$2.25
Vol. 2 No. 1 February 2011 After 20 Years, a Planning Victory In Long-Awaited Move, County Commissioners Approve Sub-Area Plan
By Edith Walden Skagit County. The result is that po- On January 18, the Skagit County tential aquaculture projects may still be Board of Commissioners unanimous- restricted, but must be reviewed on a ly voted to adopt the Guemes Island case-by-case basis. Sub-Area Plan as recommended by the One policy in the plan provides that Skagit County Planning Commission. a permanent, nine-member Guemes The plan is a culmination of 20 years Island Planning Advisory Committee of effort by two island committees. It be elected to provide communications provides guidance in managing future between island property owners/resi- development while maintaining the dents and government agencies regard- island’s natural resources. ing the sub-area plan. Later this year, Only one change was made to the Guemes Island property owners and plan as submitted by the Planning residents will be asked to elect the per- E DIT H W Commission. The language restricting manent committee to monitor imple- commercial aquaculture was changed mentation of the plan. A LD E N from “shall” to “should” in order to A copy of the plan is available comply with restrictions in the Shore- on the county’s home page at www Commissioner Ron Wesen signs the sub- line Management Master Program for .skagitcounty.net. area plan into law on January 18. Ferry Construction Moves to Next Phase Work Begins on Temporary Dock for Shutdown By Win Anderson Winning bidder Razz Con- The separate contract for sup- struction started piling work near plying a passenger-only ferry for the Guemes ferry landing January the two-month project will prob-
24. They are preparing for the in- Thea LaCross ably not be awarded until March 7, stallation of a temporary wharf and according to Ferry Manager Rachel dock to handle passenger traffic Beck. So far two bids have been re- when the car ferry is taken out of ceived: from Mystic Sea Charters of service starting March 28. Anacortes, for $227,660, and from Razz won the job of replacing San Juan Cruises of Bellingham, for the concrete girders and associated $293,000. She has assured island- work on both sides of the channel ers that whoever gets the bid, the over eight other companies. Their passenger ferry will have sufficient bid of $1.56 million was nearly enclosed capacity (minimum of 75 half a million dollars under the en- people) and meet all the Americans gineer’s estimate. The high bid was with Disabilities Act standards. $2.274 million, according to Proj- The concrete bridge girders on the Guemes side are Beck projects that the round ect Manager Jennifer Swanson. showing their age. (continued on page 4) 2 The Guemes Tide February 2011 Letters Subscribers: Don’t Creating a garden legacy above the temperature for the creosote Forget to Renew! To the Guemes community: to precipitate out on the chimney wall. I’m looking for folks who would Then close the damper to regulate your Have you renewed your subscrip- like to raise vegetables for their own fire. Once the chimney is hot, the low- tion to The Guemes Tide yet? If your la- consumption but have no place to do er fire will maintain it that way. If the bel reads “Expires 2011.02,” this is your it. I love to grow things and have been damper is closed too soon, the chim- last issue. raising my own vegetables in my “back ney does not get above the precipita- Stay up on the latest Guemes 40” for the last 25 years. The garden tion temperature of the creosote and news—send $20 today to the ad- has good soil and is sub-irrigated so you get problems. dress in the box be- you don’t have to worry about getting I think it is better to keep the low. (Don’t forget enough water. chimney clean all the time, rather than gift subscriptions Due to my recent health problems needing to use a brush to clean it. for your friends I am no longer able to garden, but I do —B. L. Anderson and family.) You want my garden to continue to pro- are a valued sub- duce for islanders who would enjoy Larsens like Tide, look forward scriber and and benefit from it. Or if anyone is in- Dear Tide staff, we’d love to terested in getting a group together to We so greatly appreciate and antici- keep you! set up a community garden, I would be pate The Guemes Tide. The articles are glad to contribute my garden site. well written, varied, beautifully edited, Contact me by e-mail (weigel@ and arranged attractively on the page. fidalgo.net) or regular mail (6150 West We look forward to returning in April Subscriptions are $20 a year (10 issues). Send your mailing address and a Shore Road). to our other home and to dear friends. check made out to The Guemes Tide to: The —Clifford “Kick” Weigel —Nancy and Les Larsen Guemes Tide, 7885 Guemes Island Road #1, Anacortes, WA 98221. Keep that chimney clean An invitation to lobby Dear editors, Dear Guemes friends, The Guemes Tide (USPS #014-902) is Recently you had an item in the pa- The time is approaching for Envi- published monthly except in January and August by the Guemes Island Historical per about keeping your chimney clean ronmental Lobby Day, sponsored by Society, Win Anderson, publisher, 7885 and using a brush (November 2010, People for Puget Sound. The event this Guemes Island Road #1, Anacortes, WA page 4). I would like to let you know year is on February 15. 98221. Periodical postage paid at Anacortes, Washington. what my grandfather used to do to I have attended this in the past and Contents © 2011 by The Guemes Tide keep his chimney clean. found it an excellent opportunity to except as otherwise noted. Bylined articles To help prevent creosote from col- meet our state senators and representa- and attributed artwork are published by lecting in your chimney, when you first tives face to face. More information is permission, with all rights retained by their creators. Opinions expressed here are not make your fire, burn two loads of wood available at the organization’s website necessarily those of the publisher. Unsolic- before you close down your draft, in (www.pugetsound.org). ited manuscripts and artwork dealing with order to heat your chimney quickly to —Eric Shen, Skagit Beat the Heat Guemes Island and its people are encour- aged but may not be returned. Business Manager: Juby Fouts Calendar Editor: Sophie Dobra Circulation Manager: Dyvon Havens Guemes Has a New EMT Community Editor: Holiday Matchett Design and Production: Justin James Editor Emeritus: Win Anderson Gerry Francis successfully completed his rigor- Editors: A LD E N Judith Horton, Thea LaCross, ous 16-week, 150-hour training course on Decem- Edith Walden ber 16 (see cover story in the October 2010 Tide). Managing Editor: Nick Allison
