Posted May 6, 2014 at 5:43 am by Tim Dustrude
Click for larger event poster
Rock the Mic auditions begin tomorrow night – Wednesday, May 7th.
This is the “Rock the Mic” Karaoke Contest and fundraiser put on by Team Herb’s Local, with auditions each Wednesday evening in May and a final competition on June 13th.
Lots of fun, and lots of money will be raised for great local causes – prizes will include: HDTVs, Kindle Fires and iPods.
Posted May 6, 2014 at 5:35 am by Tim Dustrude
Help FRIENDS of the San Juans Celebrate 35 years by Giving BIG!
FRIENDS of the San Juans turns 35 this year. Since 1979, we have worked hard to protect and restore the San Juan Islands for people and wildlife. The public can help us celebrate by “giving big” and helping us raise $35,000 for our Safe Shipping Program.
FRIENDS of the San Juans is excited to take part in the Seattle Foundation’s GiveBIG event this Tuesday, May 6. The more FRIENDS raises through the Seattle Foundation’s website, the more percentage of dollars we will receive from the stretch pool, and the more funding we will have to protect the Salish Sea from the risk of a major oil spill. Plus we might win a Golden Ticket! The Seattle Foundation will randomly pick donors to select a non-profit of their choice to receive an additional $1,000. And the donors they select will also receive a $100 gift certificate.
Everyone and everything on our coast – our islands, our environment and our economy – will be directly affected by a marine oil spill. Export terminal projects proposed in British Columbia and Washington threaten to add an additional 2,620 ship visits per year to our crowded waters making us one of North America’s busiest fossil fuel shipping corridors.
Our Safe Shipping program is generating cross-border support for increased shipping safety standards in order to reduce threats from fossil fuel vessel transportation through our shared waters. In fact, we were just at the Salish Sea Ecosystem Conference last week collaborating with our Canadian and Tribal partners.
Help FRIENDS celebrate our 35th Anniversary! Make a gift today through GiveBIG and help us raise $35,000 for our Safe Shipping program.
Thank you for your support!
Posted May 6, 2014 at 5:29 am by Tim Dustrude
The Animal Protection Society – Friday Harbor invites everyone to “Yappy Hour” at Mike’s Café and Wine Bar at 135 2nd Street, Thursday, May 8 from 5:00 to 6:30.
Stop by for a glass of award-winning Totem Cellars Wine, enjoy a bite from Mike’s wonderful tapas menu and a generous portion of your bill will be donated to the animal shelter.
Bring an item for the shelter’s wish list and get a free raffle ticket for each item you bring. There will be great raffle prizes for the lucky winners. Shelter wish list: canned pet food, dog and cat treats, bleach, laundry detergent, paper towels, dog and cat toys, dry cat food.
Posted May 6, 2014 at 5:26 am by Tim Dustrude
The Tooth Mobile is coming back to the Mullis Center, on Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17th.
Fish For Teeth is sponsoring this clinic to provide dental care for anyone who is financially unable to afford it. Applications can be downloaded from our website at fishforteeth.com and dropped off at the Health Department or they can be picked up at:
Also, please understand that the kind folks receiving your application have nothing to do with scheduling – Scheduling will be made according to severity and space, the week prior to the clinic.
Posted May 6, 2014 at 5:20 am by Tim Dustrude
Here’s some High School Sports info from Rod Turnbull, Athletic Director at the high school…
Spring teams have either entered into, or are about to begin the post season portion of their season. The post season for our teams will begin with a District Tournament. The play during the District 1 Tournament seeds the 1A teams from District 1 for advancement to the next level of post season, known as Tri-District. The District tournament is held because there are now nine 1A teams in District 1 that play in three different leagues.
There are five 1A, teams (Blaine, Nooksack, Meridian, Lynden Christian, and Mount Baker) in the Northwest Conference (NWC), one 1A team (FH) in the Northwest 1A/2B/1B conference, and three 1A teams (Coupeville, Kings, and South Whidbey) in the Cascade Conference. FH aligns with the five teams in the NWC by playing each other during the regular season to determine seeding into the District level of post season play.
For Friday Harbor, games VS the other five NWC teams “count”/ determine our post season seeding. The district tournaments look different logistically for some sports because of the sport involved, and because some 1A teams do not compete in all of the sports that we do. However, the outcome is the same, the District 1 tournament determines the number of teams/players and the order for which they move on to the Tri-District level.
Below is an update of each team’s playoff outline. For more information including playoff brackets you can go to www.nw1a2bathletics.com and select Post Season from the drop down menu. Continue Reading
Posted May 5, 2014 at 5:45 am by Tim Dustrude
Kelsey Green, Biological Field Technician for the Western Bluebird Reintroduction Project – Tim Dustrude photo
Kelsey Green is here on the island conducting a Western Bluebird study for the Ecostudies Institute, working with Kathleen Foley of the San Juan Preservation Trust as part of the Western Bluebird Reintroduction Project.
