November 21, 2006

The Branding Contest: Pretty fun - Gordy Petersen has been running a branding contest, the results of which are posted on the Island Guardian. He explains:

"As you know, the branding process can be VERY expensive, then everyone in the community says 'I could have come up with that – or something better'! As you might know, the Town of Friday Harbor funded branding research a few years ago and came up with 'A Natural Playground.' We used it for a bit, but two County Commissioners didn’t like it, so we stopped. It made one of them think of Disneyland.

"Unlike the Town of Friday Harbor, our branding contest is not expensive at all and it shows. It is sad that any money was spent on the lame slogan 'A Natural Playground'. Like I said, we can do better and I think we did. So here are the top entries so far."

You have to check it out. You'll crack up. It's great.

Friday Harbor Soroptomists Seek Women’s Opportunity Award Applicants: Each year, Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor awards a $1500 grant to an area woman who provides the primary source of financial support for her family and is improving her life through education and skills training. The award may be used to offset any costs associated with efforts to attain higher education, including books, childcare and transportation expenses. Club recipients then become eligible for additional cash awards at regional levels of the organization, including three $10,000 finalist awards.

Applications are available at the Family Resource Center, Skagit Valley College, all island libraries, and at the Toy Box at 20 First Street, Friday Harbor, or by calling Nancy Hanson at the Toy Box at 378-8889. They  can also be downloaded from the group's website at: www.sifri.com.

Since 1972, the Soroptomist Women’s Opportunity Awards program has aided women who must enter the workforce or upgrade their employment status. Each year, almost $1 million in Women’s Opportunity Awards are granted.

Applications must be returned by December 15 to Soroptomist International of Friday Harbor at PO Box 2856, Friday Harbor, or dropped off at the Toy Box.

November 20, 2006

It's this weekend: The Island Artisans Annual Holiday Marketplace happens Friday & Saturday at the elementary school - this is one of the great events of the year, and a good first-stop for your holiday shopping, beginning with all locally produced work. I know I'll be there - see you there, too!

It's 10 to 5, with breakfast & lunch available. Chow down & bring the urchins.

Educating Rita plays on: It's happening at Roche Harbor this weekend again - click here for times & stuff. You don't want to miss it!

Chris checks in: Chris Teren sent a portfolio of what he and Mike & Dawn from the Dive Shop are doing in Florida - wow. Pretty cool underwater stuff. Here's the scoop:

Hey, Ian - I just got back from DEMA (it’s a HUGE dive equipment/travel trade show +/- 10,000 people attended!) and had some very interesting experiences! For starters, I got to dive in the Epcot Center aquarium! It was fun BEING the show instead of just LOOKING at the show! I got a DVD from the good folks at Disney World, but haven’t had a chance to get some screen captures of it.

After DEMA, I ran away with Mike and Dawn to Ginnie Springs, an amazing natural springs with crystal clear water with miles of underwater caves near Gainesville, Florida, and guess what I did? I learned how to cavern dive! It was absolutely incredible, and I’m hooked! Now to work on the cave diving classes...!! Anyway, Dawn was acting as photographer for a lot of this (I was busy learning how to dive in a frikkin’ cave!) and the pictures are great, and I got to take a few too! So enjoy an entirely new world of diving!

Off the rock: Remember John Goekler? He lived on Lopez for 18 years before moving to San Juan a couple of years ago. He helped found Facing the Future, serving as non-profit that taught teachers how to teach about population issues, all around the US & Canada. He worked at Spring Street as admissions director for a bit, and lately has been doing nation-wide consulting with corporate entities about what are the factors of change, and how to make it happen.

He's taking off this week to re-locate on the non-island of New Mexico to continue with his consulting work. Wishing him well....

Marine mammals unprotected by under-informed reporters: I was just reading an article that says marine mammals might be hurt by PCBs and other human-made poisons & pollutants. While I'm glad people are starting to get the linkage, it's about time we move past the "might be harmful" stage - studies on dead mamrine mammals and whales have shown for years that PCBs have been not just found in their blubber, but complicit in their short life-spans & deaths.

Looking for a few good leaders: Leadership San Juan Islands (LSJI) will hold an Open House November 29, 4:00-6:30 p.m. in the Friday Harbor Labs Commons, which will include a soup supper, in order to recruit candidates for the Class of 2007.  Alumni from LSJI Classes of 2005 and 2006 are also invited, as well as graduates from other leadership programs held around the country who now live and/or work in the San Juans. Here's a download of the open house details; here's more about the program.