E DIT H W Other Members of the Publishing Team: He passed the National Registry of Emergency Bob Anderson, Nanette Cardon, Medical Technicians certification test on Decem- Karen Everett, Blaine LaCross ber 22. In January, the Washington Department of Website: Find back issues, subscription info, and more at www.guemestide.org Health’s Office of EMS and Trauma Systems certi- E-mail: [email protected] fied him to practice emergency medical care. [email protected] [email protected] Left: Gerry hits the books in preparation for his EMT POSTMASTER: Send address changes to certification test. The Guemes Tide, 7885 Guemes Island Road #1, Anacortes, WA 98221-9560 The Guemes Tide February 2011 3 Cost Reduction vs. Ferry Terminal Gets Official Dedication Fare Increase The Ferry Committee’s Saga Continues By Judith Horton The 30-year history of the island’s Ferry Committee (FC) has been marked by an ongoing dialog with the county about E D MCN A M EE maximizing efficiency and reducing costs versus raising fares. The committee’s position has long been that cost-cutting serves the best interests of both islanders and the county. Islanders who attended the FC’s public meeting last No- At the December 7 ribbon-cutting are, left to right: Project Man- vember 21—which was also attended by Public Works Direc- ager Jennifer Swanson, Henry Hash, Rachel Beck, Adam LeMieux tor Henry Hash and Ferry Manager Rachel Beck—are already (aide to Congressman Larsen), Uriel Ybarra (aide to Senator Mur- aware of the county’s proposal to raise fares by 25 percent, and ray), Commissioner Ken Dahlstedt, Kathleen Davis (of WSDOT), City of the FC’s proposals to reduce ferry operating costs by ap- Councilman Bill Turner, Mayor Dean Maxwell, Skagit County Con- struction Manager David Walde, Scott Flanary (Thiesen Architects), proximately $200,000—the amount cited as the deficit driv- Commissioner Sharon Dillon, Commissioner Ron Wesen, and Emily ing the fare increase (see the December/January Tide, page 5). Schuh (City of Anacortes). At the committee’s annual meeting on January 16, mem- bers presented the latest developments to about 50 islanders. wage for ferry crew members was raised, although FC mem- Chairman Glen Veal headed the three-hour meeting. ber Steve Orsini responded that the FC does not advocate re- He noted that the state ferry system is studying cost-cut- ducing crew wages and wages “are not part of the problem.” ting measures, but that—although the FC has had several dis- He added that there was some concern about the crew’s 176 cussions with Hash and Beck—Hash’s position as of January guaranteed monthly hours. 11 was that while cost-cutting is possible, it is not currently Veal stated, “We want a clear mandate from as many is- “on the table” and a rate increase will be implemented. landers as possible given such short notice.” He noted that Hash said the FC could come up with a counterproposal, the most unpopular proposal was clearly the double fares af- but cautioned that in order to prepare for implementing a rate ter 6:00 p.m., and that most in the audience were in favor of increase by May 1 (already postponed from January 1 at the cutting service. This, said Veal, would send a definite message FC’s request), a final decision must be made by January 28. to the county that islanders do not expect to “get more while As FC member Carl Cady explained, this left the FC with paying less.” only three options: accept the 25 percent fare increase; con- Veal said that the FC would present the audience’s priori- tinue pushing for cost-cutting measures (which they believed ties at the January 18 “open mike” session of the next com- would effectively green-light the increase); or come up with a missioners’ meeting and asked for a vote concerning a course counterproposal quickly, in time for the annual meeting. Here of action. The vast majority of those present asked that the is what they came up with. FC again present cutting costs as the top priority, even in the • Increase car/driver rates by one dollar—14 percent as op- face of Hash’s position, keeping their alternate proposal as posed to 25 a fallback. On January 18, FC members were joined in the • No increase for passenger and walk-on fares commissioner’s chambers by a handful of islanders carrying • Create a 20-punch car/driver card good for 90 days creative signage. • Make trucks equitable with other vehicles by increasing Veal told the Tide that he has since had a conversation fares proportionally to the deck space they occupy with Commissioner Wesen, who indicated that the timing of • Institute double fares for runs after 6:00 p.m. Monday- the fare increase was not as important as doing it right. As the Thursday (this would generate about $70,000) Tide went to press, Veal was awaiting a call from commission- • Reinstate the midnight runs on Friday and Saturday and ers to find out whether or when there will be a fare increase. the 10:00 p.m. run on Sunday (estimated to cost approxi- mately $19,000) New members nominated An agreement would be built into the proposal that the At the January 16 meeting, Anne Casperson and Howard county commissioners and Public Works start working to im- Pellett were nominated for the three-year position opening plement cost-cutting measures. when Dyvon Havens steps down. Ballots will be mailed to all registered voters in the Guemes precinct in mid-February. Mixed reactions The FC—a volunteer, unfunded organization—is request- At the meeting, the proposal produced mixed reactions ing donations to help defray the election’s $400 cost. Send and a lengthy discussion. Some participants expressed concern your check to the Guemes Island Ferry Committee, 7885 about the double fare for late weeknight runs, and others indi- Guemes Island Road, #6, Anacortes, WA 98221, or drop it cated they would rather see these runs eliminated. The hourly off at Anderson’s Store. 4 The Guemes Tide February 2011
FERRY CONSTRUCTION Yes, It Did Rain Cats South Shore Road did not fare as (continued from page 1) and Dogs well. Sloughing off the bluff caused fur- trip to and from Cap Sante Marina will ther collapse of the south lane near Cay- be scheduled about once per hour. As By Edith Walden ou Creek, leaving its edge only five feet of press time, she said the plan is for If it seemed especially wet to you in from the center line. At press time, the two deckhands to be aboard the vessel January, you weren’t imagining things. county was planning to close that short (which will be piloted by its own cap- On January 21, a weather station at the section of road immediately to com- tain) while the third crew person re- end of Nootka Lane operated by Dave mercial truck traffic, and hoped within mains at Cap Sante to assist passengers Wolf measured an inch of rain between about a month to reroute that section getting to and from their cars. A golf midnight and noon. inland several yards (which will require cart may be available. There will be no Fields and yards flooded, and ditches moving one resident’s mailboxes). ticket sales as the trip is free. The federal along Guemes Island Road flowed over As of January 28, the monthly rain- government, which is supplying $2.7 driveways. The entry to Cook’s Cove fall at Nootka Lane measured 6.12 million for the overall project, is picking was impassable, and dinghies lined up inches. The average January rainfall up the