While Western Bluebirds used to thrive in our area, they have been in decline since the mid 1900’s and are now listed as a “Species of Greatest Conservation Need” by the Washington State Dept. of Fish & Wildlife. The reintroduction project – a joint effort by the Ecostudies Institute, the Preservation Trust, the American Bird Conservancy and other partners – has been working since 2007 to reestablish a breeding population of the migratory birds through a combined program of reintroduction, population monitoring and outreach.
Over a 5 year period, a small breeding population had been established but due to extremely cool and wet summers of 2011, 2012 and 2013, that population has declined dramatically. So far in 2014, only one breeding pair has been positively identified.
That’s where you come in – How can landowners help?
With the dramatic decline in population, the Ecostudies Institute has renewed efforts to ensure that Western Bluebirds persist on SJ Island, and that the sub-population contributes to a viable regional population.
As a heads up – Kelsey might get in touch with you to make arrangements to assess and monitor nest boxes on your land.
For more information, or to report sightings, please call Kelsey Green at (360) 936-2565 or Kathleen Foley at (360) 298-1856.
Posted May 5, 2014 at 5:40 am by Tim Dustrude
Mojo is this week’s Pet of the Week – Click for larger image – Contributed photo
Meet Mojo! He’s an energetic, 4-year old Labrador-Rottweiler mix who came to the shelter with his brother, “Nu-Nu” several weeks ago. Both boys are still available and looking for a new family.
Mojo and Nu-Nu are well-behaved boys, but did not have a great deal of socialization in their previous home, so they would greatly benefit from some professional training. They walk nicely on leads, and LOVE to swim!
Nu Nu – Brother of this week’s Pet of the Week – Click for larger image – Contributed photo
These boys would do well in a home without small children or cats where they have room to run and play.
Posted May 5, 2014 at 5:35 am by Tim Dustrude
Come join the San Juan Islands Conservation District for our Annual Report to the Community!
Hear about exciting new and enhanced programs and help us determine future goals for the coming year. Take home a free Energy Saver Kit! For more information email
sue [@] sjislandscd [.] org or call (360) 378-6621.
Our mission is to promote stewardship of the natural environment by implementing natural resource conservation practices. We work with landowners and residents to achieve their conservation goals through developing sustainable practices that protect and conserve soil, water, air and other natural resources. For more information about the San Juan Islands Conservation District and upcoming events please visit our website at www.sanjuanislandscd.org.
Posted May 5, 2014 at 5:05 am by Tim Dustrude
Skagit Valley College named a contender for $1 million Aspen Institute Prize
Skagit Valley College (SVC) has been named among the nation’s top 150 community colleges by the prestigious Aspen Institute and is now eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.
The Aspen Prize, awarded every two years, is the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among America’s community colleges. It recognizes exceptional student outcomes in four areas: student learning, certificate and degree completion, employment and earnings, and high levels of access and success for minority and low-income students.
The Aspen Institute evaluated all 1,655 community and technical colleges in the country for enrollment and student success data each college submits to the Department of Education as well as U.S. Census Bureau data. From that data, SVC ranked in the top two of all colleges for the number of degrees and/or certificates awarded to full-time students of color.
“Skagit Valley College is proud to be named among the nation’s top community colleges by the Aspen Institute,” said SVC President Dr. Thomas Keegan. “It recognizes the College’s commitment to serving our increasingly diverse student population. In addition, it affirms our work in coordinating student success strategies, using data to identify barriers to academic success, and helping more students achieve their educational goals.” Continue Reading
Posted May 4, 2014 at 7:00 pm by Tim Dustrude
Governor’s Outdoor Task Force Seeks Ideas from Recreationists, Businesses and Families
Governor Jay Inslee’s new Blue Ribbon Task Force on Parks and Outdoor Recreation is launching an online town hall to gather ideas about how to improve Washington’s outdoor recreation opportunities.
The Governor created the task force in February, calling together leaders in outdoor recreation across the state, to develop an action plan for increasing outdoor recreation activities and promoting recreation-related jobs and business. In his executive order, he asked the task force to complete its work by September 19.
Task force members would like to hear ideas from the public and have set up an online town hall, where people can share their ideas, anytime, anywhere. They also will take public comment in person at their next meeting, May 5, in Kent.
To participate in the online town hall, visit Engage Outdoor Washington. Through the online town hall, task force members will ask participants a series of questions during the coming weeks. Up first:
“People are really busy these days,” said Kaleen Cottingham, director of the Recreation and Conservation Office, which staffs the task force. “The online town halls allow individuals to participate whenever and wherever they are. So if someone wants to give us a creative idea while on a ski lift, while stopping for rest on a trail or from home after the kids are in bed, they can do so online. And we hope they do. It’s incredibly important for task force members to hear from people who recreate, the businesses that rely on the outdoors, and those who want to get outside but can’t.”
In addition to the online town hall, people can comment at the next meeting of the task force, which is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 5, at REI Corporate Headquarters, 6750 S. 228th Street, Kent.
The task force will discuss the structure of its subcommittees, view the online town hall and discuss outreach efforts. The public can share comments at 9:35 a.m. and again at 10:40 a.m. See the full agenda.
