Some of the news about COVID-19 is improving, but the latest update from the San Juan County Department of Health is still very cautious: Please understand that one small gathering around a campfire or one low key potluck with just a few friends can cause a major ripple of impacts through our communities. There’s no group of  Continue Reading

By Louise Dustrude – These are challenging times for everyone, and for some individuals and families the challenges are made worse by alcohol or other drugs. Alcoholics Anonymous has long been a resource for those who acknowledge that they are “powerless over alcohol”; Al-Anon is a well-established resource for those impacted by another person’s drinking;  Continue Reading

The pig at Brickworks says “Thank You” to San Juan Island for all of your exemplary self-distancing and your selfless response to this Covid-19 crisis. And please remember to wear your mask when out and about where you’re likely to be near others (but not nearer than 6 feet!) Photo by Kathleen Nelson.

Land Bank Preserves continue to remain open despite other federal and state public land closures because we believe people need access to nature close to home, especially when nothing else in life seems normal. We islanders are fortunate enough to live in a place where we can get outside and take in fresh air while  Continue Reading

Farmers markets in San Juan County are essential providers of locally grown, healthy foods. Our farmers markets have an important role in sustaining the local food chain, and have been working with San Juan County Health & Community Services to ensure safety precautions are in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Decisions around  Continue Reading

By Louise Dustrude Testing for COVID-19 in the county is stepping up a bit, as tests slowly become available and as testing labs begin to have more capacity. As of yesterday the county had reported 14 positive cases and reported that 459 people had been tested. PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center reported on April 14  Continue Reading

This week “COVID-19 Community Conversations” continues with three short videos that highlight efforts from organizations and people peoviding key services and crucial leadership in our community. You can find these videos on our YouTube channel at  San Juan County COVID-19 Response. Or click on the videos below: Norvin Collins, Chief of San Juan Island Fire  Continue Reading

FRIDAY HARBOR, Wash., April 16, 2020 – With shared purpose, PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center and San Juan County Health and Community Services continue to work together to control the spread of novel coronavirus and ensure the health of island communities. On Tuesday, April 14, both organizations were informed of COVID-19 test results performed for  Continue Reading

In the last three weeks, SJICF has raised $145k for the newly established SJICF Community Emergency Response Fund. The fund was created to meet the increasing community needs as a result of COVID-19 response. In March, a goal was set to raise $100k in the first few weeks and an additional $150k to continue to  Continue Reading

Skagit Valley College’s Continuing and Community Education department (CCE) is pleased to announce new online workshop programming that is starting at the end of April. The new format is called eCCE and is designed for people who would like to enjoy online non-credit workshops outside of the traditional classroom setting while they build career skills,  Continue Reading