cost. along the bank were below the high-wa- for Anacortes is 3.7 inches. Anacortes ter mark. charts show the record was set at 8.14 Two sides, two treatments Thanks to the 12-inch raising of inches in January 1971. The daily rain- In terms of construction, Project Edens Road last summer, it did not fall record in 118 years was set on Feb- Manager Swanson told the Tide that seriously flood, although water in its ruary 16, 1949, when it rained 3 inches! the Anacortes side will be getting a ma- ditches was almost level with the road in To watch the weather statistics at the jor makeover, with the replacement of places and one observer reported a bit of Nootka Station, visit www.weatherlink ten pre-stressed concrete bridge gird- water on the road briefly on January 21. .com/user/osolobo. ers, bridge railing, and passenger railing, along with new end diaphragms and as- sociated electrical and mechanical work. Because the Guemes side takes much more weather battering, she explained, it is getting a different treatment. The approach-span concrete girders will be replaced with treated steel topped with concrete panels. Both approach spans, built in 1980, flunked state sufficiency ratings in re- cent years. The contract calls for the work to be complete by May 22. When regular ferry service resumes in May, there will be a total asphalt re- surface of the parking lot and hold- ing lanes on the Anacortes side. Bid- ding specifications were being drawn up as the Tide went to press. Beck said the WIN A ND ERSO N layout for parking and traffic flow pat- terns are still incomplete at this time.
Following the January 21 rainstorm, Ray Maichen and Aubre Adams examine the latest slump, which reaches to within five feet of South Shore Road’s center line. Guemes Connects Offers Outage Help Concerned about how to cope with the coming car-ferry shutdown? Guemes Connects, whose mission is to foster a network of support on Guemes, invites every- one to a meeting on Sunday, February 20, at 2:30 p.m. at the Hall to give your input on how they can best assist you during the outage. According to Connects member Lorraine Francis, getting groceries, transferring vehicles, and accessing on-island transportation are among the issues that will be discussed. A member of the fire department and the manager of Anderson’s General Store will also be present to answer questions. The Guemes Tide February 2011 5 Vendovi Island Saved for Posterity Mystery-Shrouded Isle Is Bought In the 170 years by Preservation Trust since, this sister is- By Karen Everett land to Lummi, When the San Juan Preservation Eliza, and Samish— Trust announced on December 15 that while plainly visible it was purchasing Vendovi Island, after from many parts of a highly publicized auction that failed Guemes—has re- SA N JU
to produce a sale, I felt a chill run down mained private and A N P RESER V my spine. mysterious. “Chanc- It wasn’t the amount of money they es are, if you’re alive
pledged—nearly $6.4 million—nor the now, you’ve never A fact that the island features 217 idyllic been on that island,” TI O N T R U S acres, 6 beaches, and 2.8 miles of pris- reflects trust director tine shoreline. It wasn’t the legacy of the Tim Seifert. The next step in the trust’s Fluke family, which had put the long- Few people alive today have visited Vendovi’s 217 pristine acres. private island on the market. plans is to conduct No, the chills came from the mystery an inventory of the island and its assets, [email protected], or me at of Vendovi, a mystery that calls to us including native plants and wildlife (as [email protected]. like the Sirens of Circe. well as the green box and the fortress of One perfect summer evening about the Madwomen). 23 years ago, my then-boyfriend, Bil- The trust’s purchase of Vendovi fol- Mountain Trail ly Everett, spun a terrifying yarn to a lows on the heels of several recent suc- Forges Ahead group of kids huddled by a North Beach cessful conservation projects. Jack Island fire. With a close-up view of Vendovi, (also close to Guemes), once a fox farm, Work on the trail to the top of one of the most closely guarded and pri- razed by fire, briefly the potential site of Guemes Mountain is progressing, ac- vate islands in all of the San Juans, Billy a condominium complex, was bought cording to Washington Trails Associa- had the kids mesmerized with the tale of by an anonymous Guemes Island bene- tion trail boss Pete Dewell. the “Madwomen of Vendovi” who flew factor and donated to the San Juan Pres- “We anticipate removing more over on a “green box” that lit up the wa- ervation Trust in 2007. Another anon- small alders from the trail area, install- ter with an eerie green glow. As phos- ymous benefactor donated $1 million ing a culvert in a very wet area, and phorescent waves lapped the shore, we towards the Save Guemes Mountain continuing to do ‘finish trail’ both could practically see the Madwomen of campaign in 2008, which surely sparked down below and as the trail progress- Vendovi crawling up towards our fire, the drive to garner the additional funds es,” says Dewell. “Finish trail” is go- fangs bared! needed to reach the $2.4 million goal. ing back over an area that has already That is not the first yarn to be spun A third and separate benefactor gave the been cleared and making it perfect. about Vendovi Island. That’s because its funds to save Vendovi, confirms Seifert. There are two work parties in Feb- history is very sketchy. Anyone with more information on ruary: the weekends of 12-13 and 26- According to Harry M. Majors’s Ex- Vendovi, whether historical or anecdot- 27. To sign up for any of these four ploring Washington, José María Narváez al, is encouraged to contact Tim Seifert days, go to www.wta.org and click on discovered and charted the yet-unnamed at [email protected], Win Anderson of Volunteer/Trail Work Parties. island in July 1791, and Peter Puget and the Guemes Island Historical Society at Joseph Whidbey of Vancouver’s expe- dition briefly visited it soon after. But it was the Wilkes Expedition that ulti- mately gave the island its name in 1841. It was named (in Anglicized form) for Ro Veidovi, a native who had been kid- napped in the Fiji Islands and was be- ing held captive on one of the expedi- tion’s ships. (Veidovi ultimately ended up in New York City, where he died. An account of his capture can be found at www.historycooperative.org/journals /cp/vol-08/no-02/lessons/.) 