Quote: "You say grace before meals. All right. But I say grace before the concert and the opera, and grace before the play and pantomime, and grace before I open a book, and grace before sketching, painting, swimming, fencing, boxing, walking, playing, dancing and grace before I dip the pen in the ink." ~ G.K. Chesterton

November 17, 2006

Today's celebrity report: You may wonder why I never tell you stories about the famous people who live here...that's 'cause they live here, silly. If I tell everybody who's here...well, you know what that would turn into.

After all, look what happened after Free Willy came out.

Anyway, sometimes famous people do come to visit. On the first of December, Boardwalk Books has invited Ann Rule to come read from her new book, "No Regrets," which includes a murder on Lopez Island (she writes crime-related books, which sell better than most anything else).

Then, in February (according to Mike Adams, who knows just about everything musical on the island), guitarist David Lindley (left) is coming to do a show. Besides doing his own stuff, you'll recognize DL as the guy who provides the pedal steel work on Jackson Browne's work. It's cool he's coming here.

But if he decides to live here, I ain't telling you.

Dressing up: I went to the fashion show that Teri & Maureen from Dominique's put on, which showed off the clothes they have for the season. Using models from the local PTA (Teri says they're all friends of hers & Maureen's, most with kids in school), they went table to table at Vinny's last night, and a good time was had by all.

In this little portfolio of photos from the evening, you'll see not only the models but also friends & husbands & boyfriends who came to support their friends getting all dressed up. That's Teresa to the right, looking good.

Quote: Just as a small fire is extinguished by the storm whereas a large fire is enhanced by it-likewise a weak faith is weakened by predicament and catastrophes whereas a strong faith is strengthened by them. - Viktor E. Frankl

November 16, 2006

Butterfly not listed: In all the world, island marble butterflies only live on Lopez and on our island, and their numbers are threatened by the loss of prairie habitat here, as American Camp folks sprayed herbicide there last year.

Still, the US Fish & Wildlife folks denied the species endangered species protection last week. It was an action initiated & hoped for by the Friends of the San Juans (in 2002) and others...here's more.

Now, just rain: After all the wind, and more wind, the last couple of weeks, the forecast is calling for rain & then more rain, especially this weekend. With little bits of clearing skies today, you better get the wood chopped.

South Beach, wild in the wind: Going down to South Beach yesterday was wonderful - the wind blew so hard it was hard to open the car door, and the waves were crashing on the shore - pretty unusual on our peaceful beaches. Seeing waves and rolling seas and feeling all the power of nature - made for a beautiful day.

Pies! You can order a pecan pie ($12) or pumpkin pie ($10) from Wendy Wood at 370-5462 for Thanksgiving - they'll be selling 'em at Kings & the Marketplace from 8:30am - 3pm as well. Proceeds go to the Brownies & Girl Scouts.

Quote: A very Faustian choice is upon us: whether to accept our corrosive and risky behavior as the unavoidable price of population and economic growth, or to take stock of ourselves and search for a new environmental ethic. - E. O. Wilson

November 15, 2006 (after the power outage)

Lights back on after two hours: Around 11:20 or so this morning, the electricity went out, county-wide, due to something going wrong on the mainland... I wasn't sure the power was really out, because I was at King's getting some stuff & the lights came back on moments later - that's because they have a backup generator for emergencies. I dropped by the school for something to discover the power off there too, so I knew it was for real.

The power came back on at about 1:20pm, so the school district correctly (in my mind) had not sent the kids home to parent-less houses, and had kept them (as Maude in the district office put it) "warm & safe & dry" at school. We have pretty creative teachers, too - I can imagine them using their emergency lesson plans well, even in the dark.

I went downtwn to see what folks were doing, and some stores were closed (restaurants have a hard time making lunch if there's no power), some were open (I got a bite at the Golden Triangle - Sue & Avon had their cafeteria-style lunch ready to serve, and somehow still warm), and others promised to open after the power returned.

Meanwhile, out on the water on this incredibly windy day: Jodi dropped me this note this afternoon about the vessel rescue folks, busy today:

Hi, Ian, I'm perched over Warbass with an enviable view of the harbor while answering my e-mail.  My computer clock tells me I've been here 43 minutes and 52 seconds.  Twice in that period I have seen "The Remedy" and her "pace boat" assisting boats in apparent distress.  I can't help but have a great respect for whoever is crewing "The Remedy" and the grey companion that runs alongside.  The sea is humpy and the wind is rocking all the boats on the water.  I'm not on a boat.  I'm a land based creature.  But thank you to whoever you are out there, helping keep others and their boats safe and sound.  - Jodi Calhoun

November 15, 2006

Thinking about the future, thinking about future generations: It looks like the fundraising was successful - it was announced yesterday that Turtleback Mountain will be purchased after all.

