. The facility includes four primary labs with adjoining teacher offices and physical and visual connections to a central project area that links to a covered outside work area.

Anacortes Middle School

HIGHER EDUCATION

2202 M Avenue 360.293.1230

Skagit Valley College

Fidalgo Elementary School 13590 Gibralter Road 360.293.9545

Island View Elementary School 2501 J Avenue 360.293.3149

Mount Erie Elementary School

Welcome to the Port of Anacortes Marine Terminal Commercial dock and wharf Log, heavy lifts and dry bulk cargo loading Anacortes Airport 3,018-foot long by 60 foot wide lighted asphalt runway 69 tie downs and 39 public hangars, new pilot’s lounge Fuel sales are available through our FBO daily Cap Sante Marina Customs port-of-entry 933 slips, accommodates vessels up to 133’ Marine services: fuel, launching facilities, showers, laundry and pump out facilities Free Wi-Fi, complimentary bicycles, slip reservation, summer concerts and events Historic downtown, marine supply, groceries, restaurants nearby

skagit.edu » Offers two-year degrees in nearby Mount Vernon, about 20 miles from Anacortes.

Western Washington University wwu.edu » The nearest four-year college, about 40 miles north in Bellingham.

Anacortes Senior College seniorcollege.org » The Anacortes Senior College, which offers classes in fall, winter and spring terms to adults 50 years and older, works to provide enjoyable learning experiences and social networking for seniors. Six-week courses are $30 and three-week courses are $20.

Event Venues Venues available to rent! Perfect for weddings, memorial services, company parties, trainings and much more!

100 Commercial Ave Anacortes, WA 98221 (360)293-3134 www.portofanacortes.com 34

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

Guemes Island Guemes Island is just north of Anacortes, a five-minute ferry ride away. The car and passenger ferry sails from the end of I Avenue every 30 minutes or so, docking at the end of Guemes Island Road just south of Anderson’s General Store, where many in the tight-knit community get their supplies. Anderson’s also boasts a cafe, serving meals throughout the day from cheeseburgers to beet salad with French goat cheese. Other points of interest on the island include Guemes Island Resort, Youngs Park, Schoolhouse Park and Guemes Mountain, enough for a nice day trip that can include a picnic on the beach or a lunch at Anderson’s. Guemes Island Resort has a variety of accommodations from large beachfront homes to cabins and yurts. Amenities include a boat launch, sauna, massage therapy and kayaks for rent. The resort hosts weddings and other events. Youngs Park, 13 acres next to the resort, has picnicking amenities and water access. Schoolhouse Park is a county park in the middle of the island with a ball field, tennis and basketball courts and playground equipment. A covered area has picnic tables. Guemes Mountain on the east end was purchased through donations from islanders and others to make it into a permanent conservation area through the Skagit Land Trust and San Juan Preservation Trust. Volunteers built a 1.2-mile hiking trail that climbs 550 feet to the summit, a wonderful viewpoint overlooking nearby islands and ocean straits, the Skagit River delta and the North Cascades. anacortesvisitor.com

To get there, get off of the ferry, and take a quick right on Southshore Road. Take a left to stay on Southshore Road. The trailhead is on your right. There is parking for four cars and a bike rack. Anderson’s General Store has a courtesy bike program. To read more about the Guemes Island community, visit: linetime.org

Guemes Facts » Shrimp fishing in the channel

was profitable until about 1912. Guemes residents would row out to the shrimp boats and buy fresh shrimp.

» During World War I, soldiers were stationed in barracks on the south slope of the island.

» The first telephone service

was in 1908 when a 3,450 foot cable was laid across the channel. — Guemes Island Historical Society

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Weather

Anacortes and Fidalgo Island have a well-deserved reputation for some of the finest weather in Western Washington. With a mere 26 inches of average rainfall and mostly or partly sunny skies at least 230 days of the year, Anacortes is an ideal location for anyone looking for a place with a mild climate and unlimited recreational activities. Lying at the eastern edge of the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, Anacortes is sheltered from the heavier precipitation of some of its neighboring cities. Everett to the south and Bellingham to the north get an average of 10 inches more rainfall than Anacortes. And just 15 miles east in Mount Vernon, the average rainfall is 32 inches a year. Spring on Fidalgo Island seems to last forever. It begins in February when the daffodils and tulips start pushing their way through the soil, and it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end until July. During those five months the weather can be very unpredictable â&#x20AC;&#x201D; warm and sunny one day with temperatures in the 70s, then pouring rain and wind the next. Summers are dry and warm and offer some of the best

weather in the country for July through September. Summer temperatures are typically in the 70s, with very little humidity. Rainfall is minimal, with July and August averaging less than an inch. Winters are typically short and mild, with temperatures rarely dipping much below freezing. Average yearly snowfall in the city is just 5 inches. However, there are rare arctic breakouts that can send temperatures plummeting into single digits. Even though Fidalgo Island is relatively small, it still has a number of micro climates. The west side of the island has beautiful sunsets, but can be cooler with more fog and wind than other areas. The southeast end of the island is the driest, with an inch or two less rainfall than the downtown area. The downtown corridor generally has the warmest temperatures. But no matter where you are on Fidalgo Island, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be in one of the best climate zones of the Northwest.

Directory of Advertisers Skagit Valley Casino Resort..................................................2 Upstage....................................................................................4 Burton Jewelers.....................................................................4 Shell..........................................................................................7 Judd & Black............................................................................9 Zip San Juan............................................................................11 Anacortes Inn.........................................................................13 Christianson's Nursery.........................................................17 Anaco TV & Appliance..........................................................17 Anacortes Museum...............................................................21 36

Kenneth Killpack, DDS..........................................................24 Gere-a-Deli.............................................................................26 The Marina Inn.......................................................................27 Cap Sante Inn.........................................................................28 Swinomish Casino..................................................................29 The Outlet Shoppes at Burlington.....................................30 Cap Sante Court Retirement..............................................31 Port of Anacortes..................................................................33 San Juan Passage.....................................................................35 Island Hospital........................................................................36

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com

anacortes, Wa

The Northwestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier coastal community Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re building a neighborhood that embraces and enhances an active coastal lifestyle. Quality, right-sized homes built with attention to livability, craftsmanship and the use of earth friendly materials. Drought-resistant, native landscaping brings the residences, parks and tree-lined streets together as one. And a sense of place and community grows every day.

Models open daily, 11-4pm or by appointment. From Anacortes, take hwy. 20 (12th Ave.) west for 3 miles.The entrance to San Juan Passage is on the right hand side, just before the ferry terminal.

www.sanjuanpassage.com 360-588-6900

anacortesvisitor.com

2013 Anacortes Visitors & Newcomers Guide

anacortesvisitor.com