6 The Guemes Tide February 2011 CommunityHall Concert Update Gets “Strummy” Holiday Concert “What about a Guemes Island Delights Standing- concert series?” That was the ques- tion Wendy McDougal posed to Room-Only House the enthusiastic audience at the informal concert presented by two A chamber-music concert called musicians on January 14 at the “Holiday Tidbits” filled the Hall on Hall. Guitarist and songwriter L. December 23. Included were 15 short J. Booth from Wisconsin, a friend works by Telemann, Bach, Mozart, of Wendy’s in her pre-Guemes Handel, Leroy Anderson, and others. A life who is on a West Coast music packed house listened to violinists Nan- tour, played his special old-growth cy Bean (retired assistant concertmaster redwood top-face guitar and a tiny of the Philadelphia Orchestra) and her ukulele-sized instrument named “Strummy.” His song based on his adventures brother David Bean and violists Karie and misadventures getting onto the correct ferry brought many chuckles from the Prescott and her niece Malia Prescott. audience. Program announcer Lloyd Smith, a Violinist, vocalist, and songwriter Chris Kokesh from Portland, Oregon, played subtle fiddle accompaniments to Booth’s vigorous guitar picking and strumming. She also sang several of her own compositions accompanied by her guitar, and then L. J. joined her in several duets to finish off the concert. Library Adds Hours At its January 6 meeting, the Guemes Island Library Board decided to expand the hours when the library is open. Starting in March, the library will be open on Fridays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Other hours of operation are unchanged: Mondays and Wednesdays 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and Saturdays 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. temporarily sidelined cellist and hus- band of Nancy, provided off-the-cuff historical humor. Winter Reading One highlight was Nancy’s bravura If winter weather puts you in the Buddhist Meditation solo performance of J. S. Bach’s “Partita mood to curl up with a book, you Expanded in E Major,” while children in the au- might consider what some island book dience immediately recognized “Santa clubs are reading. Claus Is Coming to Town” and “Sleigh The Library Book Club, which meets Ride,” accompanied with bells and pony on the second Monday of each month cloppers by two more family members, at 8:00 p.m. at the Library, is reading Mikah and Nicholas, sons of David. Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Si- The concert concluded with an encore monson for February 14 and Wolf Hall performance of the Hallelujah chorus by Hillary Mantel for March 14. from Handel’s “Messiah.” The Brown Bag Book Club, which Island Sangha Zendo has expanded The concert was organized by is- meets the first Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. (see its meditation schedule to include Fri- lander Karie Prescott with the help of calendar for location), is reading Sir Ga- days from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. The ses- her family, Bob and Jacquie Prescott, wain and the Green Knight by J. R. R. sions include both sitting and walking Jon and Sandra Prescott, and Malia and Tolkien for March 1. meditation. All are welcome to attend. Blake Prescott. It is part of an ongoing The Men’s Book Club, which meets Dress comfortably for sitting. Contact Guemes Island Chamber Music Series. the second Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at the Jon Prescott for a brief orientation at Karie Prescott said at the opening of the Library, is reading A Walk Across America 929-6996 before coming. Group med- evening, “As long as you keep coming by Peter Jenkins for February 10. itation is also scheduled on Sundays to these concerts, we will keep giving These clubs are open to all readers. from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. them—two times a year, if possible.” The Guemes Tide February 2011 7 Learn to Knit A Birthday Party for the Peace Corps Charlotte Clifton and Jan Ebersole, returned Peace Corps volunteers, are hosting a 50th-birthday party for the Peace Corps on March 5 during Nation- Morna McEachern, a longtime Wal- al Peace Corps Month. Former volun- dorf handwork teacher, will teach a ba- teers and anyone interested in the Peace sic knitting class for ages 6 to 96. In two Corps are invited to attend from 4:00 to sessions, students will learn to make a 7:00 p.m. at Anderson’s General Store basic hat. The class will meet at the An- loft. Country flags and 8-by-11-inch Brenna Palmer-Perry visits with Santa. derson’s General Store loft February 13 photos are encouraged. Please RSVP for from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., with a follow- this event at 293-4548. up session on March 6 at 2:00 p.m. The Mr. and Mrs. Claus classes are free. Bring your own size 10.5 needles and bulky weight yarn, or Mor- Attend Community na will provide materials for $10. Soup Supper Space is limited; to sign up for the Dinner class, please call 293-4548 or come by Schedule With children excitedly watching for the Store. February 1: Jackie Hartwich leads the visit from Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus a discussion following a viewing of at the Hall, an afternoon of joyous ac- an interview with conductor Gustavo tivity was available for the young and Ferry Strike of ’76 Subject Dudamel and the Los Angeles Phil- young-at-heart on December 11. of History Meeting harmonic Orchestra playing “Cele- Activities such as making ornaments bracion!” and cards, face-painting, and Carol The three-week ferry strike during February 8: Gwen Hill shares her Harma reading books kept children oc- the summer of 1976 will be the subject travel experiences in Turkey. cupied at the Church while volunteers of an informal program at the Guemes February 15: Bill and Ann Tester- from the fire department strung lights Island Historical Society meeting Mon- man relate their 3,000-mile bicycle outside the Hall. day, February 14, at the Church. journey from San Diego, California, Lorraine Francis and Julie Pin- “The meeting is open to the public, to St. Augustine, Florida. gree cooked 55 pounds of turkey and and residents who recall the strike and February 22: Bob and Dan Snell 21 pounds of ham, and Anne Casper- its effect on the island are especially in- recount fishing adventures in Adak son and Emma Schroder prepared 45 vited to share their experiences,” said and Sand Point, Alaska. pounds of potatoes. With potluck con- Win Anderson, president. tributions to round out the meal, 115 islanders gathered to eat, socialize, and enjoy the entry of the Clauses. The Gathering Lunches Resume Betty Curtis played Christmas music and accompanied youngsters who sang Lunches on Thursdays at the Church resumed January 13. Guemes Connects and played tambourines and bells. Fol- organizes the lunches as an opportunity for islanders to gather and socialize over a lowing dinner, Ron Knowles accompa- tasty meal prepared by volunteer island cooks. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to nied carols with a harmonica, and sever- 12:15 p.m. for a suggested donation of $4.00. You can also have your blood pres- al adults formed an impromptu chorus. sure checked for free from 11:15 a.m. to noon. Meals are available to shut-ins by Kindness, generosity, and good will calling Lorraine Francis at 293-8364 by 9:30 a.m. reigned throughout the evening. Here are the cooks and menus for the month of February: Ann Cady was this year’s coordi- 2/3 Jan Iverson Jan’s Mystery Meal nator. Matt Buchman carved turkeys; 2/10 Barbee Cromack Meatball lasagna, green salad, and Toni Schmokel decorated the tables; Kit bread Harma handled dishwashing; the Com- 2/17 Sharon Hughlitt Pork roast, potatoes, gravy, apple munity Council cleaned up; CERT sauce, and vegetable provided juice; and Kelly Bush, Carol 2/24 Kathy Finks Teriyaki chicken, vegetable egg roll, Harma, Charlie Jackson, Martha Kline, rice, and fruit salad and Kathy Finks prepared the young Menus may change without notice. children for evening entertainment. Mr. and Mrs. Claus were anonymous guests. 8 The Guemes Tide February 2011 Women’s Fellowship Begins Its 98th Year When funds were needed, for a standard-size quilt. By 1975, they they held more bake sales. During were charging $75 for a quilt. There was O W SH IP the Depression when funds were always a backlog of quilts waiting, and short, the women made a quilt quilting lessons were offered to recruit for the minister in lieu of salary. more quilters. Today the group charg- In the 1940s, they paid $5 per es $250 to $350 for completing a quilt month for the new roof. In the (about $1.00 an hour).