According to the Seattle Times, "Turtleback Mountain will be a gift from our generation to those that will follow," said Tim Seifert, executive director of the San Juan Preservation Trust, as the deal closes today. Here's more....

Dead whale coming this way: Dr. David Duggins and folks from the Friday Harbor Marine Labs are towing that dead 54-foot-long fin whale you might have heard about from near Everett to the harbor here. They plan to do a sink it near here so they can watch how it decomposes, and monitor what species of what feeds on the carcass.

Here's more. And here's a bit (see the November 11, 2002 heading) in the Update when they did the same with a whale after a necropsy was performed here, that year.

I asked my friend Max to make a scary face on the ferry last week, and he did. Boo.

What to do, Thursday morning before the turkey: Paul Hopkins has another race set up, this time the morning before all the food...here's the story:

The second annual “Turkey Trot”, a 5K (3.1 mile) run, walk, trot or crawl, will be held on Thanksgiving morning, November 23, at 9:00 am. Registration will take place beginning at 8:00 am in front of the Best Western Friday Harbor Suites, the location of the start and finish, rain or shine.

Registration fees will be $5.00 and two cans of food for adults and $2.00 and two cans of food for kids under 16. Proceeds from the Turkey Trot will go to the Friday Harbor Food Bank.

The Turkey Trot is produced by Island Athletic Events, LLC with special thanks to Kings Market and Best Western. For more information, contact Paul Hopkins at 472-0908.

What to do, Saturday morning: OK, remember I told you that there was a book fair at the elementary school this weekend (see Jan's note two days ago, below)? Well, that's not all. Jodi Digiacomo tells me you can eat there, too:

Here's the deal: Breakfast Fundraiser at the SJ Elementary School. Come enjoy a sumptuous breakfast this Saturday November 18th, 9-11am, prepared by the 5th grade class. $5 for kids, $10 for adults and $25 for a family. There also will be a raffle and the annual PTA Bookfair taking place. Funds raised will support a trip to the Pacific Science Center and graduation expenses. See you there!

But that's not all - there's more books to be bought over at the Library...here's the word from Barry Jacobson:

Hi, Ian.... I saw the item on the Saturday PTA Book Sale in the Update. On the same date as the PTA sale, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, The Friends of the San Juan Island Library is also holding a book sale at the library, primarily featuring used and new adult fiction and non-fiction books, suitable for gift giving. There will be an abundance of new and nearly-new bestsellers. In addition to some children?s books, many quality non-fiction and coffee-table books will also be available, with subjects as diverse as gardening, travel, photography, cooking, crafts, history and more.

Holiday cards, including new designs by island artists, will also be available for purchase. The proceeds from the sale will be used to support activities in the library, and for the purchase of special items for the library.

So, start at the PTA sale at the elementary school, then come on over to the Friends of the Library sale at the Library. - Barry

Helping Montana: There's a plea for helping little Montana Crosby, an 18-month-old with liver cancer. Here's the story in the San Juan Islander - see if you can help out.

Cover by Nancy Spaulding: Remember I told you about Michael Donnelly's False Harbor, set in the islands? I meant to tell you - the cover was painted by San Juan Island's own Nancy Spaulding. You can see more of her work at Island Studios; you can order the book at any of the local bookstores.

November 14, 2006

Tawny delivers: Kim over at Whidbey wrote me Monday afternoon that Tawny Frazier delivered a healthy baby boy who is 7 pounds, 12 oz., 20 and a half inches, and named Galvin Garcia - he joins dad Jason Garcia and big brother Jaden. Congrats!

Lori leaves: After nearly three years with the prosecutor's office, deputy prosecutor Lori Preuss (right) is leaving next week for a new position in Olympia with the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

County Prosecutor Randy Gaylord says, "Lori has done a great job in San Juan County.  She developed a good reputation for being a strong advocate, especiallly in fish and wildlife cases.  This new job is a natural fit and we wish her the very best in Olympia."

Fashion show: Maureen & Teri at Dominique's tell me they have an "evening of fashion fun" set for Thursday at Vinny's from 5:30-7:30pm. The last time this was done was three years ago when Dominique owned the shop...the event is free, but you need to plan on eating something to help the restaurant out.

Teri says, "Bring your friends & check out the latest in women's holiday & winter styles." There's also complimentary champagne while you're dining....and the store will be open after the show till 9.

Buy local!

Open House: Phebe Smith sent along this little note:

You are invited to "Holidays at Home", with San Juan Florist and Friday Harbor Trading Company.
November 14, 3-7pm. Special Savings! Refreshments and Door Prizes!

Great idea! Buy local!

