Mike Carlson Enterprises has announced that their construction work will be suspended, and traffic will be open both directions on Web Street to facilitate traffic during the holiday period of July 3 at 6 p.m. through July 8. A limited number of parking spaces on the side of the street will also be available.  

The Town expects that the current construction configuration (allowing one lane of eastbound traffic on Web Street) will return Monday, July 9 at 6:00 a.m.

The Contractor has also announced that the intersection of Web Street and Argyle Avenue will be closed on Monday, July 9 from approximately 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to accommodate connection of the water main. Drivers are asked to find an alternative route to avoid anticipated delays and closures during the closure.

Fair Food and Fund Raising – by Brad Fincher

The 2018 San Juan County Fair is fast approaching! Different people associate different things with the Fair. For some it is the carnival. For others it is 4-H events, and for even more it is seeing your friends who you haven’t seen since last year’s fair.

For me it is the food. Once again this year, the food court will be a busy bustling place from start to finish.

Here is insider tip #1: Although the Fair opens on Wednesday, if a food vendor gets set up on Tuesday they will always start selling early, once the Health inspection clears them. The County Health Department is on our team  at the Fair, and have always made themselves available at a moment’s notice, and help keep us safe. So, on entry day when you enter your prize vegetable or pie or photograph, head directly to the food court for an early dining start.

I have to admit I have a ritual: Continue Reading

San Juan Islander Thor Hanson has written another lively, informative, and entertaining new book—BUZZ—which is to be released on Tuesday, July 10 with great fanfare at an official launch party hosted by Griffin Bay Bookstore at Brickworks on July 10, 7:00 pm.

If you’ve been anxiously awaiting another wonderful book from our favorite biologist, this is your chance to get a copy that’s right off the press, your chance to hear him talk about his latest foray into nature before he takes off on a book tour.

Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees takes you on a tour of the natural and cultural history of bees. They’re like oxygen: ubiquitous, essential, and, for the most part, unseen. While we might overlook them, they lie at the heart of relationships that bind the human and natural worlds.

In Buzz, author and biologist Thor Hanson takes us on a journey that begins 125 million years ago, when a wasp first dared to feed pollen to its young. From honeybees and bumbles to lesser-known diggers, miners, leafcutters, and masons, bees have long been central to our harvests, our mythologies, and our very existence. They’ve given us sweetness and light, the beauty of flowers, and as much as a third of the foodstuffs we eat. And, alarmingly, they are at risk of disappearing. Continue Reading

Jennifer Horn at The Studio – Tim Dustrude photo

This summer Island Rec is offering a movement camp for girls ages 9-13, taught by Jen Horn at The Studio SJI. Jennifer is a BASI Certified Instructor, PMA^® Certified Pilates Teacher, Certified Bootybarre Instructor, Indo-Row Certified Coach, BOSU Complete Certified Trainer, TRX/RIP Suspension Training Qualified Trainer, Certified Piloxing Instructor and Institute of Integrative Nutrition Certified Health Coach.

Jen will bring you fun and challenging classes offering you knowledge about good body mechanics and principles. This all girls camp will focus on movement and body awareness while incorporating sessions of Pilates, dance, strength and endurance activities followed by relaxation, meditation, and affirmations. A minimum of eight participants is needed by the early fee deadline.

Ages 9-13: July 16-20, 4pm-5pm at The Studio. Early Registration deadline is $54, expires July 5; $59 thereafter.

For more information or registration visit our website at islandrec.org, stop by the Island Rec office Monday-Friday, 11am-5pm, or call us at 360-378-4953.

Islander’s Bank Friday Harbor employees, Rachel Carrillo, Michelle Morton, Beatriz Plaza and Carmen Valencia pose with a few of the chair mastrepieces that will be available July 20 – Contributed photo

The Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor would like to invite you to “Take a Seat for Animals” at their upcoming fundraiser on July 20, “Take a Seat for Animals – A Wine Tasting and Painted Chair Auction”.

This “Chair-ity” event will feature over 30 one-of-a-kind, hand-painted chairs, created by island artists. Maryhill Winery will be on hand to offer tastes of their award-winning wines and hearty appetizers will be served.

Tickets are available now at the animal shelter, Friday Harbor Pet Supplies, and Treasure Hounds. $35 in advance or $40 at the door. Don’t miss the fun!