T ES Y O F W M E N' S LL ’60s, they built the Magill Fellow- After nearly a hundred years, the ship room where the quilting is quilters fear their “art” will be lost. The now done. “new technology” of machine quilting OS C O U R T The group has also always sup- makes for quicker and cheaper work. P HO ported charities. In the ’50s, they While there are many more people do- sent layettes to Korean babies and ing piecework, it is harder to find those From left: Agnes Ashback, Madge Welch, Jane later to Japanese flood victims. who want hand quilting. Read, Hilma Henry, Susan Wintermantel, Rose In the ’60s, the women sewed ar- So far, the group has been lucky to Fraley, Terre Scappini, Carol Harma, Anne Passarelli, ticles for children in Vietnam. find people with heirloom quilt tops Peggy Pair, and Jacque Stutzman display a quilt These days the group supports they finished for Susan Briggs. local food banks, the Anacortes By Carol Harma Shelter, Boys and Girls Clubs, and Every Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. the Betty Crookes Guemes Gold Schol- the Women’s Fellowship meets at the arship Fund. They also make monthly Church to quilt and visit. In 1914, the visits to those from Guemes who now Ladies Aid, as the group was called then, live in residential facilities in Anacortes. began meeting and quilting at the new Community Center. Those women Will quilting survive? thought the Community Church, then Quilting has always been at the meeting at the schoolhouse, needed its core of the work of the Fellowship. At 92, Jane Read is the oldest and longest- own building. Through bake sales they The group is modeled on the old-time serving member (since 1947) of the Women’s Fellowship. raised $20 of the $40 needed to pur- “quilting bee,” in which women sit chase the land where the Church is now around a frame to stitch an intricate stored in boxes and under beds, and located. After the completion of the pattern that holds together the layers of they hope to continue to find quilts to building, they moved their weekly meet- the quilt. take them into their hundredth year ings to the Church, where they contin- While many quilts were original- in 2014. ued to quilt and support the Church. ly pieced by members, more and more If you have a quilt that needs finish- came from outside the community. ing, bring it to the group or call Agnes In 1946, the women charged $3.50 Ashback at 293-6979. All islanders are welcome to come quilt, to bring their own handwork, or to just join for a brown-bag lunch at noon. The Guemes Tide February 2011 9 Fire Department Help Buy the Jaws of Life Awarded Grants such as window posts. While this is By Mike Stamper good for making cars safer, it’s bad for Puget Sound Energy recently award- D E B EAR emergency responders on Guemes be- ed the Guemes Island Fire Department cause their current hand tools can’t a $2,500 grant to implement a group cut through these alloys. Even in old- communications system designed to er cars it takes much longer than it provide real-time information about should to get someone out. emergency incidents. This system will A set of hydraulic tools known as allow designated groups to be contacted spreaders, cutters, and rams is com- using multiple communication systems monly called the “Jaws of Life.” These including landline phones, cell phones, life-saving tools are used to extricate text messages, and e-mail. victims trapped in cars or under con- Initially, the system will be set up for crete and steel structures. It takes un- fire department personnel, the Guemes der five minutes to remove the roof Island Community Emergency Re- and roll the dash of a car with the sponse Team, and Guemes Connects Fire Chief Mike Stamper (left) and volunteer Jaws of Life, as opposed to 20 minutes volunteers. These groups have organized Olivia Snell try using the Jaws of Life. or more with current tools. a plan for a coordinated response to The fire department is sponsoring emergencies such as earthquakes, snow- By Lori Stamper a fund drive to raise $25,000 to pur- storms, windstorms, or toxic releases In emergency services there is chase these important tools. Fire de- from the refineries. Eventually, the sys- something called the “golden hour” partment volunteers believe that saving tem may expand to include all Guemes for trauma patients. Those who get to the life of just one victim more than Island residents and landowners. a hospital equipped to give them the makes up for the cost of these tools. care they need within an hour of the Please send donations to the Money for a new water tank traumatic event have a much higher Guemes Island Fire Department, 6310 The Washington Department of chance of survival. Guemes Island Road, Anacortes, WA Natural Resources has awarded the Many modern cars are made with 98221. Indicate on your check that the fire department a matching grant of ultra-hard, lightweight alloys to re- donation is intended for the Jaws of $2,155.34 to purchase a portable water inforce critical structural members, Life Campaign. tank and pump. This new equipment will expand the department’s ability to fight fires in remote locations and near Safety Tips from the Fire Department the shoreline. ••All current construction and remodels are now required to have carbon monoxide The new tank is easier to transport to detectors installed. remote locations than the current Port- ••First responders request that you keep a list of your current medications, health-care a-tank and it can hold the entire capac- providers, and emergency contacts on your refrigerator door. You can seal it in a zippered ity of the new water tender (4,000 gal- plastic bag for privacy. Forms are available at the Guemes Connects site (under Guemes lons). The new pump is easy to carry Island Organizations) on LineTime (www and deploy, and can be set up to provide .linetime.org), at the Gathering lunches, water directly from ponds or—along the or by calling Lorraine Francis at 293-8364. shoreline—from the Sound. Lorraine will also help anyone fill out the detailed form.