Posted May 4, 2014 at 5:50 am by Tim Dustrude
L to R: Merritt DeShon, Nash Nolan, Michael Bell, Isaiah Billings, ( Hope Oberreit not pictured) – Contributed photo
The San Juan Islands Special Olympics is excited to announce the addition of golf this summer to its list of local sports. Sign-ups will be 5:30, May 13th at Paradise Lanes Bowling Alley in Friday Harbor. Practices will begin early June at the San Juan Island Golf and Country Club and will run through the end of July, finishing at the NW regional tournament. Athletes must be 8 years and older to participate and those under 18 need to bring a parent to the meeting. This is such a wonderful opportunity for our local athletes and helps build confidence, new skills and friendships.
The Special Olympics of Washington offers a lot of support to local teams but a small amount of fundraising will allow us to supply extra equipment, team shirts and help with off-island travel. If you would like to help sponsor our local team, help coach or have any other questions about sign-ups please contact committee member Becky Mudd Bell, 370-7911 or
beckymuddbell [@] yahoo [.] com
Last fall the Bowling Team members had a such a great time. Every member of the team medaled in their bracket during the finals held in Mt. Vernon.
Posted May 4, 2014 at 5:40 am by Tim Dustrude
Let’s all go to the movies! The Drive-In at the Fairgrounds will begin its movie series next Friday, May 9th with “The Goonies” – A Spielberg Classic on the Big Screen.
An old seaport, caverns, treasure, and a pirate named “One-Eyed Willie” – Goonies serves up all this and more. The 1985 movie, starring Sean Astin and Josh Brolin, is great entertainment for families with teens.
See the original, before the sequel hits theaters!
All moviegoers will be entered into a drawing for a season movie pass. Movies start at dusk. Bring a picnic basket and hang out with your friends and neighbors before the movie.
Next movie in this series is May 23rd featuring the Disney favorite “Cars”
Admission: $5 each KIDS (5 and under) are FREE Family (up to 5) $20
Movies begin at Dusk
Posted May 4, 2014 at 5:30 am by Tim Dustrude
A note from the San Juan Preservation Trust…
We believe that the work we accomplish at the San Juan Preservation Trust is a pretty BIG deal. Over 15,000 acres preserved with 40 miles of shoreline on 20 islands is a pretty good track record, and we continue to make BIG deals.
Of course, our members are a critical part of our BIG deals. In fact, they are our heroes. If you’ve not had the chance to renew your support, or if you’ve not yet become a member, or if you’d simply like to make an additional gift, a BIG opportunity is fast approaching.
From midnight to midnight on May 6, your donation to the San Juan Preservation Trust via The Seattle Foundation’s GiveBIG campaign will be increased through a special matching fund.
Be a BIG Hero. Give BIG by going to sjpt.org and clicking on GiveBIG next Tuesday, May 6.
Thank you!
Posted May 4, 2014 at 5:01 am by Tim Dustrude
Jan from the PTA Board sends this note…
It bears repeating over and over: “Thank you Friday Harbor teachers!”
As we celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week May 5-9, we want to give a HUGE thank you to the dedicated teachers and staff that make our island children thrive. Our schools may be small compared to many, but success and true community overflows in so many big ways.
As author Helen Caldicott is quoted as saying, “Teachers, I believe, are the most responsible and important members of society because their professional efforts affect the fate of the earth.”
We are truly grateful to those that teach and inspire our children.
FHHS PTA BOARD
Tami Hayes, Trudy Loucks, Leslie Keyt, Jan Bollwinkel-Smith
Posted May 3, 2014 at 11:37 am by Tim Dustrude
Captain Hobbes brings us this week’s report…
Double Dorsals – Click for larger image – Captain Hobbes photo
Orca sightings have been a bit sparse this week — transient orcas have only been spotted twice by U.S. boats. Western Prince Tours found a nice group of very playful Pacific White Sided Dolphins, and we have had lots of reports of active minke whales in the area, along with large groups of feeding harbor porpoise. Other wildlife being seen includes seals, sea lions, Dall’s porpoise, eagles and seabirds. Cheers from Capt. Hobbes and the PWWA
Capt. Hobbes Buchanan
San Juan Island Whale & Wildlife Tours
Posted May 3, 2014 at 11:23 am by Tim Dustrude
Current Measles Surveillance
As of this date there are no new confirmed measles cases or any cases under investigation in San Juan County. Since March 28, there have been 6 confirmed cases of measles among San Juan County residents and one case in a Kitsap County resident that was contracted in San Juan County. All the known cases are now beyond the contagious period and won’t produce any new exposures. The San Juan County Health Department will continue to monitor for any further cases or symptoms during the next few weeks. The CDC recommends that we all monitor for possible measles cases for 42 days after the last day that a person was contagious in our area. The final day when we will call the outbreak over is May 25th.
There are, however, known measles cases in both Whatcom County and British Columbia. Therefore, Public Health officials still recommend measles vaccinations for all of our residents. It is prudent to carefully review your and your children’s immunization status so that you are protected against this highly contagious disease. Measles is vaccine-preventable which means that immunization at the proper time intervals will protect you from getting the disease. Continue Reading