APS would like to thank the sponsors for this event, Friday Harbor Pet Supplies, Island Veterinary Clinic, Coldwell Banker and Islander’s Bank. Stop by Islander’s Bank to see a preview of some of the chairs that will be auctioned!

Coldwell Banker San Juan Islands, Inc. Brokers, Staff And Management. (Left to right) 1st row: Denny Holm, Michele Mayer, Stephanie Kissee, Sheryl Albritton, Merri Ann Simonson, Bob Elford, Stacey Smith. 2nd row: Maryellen Foster, Kelly Snow, Jane Sawyer. 3rd row: Desiree Guinn, Debra Sullivan, Paula Sundstrom. 4th row: Pamela Williams, Leasa Wangoe, Barbara Buck, Thane Bolger. 5th row: Tim Gambrell, Steve Buck, Sam Buck. Not pictured: Laura Boulton, Erica Christenson, Chuck Payne, Vicki Telford, Nancy Young, Peter Wangoe – Contributed photo

Coldwell Banker is the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce Featured Member of the Month. Here’s more from the chamber…

Coldwell Banker San Juan Islands, Inc. is a family owned company, originally  started in 1960 by Sam and Barbara Buck, as San Juan Properties, Inc., a real estate sales and development company.

Steve Buck joined the company in 1981. In 1984, the Buck family acquired a Coldwell Banker Franchise. (*see below for more info on that)

Steve Buck took over company operations in 1986. His brother, Sam, joined the company in 1987. In 1993, Steve established Coldwell Banker San Juan Islands, Inc. as a solely real estate sales company, with San Juan Properties then becoming solely a development company. Continue Reading

The County Council is searching for San Juan County citizens to fill current and upcoming vacancies on various boards and commissions.

Additional information about each committee is available on the County’s website at: http://sanjuanco.com/641/Board-Committee-Vacancies.

Persons interested in serving on a board or advisory committee should fill out an Advisory Committee Application or Contact the Council Office at: (360) 378-2898 [email protected]

Ina Mullis Using Valuable Coupons at San Juan Brewery with Caleb Delazerda – Peggy Sue McRae photo

Island Senior is a regular column on the San Juan Update written by Peggy Sue McRae…

Island a’ la Carte, the Mullis Center’s new coupon book just came out. I already used my first coupon at San Juan Bakery this morning. With 20% off of my entire purchase that was a good deal. The coupon books are a fundraiser for the Mullis Center’s daily operations and at $30 the books pay for themselves after just a few purchases.

At my first thumb through I noticed that thanks to Friday Harbor Dentistry’s generous $30 coupon, one trip to my dentist and my book will be completely paid for. With 32 food and eating establishments listed if you eat out at all in Friday harbor, from Herb’s Tavern to Duck Soup, from Vic’s to Vinny’s Risorante, with your coupon book you will save a bundle. Continue Reading

San Juan County Superior Court and Juvenile Court Services celebrated family reunification and our Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers.

Commemorating parents who have worked hard to successfully reunify their families after significant struggles, the Washington Supreme Court Commission on Children in Foster Care proclaimed June Washington’s Family Reunification Month.

The Commission encouraged courts and communities across the state to recognize parents for their commitment to overcoming obstacles in order to learn, improve and bring their families back together. The celebration also recognizes the work of social workers, court staff, foster parents, attorneys, CASA volunteers, parent mentors and others who become part of a team monitoring and guiding parents as they move forward.

San Juan County celebrated family reunification and recognized our Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers with a gathering in the Superior Court on June 28, 2018. Continue Reading

The following is a guest post written by Amelia Johnson. See more about her at the end of the article…

We all know the health benefits of drinking plenty of water daily (1). However, kids tend to have different thoughts about this. Most of them will only drink water after being reminded or under strict supervision. Most kids are physically active. This means that they lose lots of water in a day. If they don’t compensate for this loss, their health status can be badly affected.

With plenty of alternatives such as tasty juices and chocolate milk, encouraging your kid to drink water won’t be a walk in the park. However, it is an undertaking that you can achieve. Here are the best ways of encouraging your kid to drink more water each day: Continue Reading

Beatrice is this week’s Pet of the Week – Contributed photo

It’s true. Cats know what you’re thinking and feeling. We know your fondest desires and deepest emotions. We know your likes and dislikes; your hopes and your dreams. We don’t care, but we know.