Department Seeks Non-Responding Volunteers Want to volunteer for the fire de- The positions available include: partment but can’t quite see yourself • Public information officer running into a burning building or deal- • Filing clerk ing with intense trauma incidents? The • Janitorial/cleaning department is looking for volunteers • Records maintenance who can help out with some very im- • Equipment maintenance portant jobs but would not be expected If you’re interested, please call to respond to incidents. Mike Stamper at 333-6297. 10 The Guemes Tide February 2011 GICCA Board Launches New Year
complete the Hall Pingree why she decided to run for the trim work was ap- GICCA board. Here is a portion of her proved, and con- e-mail reply:
T HEA L A C ROSS tinuing work on the “I have been part of the Guemes Schoolhouse Stage community as both a part- and full-time project was also dis- islander since 1979. My husband Don cussed. However, and I lived here full-time in the 1980s Tom Butler report- and took an active part in the commu- ed that the Capi- nity, as everyone did. In 2001, I came tal Fund could not back full-time after Don died, and it cover even the trim didn’t seem to me that there was as bid, so the board much participation in the Community approved an emer- Association. . . . I hope to help GICCA gency transfer from to become a more positive and inclusive operating funds to body. This is my community; I have a cover the trim work need to give back.” The GICCA board of trustees and officers pose at the January 20 (which will also use The next meeting is Thursday, meeting. In back (from left) are Tom Butler, Howard Pellett, Jim volunteer labor). March 17, at 7:00 p.m. The full agen- Nichol, and Gail Nicolls; in front are Harry Finks, Leslie Tysseling, The Tide asked da will be posted on www.linetime.org and Julie Pingree. new member Julie about a week prior to the meeting. By Thea LaCross Greenlaw-Junkman Wedding On January 20, seven board mem- bers and only eight community mem- Patrick Greenlaw, son of William bers attended the first 2011 meeting of and Gail Greenlaw of Guemes Island, the Guemes Island Community Center and Shelby Junkman, daughter of Association (GICCA). Tony and DeeAnn Junkman of Ana- The meeting began with the intro- cortes, were married December 4 at duction of the board: President Leslie Grand Willow Inn in Mount Vernon. Tysseling, Vice President Julie Pingree, Patrick’s brother Michael Greenlaw,
Secretary Harry Finks, and Treasurer Donny Kelly, and Aaron Savchenko A NN ROSE Tom Butler. Trustees are Howard Pellett, were groomsmen. The bride arrived Gail Nicolls, and Jim Nichol. at the wedding in a classic white Michael Herrbolt’s bid of $4,000 to 1935 Plymouth four-door sedan, which also bore the newly married couple from the wedding. Guests en- Patrick works as Teen Coordinator at joyed dinner and dancing following the Anacortes Boys and Girls Club, and the afternoon wedding. Shelby is a sergeant in the United States The couple went to Hawaii for Army at the Anacortes Armory. They their honeymoon. live in Anacortes.
The Guemes Tide February 2011 13
Not-Just-Dog Island Pets An Animal Haven Where Everybody Is a Star
doghouse. Once a tool shed, it now is furnished and decorated like a real house, replete with fire- place and framed pic- OS BY K ARE N E V ERE TT T tures over the mantel.