Cars & car stereos: That's not the only thing going on - Wendy (left) at M&W Auto Sales & Rentals tells me:

Hi, Ian - I just wanted to get the word out, that M & W Auto Sales is having its yearly clearance sale starting this Wed. Nov.1 st. All vehicles on our lot are reduced. And 25% off car stereos. (think gift giving!) Hours 9am to 5pm. If you need me to stay later or have questions, just call 378-2794. Thanks, Wendy

Right idea - get 'em here! Buy local!

Garage sale: Frank Penwell says there's a garage sale this weekend, to make money for next year's graduates:

Hi, Ian! There's a Dollars For Scholars garage sale on Saturday, November 18th, at Spring Street School,  from 8:30 to 1:00pm. Furniture, tools, appliances, & miscellaneous items. Come support the students!

And...buy local. Even garage sales, dude.

New book - whales, for kids: Author Naomi Black has taken the story of Springer the orca & turned it into a fictionalized kids' book called "Springer's Journey" - here's the story about the book.

But, when you buy it, go to one of our local stores & order it! They'll get it for you! Buy local!

Quote: Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened. - Dr. Suess.

 

November 13, 2006

Academy Award for an islander? James Longley's film "Iraq in Fragments" opened this weekend in Seattle and other cities around the US, and is on the whisper-list for a possible Oscar nomination. (That's James, right.)

I saw proud papa Roger at the store a couple of nights ago, and he says it's being well received. Here's more...

A chance to be part of the solution: The Kinship Conservation Fellows are looking for folks to apply for next year's workshops during the summer. Here's more...

"It is not possible to separate the human economy from the natural environment," notes Kinship Director, Jim Tolisano, "and the most effective and enduring conservation strategies will employ the marketplace as a critical element." Tolisano emphasizes that, "the leaders in the environmental movement worldwide have fully embraced this reality, and anyone hoping to work with conservation solutions should have a very clear understanding of how to use these tools and options. Kinship is specifically designed to provide the next generation of conservation leaders with these skills." Here's more....

Wish it was them: The Vancouver (WA) Columbian says they're happy about the Travel Washington ads that were announced last week - one of the three places featured is the San Juans - and hopes the Vancouver area gets a shot at being in the next series. Here's more from their editorial.

Football: As the state football tourney continues, the Friday Harbor Wolverines will spend the rest of this post-season at home...in the rain & wind & cold Saturday night, FHHS lost 21-0 for their earliest playoff exit in four years. There's a lot to be proud of this season, and the future looks bright for next year as well. Way to go, Wolverines!

Fans came from everywhere, including Natalie Chevalier and Chas Lawson from university, whom I saw on the Friday night ferry with Nat's grandma Robin.

The PTA Book Sale: It's happening this weekend - here's the story from Jan Bollwinkel-Smith:

Adventures in reading and demonstrations of life in the past highlight Friday Harbor Elementary School’s annual Book Fair on Saturday, November 18.

The PTA-sponsored Book Fair takes the starring role during November’s “I Love To Read” month. This year’s theme is the State of Washington.

In addition to hundreds of books for sale through Scholastic (both children and adult fiction and non-fiction), the Fair includes storytellers, wood-carving demonstrations, and National Parks reenactment volunteers setting up camp to demonstrate life as a pioneer.

Profits from the Book Fair will go directly to PTA programs and activities at the school.

For those hungry readers, fifth graders will be hosting a breakfast that morning to raise money for their class field trips.

The Book Fair takes place inside the FHES library and cafeteria from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

On the boat: That's Windemere's Yvette and her boy Trey (right) on the ferry Friday, heading to Seattle to get her friend at the airport.

Christmas Tree sale coming up: My friend Denice sent this bit in for you - note: you have to call her to order by Nov. 21st:

Hi, Ian! Paideia Classical School, where Peter and Katie are in kindergarten, is selling Christmas trees as a fundraiser this year. The trees will be delivered to the school, which is on Price Street in Friday Harbor, and can be picked up on Saturday, December 2 from 10-2. If that date doesn't work for you, we can arrange another time for pick up. We are also offering delivery to your door for $10, if that would be more convenient for you. The trees are Oregon evergreens that are fresh cut within 48 hours of arrival on the island. There is a money back guarantee so you can be sure these will be very nice trees. Trees can also be purchased for donation to needy island families. Payment is by cash or check. The prices are between $39 - $83. You can let me know if you are interested either by responding to this email or by calling me at 378-9641. And please feel free to pass this information on to anyone you think might be. There are only 42 days until Christmas! Thanks a lot for your support.

Other sports: FHHS' rival LaConnor won the state tourney Saturday to become the first western Washington team to take the 2B title since FHHS did back in '86, according to the Spokane newspaper.

Quote: "The length of one's days matters less than the love of one's family and friends," Gerald Ford, who is now the longest living US president.