My name is Beatrice and if you’re in need of a friend, I’m a very good listener. You can tell me anything. I promise not to care.

Come and meet me at the animal shelter. I think we’d be good for each other.

Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor
111 Shelter Road
(360) 378-2158

Dear Beer and Wine Fans –  The 2018 San Juan County Fair is approaching! I will again be setting-up and the Beer and Wine booth.  Pete Rose will manage the booth in my absence. And—I am looking for volunteers to help watch over the booth. If you would like to help, please click this link to sign up.

The Fair opens  Wednesday August 15. It runs from 10am to 9pm, until Saturday August 18 when it closes at 6:00 pm.  

Thanks!  Jim Dunn

San Juan County Health & Community Services Issues Varicella Outbreak Update

Eleven cases of Varicella, or “chicken pox,” have now been confirmed in the Orcas Island community. None of the cases have been hospitalized.

The best way to protect against varicella is to receive a vaccine according to current vaccination guidelines.

Now is a good time for individuals and family members to review vaccination records and ensure immunizations are up to date. If vaccinations are not up to date, or you have questions about vaccinations or varicella, please contact your health care provider, or San Juan County Health & Community Services at 360-378-4474.

Additional information and resources on varicella may be found on the San Juan County Health & Community Services website.

Ruth Offen at WaterWorks invites you to meet David on Saturday…

Please join me in welcoming David Ridgway to the gallery on Saturday, June 30th from 11 to 1 pm. David will chat informally about what inspires his work and how he paints.

David has a unique approach with landscapes: he initially removes any signs of present day, like power lines or cell towers. Then, he simplifies the form and intensifies the color. His skies become heavy white rocks, gliding by a farm barnyard scene without the creatures that inhabit those spaces. Portrayed in rich velvety purples and reds, we now see a bunch of simplified forms that evoke a barnyard.

David is a self-taught artist, currently living in Bellingham, spending his time painting and traveling to places that inspire him. Waterworks Gallery, located at 315 Argyle Ave, Friday Harbor has represented his works for 18 years.

The gallery is open, Monday, Wednesday – Sunday, other times by request. www.waterworksgallery.com

L to R: Scott Sluis, Chamber; Brian & Theresa Carlson, Vic’s owners, Miranda Reitan and Aaron Rock, Vic’s employees; Gail Schnee, Chamber; Steve Hushebeck, Town Council; and Becki Day, Chamber Executive Director – Tim Dustrude photo

The Vic’s Cheeseburger mascot and a couple of friends in front of the restaurant – Tim Dustrude photo

To commemorate 60 years in business at Vic’s Drive In on Thursday, members of the Chamber of Commerce and the Friday Harbor Town Council held a brief ceremony after which Vic’s owners Brian and Theresa Carlson cut a big ribbon to celebrate.

Along with the ribbon cutting ceremony, Vic’s also rolled back prices for 2 hours to what they would have been in 1958. Many people took advantage and treated themselves to 35-cent hamburgers or 40-cent cheeseburgers and the lines were long for most of the afternoon with seating difficult to find in the dining room.

The Women’s Fund members voted to award $8,385 to 6 local nonprofits during the most recent grant cycle. The San Juan Island Family Resource Center, San Juan Island Library, UW Friday Harbor Labs, WA Vocational Services, Friday Harbor Elementary School and Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood all received funds to help support projects underway this summer.

The Women’s Fund recently celebrated 15 years of giving at their annual member luncheon held at Brickworks on June 21st. After hearing a fascinating update from Jennifer Armstrong of the Family Resource Center, Dr. Carolyn Haugen was presented the first annual Joyce Sobel Memorial Award – created by the Women’s Fund Coordinating Committee as a way to honor Joyce’s legacy of service to the community.

Gay Graham, the emcee of this year’s luncheon and a member of the Women’s Fund Coordinating Committee explained the newly-created award: “Joyce Sobel, throughout her lifetime on San Juan Island, contributed tirelessly to the community through her myriad volunteer activities, nonprofit leadership and advisory roles.  The Women’s Fund Coordinating Committee decided to create an award to recognize an outstanding woman whose efforts are closely aligned with Joyce’s spirit of giving back to the community. Dr. Carolyn Haugen, for her many years of service to so many different causes, is a perfect first recipient of this award.” Continue Reading