P HO Their Labrador Kona, a “reject” from Sum- mit Assistance Dogs in Anacortes, and Nicky, a pointer-Lab mix, are sure to find no cats in there: the sign out front Yes, this is a doghouse—complete with a "No Cats Donkeys Augie and Scout are smart, says Jeanie Fanton, says so! Allowed" sign and plush interior furniture. but “they hold a grudge.” From their high of six goats, the Fantons are now Church pastor Darrel Berg even brought By Karen Everett down to Jill, 11, who was rescued from 25 kids to “bless the animals,” a ceremo- There’s quite a cast of characters at a baby goat auction in Arlington, where ny new to all. Tim and Jeanie Fanton’s farm near West the goats were sold for their meat. And Guests lucky enough to be invited Beach, some of them straight out of Rick, the sheep, came from a sheep farm can stroll around outside the gorgeous Hollywood movies. in Bow, along with four brothers who home and outbuildings (designed and For example, their donkey Scout is have now passed away. built by the Fantons) and then take a the spitting image of the “don-kay” in Donkeys Augie and Scout are kept walk around their famous “Poop Loop,” the animated movie Shrek. And then separate from the goat and sheep. to enjoy the wonderful woods and pas- there’s Rick, their 12-year-old Border “They’re really smart, but they don’t mix tures. And stay alert, because you never Leicester sheep, the same breed as the with goats,” says Jeanie. “And they hold know what Hollywood star you might sheep in the movie Babe (in which a pig a grudge, too,” she laughs. see lounging around. was successfully trained to be a champi- It’s not just dogs who rate a pal- on sheepdog). ace. There’s also a “Duck House” on an idyllic little island in the middle of one of their ponds. The domesticated fowl that enjoy this retreat include Lucy, the goose, 12, and three mallard ducks, John, Margie, and Priscilla (dozens of wild ducks also skim the pond). Jeanie Brochures, Posters says her next plan is to get some chick- ens for eggs. Calendars, Postcards At another pond they once had gold- fish and catfish; Tim reports that the Desktop Publishing catfish grew to over two feet long be- fore the cattails in the pond left them Jill (left) and Rick share a meal. Business Cards, NCR’S without enough oxygen. They plan to While not all the animals resemble restock now that they’ve cleared out movie characters, to the Fantons—and the cattails. Speaking of cats, the Fan- Binding, Laminating to the hundreds who have visited the tons had only one, and Louie-Louie was farm over the past two decades—they his name. He is one of their beloved Tel: (360) 416-3333 are all stars in their own right. animals in their “Pet Cemetery” (it has Fax: (360) 416-0983 The Fantons have a long history of three headstones). 1726 Riverside Drive rescuing animals of all types and giv- Over the years, Tim and Jeanie have Mount Vernon, WA 98273 ing them the royal treatment on their hosted hundreds of kids of all ages at [email protected] 21-acre estate. Take for example, their their farm; one year, former Guemes www.copyandprintstore.com 14 The Guemes Tide February 2011 Travel Trainer Helps You Get From Here to There provide personal assistance to seniors at least a half-hour in advance. The ex- (65 or older) and people with disabili- act-change fare is $1.00 ($0.50 reduced HE TT TC ties, the free program provides a travel rate). Every fixed-route bus has a rack Y M A trainer to meet with clients at their for three bicycles and is equipped with homes to discuss their transit needs. a lift for a wheelchair or other mobility HO LID A The individualized training can device. range from a one-hour basic orienta- Dial-A-Ride service is also available tion about the fixed-route system to for those who are certified as eligible for an in-depth, hands-on training lasting Americans with Disabilities Act service several days until the client feels safe (that is, they are unable to use or navi- and comfortable using the bus. Call gate the fixed-route system because of 757-4433 to arrange for a meeting disability or condition). Call 757-4433 with a travel trainer or see www to make arrangements for this service. .skagittransit.org to learn more about the program. Island Crime Report Route 49 is the most conve- By Nick Allison nient route to downtown Anacortes from the Guemes Island ferry termi- On December 31, a Skagit County nal. It runs south on M Avenue and sheriff’s deputy responded to a request north on Commercial Avenue from from ferry staff to visit the county- owned ferry parking lot on Guemes Travel trainer Susan Libby can provide one-on- 12th Street to 32nd Street. This bus and check for “abandoned” vehicles, one instruction on using transit. will travel up to three-quarters of a mile off the route to designated bus meaning those whose registrations By Holiday Matchett stops for passengers unable to get to were out of date. Several vehicles were tagged by the deputy, and four were Skagit Transit Travel Trainer Susan the scheduled stops. To request a pick- reportedly towed several days later. Libby described her program at Soup up in Anacortes on 6th Street near the On the evening of January 1, ac- Supper on December 14. Designed to Guemes ferry terminal, call 757-4433 cording to Chief Criminal Depu- ty Tom Molitor, a resident on South Get to Seattle or Sea-Tac for $8.50 or Less Shore Road reported seeing a flashlight By Justin James the morning, you must catch the 7:10 a.m. beam in their yard and said they be- To take the least expensive public- 411W. Otherwise you have to wait for the lieved someone had rattled their back transportation route from the Guemes ferry 3:10 p.m. Everett Express. door. Deputies responded to the scene, to Seattle, plan your trip around the Everett From Skagit Station take the Everett including a K-9 team, but found no Express schedule (route 90X) that runs from Express (route 90X). The last morning bus suspect, no footprints, and no other Skagit Station in Mount Vernon to Everett going south leaves at 7:30 a.m. The fare is evidence of an intruder. Station. The 90X hours of operation south- $2.00 ($1.00 reduced rate). The Guemes-side ferry lot was the bound from Mount Vernon are 5:50 to 7:30 From Everett Station take the Sound site of two incidents on January 6 and a.m. and from 3:10 to 6:25 p.m. Monday Transit Express route 510 to Seattle. The 7, according to Molitor. On the 6th, through Friday. The schedule for the Everett fare is $3.00 ($2.50 for youth/ $1.50 for a parked vehicle’s battery was reported Connector route and other Skagit County senior or disabled). For schedules see www stolen. On the 7th, a different car was routes is at www.skagittransit.org. .soundtransit.org. broken into, and miscellaneous items Take Skagit Transit route 410, which If you want to continue to Sea-Tac including sunglasses and tools were re- has a scheduled pickup at the Guemes ferry Airport, get off the 510 bus at 5th and ported missing. No suspects were ap- at 6:52 a.m. and 7:52 a.m. Any other time is Pine and walk one block southwest to the prehended and the missing items have by request only: call 757-4433 at least half Westlake light rail station at 4th and Pine, not been recovered. an hour in advance. The stop is at the top of where the train will take you to the airport. On the morning of January 5, the the hill from the ferry landing on 6th Street. If you use an ORCA card to get on the 510 Anacortes-side ferry line was the scene The fare is $1.00 ($0.50 reduced rate). Get bus in Everett, you can use it to transfer to of a physical confrontation between off at March’s Point. the light-rail train within two hours. If you two men, one from Guemes and one Take the Island Connector (route pay cash for the 510, you will pay $2.50 for from Anacortes, over an unresolved 411W) from March’s Point to Skagit Station. the train. dispute. Anacortes police responded The fare is free. If you want to catch the last The Link Light Rail schedule can be and cited the Anacortes resident for Everett Express leaving Skagit Station in found at www.soundtransit.org. disorderly conduct. The Guemes Tide February 2011 15
