Marty Robinson at the elementary school sends over this invitation…

Geoffrey Castle to perform in Friday Harbor

Violinist Geoffrey Castle will be here on May 31st to put on a dynamic assembly for our elementary school students. He will then follow up with some violin workshops as well. Then on the evenings of May 31st and June 1st,  he will perform in concert at San Juan Community Theater to benefit the FHES Arts Program. Geoffrey has played all over the world and he puts on a show you and your family will never forget.

Tickets are now on sale at SJCT and in our FHES main office.  This could be substantial if we sell enough tickets, so please spread the word to buy your tickets NOW! The FHES arts program is partially self-supporting.

See more info here on SJCT’s website.

The San Juan County Council announced their unanimous decision today to offer the position of County Manager to Michael Thomas, currently the City Administrator for the City of Enumclaw, Washington.

Council member Bob Jarman praised Thomas for his background in economic development and community planning, citing that it will be critical in addressing the land use and planning issues the County faces.  Jarman also said that Mike Thomas will be a great addition to the Council team.

Member Rick Hughes spoke of Mike’s experience and familiarity with the laws of Washington State – and said he was very pleased that Thomas will be moving here with his family, including two school age children.

Council Chair Jamie Stephens detailed the steps that had been taken in the recruitment process, citing the strong roster of finalists provided by the recruiter.  Stephens thanked the members of the community and staff who participated in the selection process and said he hoped Mike will be able to join the County staff the last week in June.  Stephens said Mike’s collaborative team approach will work well here, and that he appreciated that Mike’s style was to work with councils and department heads to help them get their work done, rather than directing them.

Michael Thomas will be the first regular County Manager under the changes to the County Charter approved by voters in November, 2012.  Bob Jean has been the Interim County Administrator, then the Interim County Manager, since last June.

There were 44 applicants for the position, with 5 currently residing in the County.  The recruiting firm of The Prothman Company screened the candidates and presented the County Council with a list of semifinalists.  The Council selected a list of finalists to interview, including one local candidate who then withdrew from consideration prior to the interviews.

On Monday, May 13^th, the five candidates visited County facilities and met with islanders and answered questions at open houses held on Orcas Island, Lopez Island and San Juan Island.  On Tuesday, May 14^th, the candidates were interviewed by separate panels made up of County residents, County staff, and the County Council.  The Council then held an executive session on Wednesday, May 15^th, to interview the two top candidates.  The Council met today in executive session to discuss the qualifications of the top candidates and then moved into open session for their deliberations and selection.

Meet Tyrone, this week’s Pet of the Week

This little fella is Tyrone.  He arrived with his buddy and possible litter-mate, “Cleetus” from California last week.  We think Tyrone and Cleetus are about 6 months old – they have lots of puppy spunk and love to play, play, play… followed by some serious napping and snuggling.   These guys probably won’t get too much bigger as they are Chihuahua mixes of some kind.  Stop by the shelter to meet these sweet-natured boys!  111 Shelter Drive.  (360) 378-2158.

Just got this message from Susan and Scott at the bowling alley:

Summer bowlers are needed to fill out the Monday night league. Summer League goes from May 20 until August 12th. We won’t play on Memorial Day and there’s still time for people to join and begin bowling on June 3.  All bowlers are welcome regardless of ability or experience, and we encourage new bowlers to come and give it a try.  You can join an existing team or form your own team of 4 bowlers. Each bowler establishes a handicap which levels the “friendly” competition and there are cash prizes on the last day of League.

Also we are excited about the new restaurant opening at the bowling alley on June 1. This makes League night also a fun night out with friends that can include dinner and drinks right at your table as you bowl.

It’s easy to sign up. Stop by (365 Spring Street) or give us a call (370-5667 ext 1) and let us answer your questions. Are you a new bowler, or haven’t bowled in a while? Scott gives lessons too!

Photo courtesy San Juan County Land Bank

Join Jane Wentworth of the Washington Native Plant Society and Doug McCutchen, San Juan County Land Bank Steward, to walk the Westside Preserve. Famous for its views of sunsets, marine wildlife and sweeping vistas, it is also home to one of the rarer and most bio-diverse habitats of our region. Meet and park at Lime Kiln Point State Park (Discovery or day pass required) to carpool to trailhead. Length is 1.25 mi. round trip. Terrain is rustic trail with some travel on county road. Difficulty rating is moderate. Dogs on leashes welcome. Rain or shine. Information at www.sanjuanislandtrails.org.

Saturday, May 25 1:00 – 4:00 PM

Newly elected board members attending the meeting and this year’s “Person Who Makes a Difference” award: (L to R) Ann Jarrell, Beverly Zapalac, Clare Kelm, Louisa Nishitani this year’s honoree, Diane Martindale, president elect, Leslie Viers, Audra Adelberger, secretary, Carol Baylis and Jill Johnson. Board members not in attendance: Vice president elect Susan Dehlendorf, treasurer Pat Curtin, Amanda Brast, Sarah Crosby, and Margie Doyle

The League of Women Voters of the San Juan’s elected their new board of directors for 2013-2014 at their Annual Meeting at Vinny’s Ristorante on May 13, 2013.  The featured speaker, Necia Quast of San Juan Island, presented a riveting account of her experiences in the US Foreign Service and whose tenure included notable hardship postings such as the Republic of Tajikistan, Nigeria and Guyana.

The League also recognized two individuals as “Persons Who Make a Difference”, Louisa Nishitani for her volunteerism, outreach and activism most recently regarding potential damage to our marine environment should the proposed Gateway Pacific Terminal at Cherry Point be permitted.

“Person Who Makes a Difference” honoree, Louisa Nishitani, flanked by president elect Diane Martindale, and board member Ann Jarrell.

Also honored was Friday Harbor High School teacher Jim McNairy for his focus on civics education and responsible citizenship.

Recipient of the this year’s “Teacher Who Makes a Difference” award, Jim McNairy of Friday Harbor High School, addressing the League.

“Starfish” A photo from Two Windows by Tim Dustrude

There is a club forming for anyone interested in photography. Mary Haselow is the main organizer for it with help from Tim Dustrude (yes, me).  We are hoping to find more people who would like to participate and even help organize and lead events. This is very easy – very low key and informal. You have an idea that would be fun to have a group walking around shooting pictures of? Let’s talk. (or email). So far there are about 7 –  10 members and we’ve had 2 meetings since January and 2 photo walks.

This coming Sunday we are getting together at Cattle Point for an extreme low tide Tide Pools Photo Shoot. Everyone is welcome. If you’re interested, please either send us a quick email or RSVP on the club website. You’ll want to wear some sturdy shoes for hiking down to the water from the lighthouse and for walking on all the slippery rocks. Check out the event page at that link above and we hope to see you there!

John Miller was at the blessing of Peace Island Medical Center on Saturday and he has these photos to share with you. Click here to see the gallery.