Beachcombing safely overnight. managing editor of the Tide and new- with Win Anderson “As I had no room in the safe for comer to an obscure island that is now so much coin, I carried it upstairs to famous in Missoula). Things were a little different my private apartments and handed the back then sack without warning to my wife. Be- Keeping up the good fight I just ran across another anecdote ing taken by surprise by the unexpect- Our Ferry Committee, now more involving Guemes pioneer John Edens, ed weight, the sack slipped from her than 35 years old, has outlasted doz- Skagit and Whatcom counties’ most hand . . . scattering the $1,500 in ev- ens of public officials and staffers, and prominent citizen of the early years. ery direction. The joke was on my wife with each change in the administration, This nugget comes but I had to get down on committee members attempt to pro- from the fine book my knees and help gather vide a free history lesson on how and Skagit Memories, pub- in the shekels, until every why we got where we are. Currently lished in 1976 by the dollar was accounted for. this explanation includes why we don’t Skagit County Histori- “Now what will appear need a 25 percent raise in fares. It is a cal Society (available at singular in this day continuing struggle. the Anacortes Museum of graft and chicanery is The FC wants the county to consid- and Anderson’s Gener- that Mr. Edens did not er cost cutting before raising the fares al Store). The piece was ask for a receipt for the so drastically. (The basic car-and-driver written for the Mount $1,500. . . . I never gave fare would jump to $9 in winter and Vernon Argus in 1913 a receipt or a scratch of a $11 in summer.) by John Paul McGlinn, pen to show that there was The Board of County Commis- owner of the McGlinn a dollar deposited with sioners thinks the only way to cut costs House hotel in La Conner, me,” reminisced McGlinn. would be to cut service, which they are founded in 1877. The ref- loath to do. Obviously you can’t shut erenced event is not dated, John Edens Small world department the ferry down one day per week, even but is believed to have tak- “It’s on Guemes Island, but I sup- in this economy. en place in the late 1880s. pose you’ve never heard of that,” re- But, surprise! A vast majority of The hotel held “a peculiar economic plied Wen Beardsley, answering an idle the audience of 65 at the January FC position in the administration of county query posed by his passenger, Janet Al- public meeting indicated they would affairs. It was a jail, a house of detention lison. Their group was on a January ski happily suffer through a cut in service, for the insane . . . a hospital for the sick outing near Missoula, Montana. She starting by eliminating the 8:30 p.m. and a poor house for the indigent.” had noticed the Anderson’s Store name runs Monday through Thursday. It was also the bank, “not only for on the back of Wen’s cap. He had the The problem is, according to FC the traveling public, but also for the cap, he revealed, because his cousin Chairman Glen Veal, that if raising gamblers and sure-thing men who op- owns the store. fares is the first step taken to meet the erated . . . in one of the saloons of the Serendipity! fare recovery model, cost cutting will town.” Enter Senator John J. Edens, Not only had Janet heard of never find its way back on the table. operator of a logging camp on Guemes Guemes Island, she had lunch at the And with three-plus decades on the Island, handing McGlinn a payroll sack store just two months earlier while vis- committee, he knows history backs containing 1,500 silver dollars to keep iting brother Nick (that’s Nick Allison, him up. 16 The Guemes Tide February 2011 Feld Sent to Western State for Treatment At a competency hearing December against him and to assist in his own de- scheduled for February 24. 3, Skagit County Superior Court Judge fense, and/or to assess how his compe- Feld has been incarcerated in Skagit John M. Meyer found Charles Feld in- tency can be restored. WSH was further County Jail since April 3. He is charged competent to stand trial. He ordered ordered to diagnose Feld’s condition and with arson, multiple counts of attempt- him committed to Western State Hos- to determine whether he poses a danger ed homicide, and other felonies as a re- pital (WSH) for evaluation and treat- to others and to evaluate his likelihood sult of an incident on Guemes Island. ment for up to 90 days. Feld began his of committing criminal acts. (For a full description of the incident, confinement there on December 28. A hearing to review this evaluation is see the May 2010 issue of the Tide.) According to court documents, Feld addressed the judge as “black robe Annual Christmas Bird Count on Guemes whore,” called Prosecuting Attorney By Holiday Matchett Rich Weyrich a liar, and announced or- The Christmas Bird Count on ders for the public execution of court Guemes—part of the Audubon Soci- B RE ND A CUNNING HA M officials. Feld said he refuses to take ety’s annual nationwide census—began antipsychotic medication and refused at 8:00 a.m. on the crisp, clear morn- representation by his court-appointed ing of January 2. Nine birders from attorney Wes Richards, preferring to the Skagit area, including four Guemi- represent himself. ans, split into three teams to cover as Richards testified that Feld’s condi- much of the island on foot as possible tion has deteriorated since June 2 when and to identify and count every bird Cunningham, and John Day. a WSH report evaluated Feld as com- seen over eight hours. Guemes birders Tim and Brenda have participated petent to stand trial but having a “psy- Nick Allison, Dyvon Havens, and Bob in the Guemes count for 14 years, and chotic disorder not otherwise specified.” and Holiday Matchett, and visitors expressed pleasure at the 64 species The judge’s order directs WSH to Tony Allison and Ani Gurnee worked and 1,199 individual birds counted treat Feld until he regains the compe- with team leaders Tim Manns, Brenda this year. tency to understand the proceedings Things to remember about Anderson’s Store this winter Happy Hour 4 to 7 pm on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday Yo’s specials are enticing and always satisfy. Our baked goods are made from scratch. Free wifi on premises We now have coffee cards for our loyal customers. Anderson’s General Store at Mangan’s Landing, Guemes Island (360) 293-4548 www.guemesislandstore.com Closed Tuesdays until March 22nd The Guemes Tide February 2011 17 Tips From Guemes Gardeners Compiler’s note: This is the time of or 507-334-1623). year when Northwest gardeners need hope Both these companies also carry and inspiration, so I asked two for their three of Kick’s other favorite vegetable favorite catalogs and any particular species varieties. For lettuce, Summer Glory or varieties they swear by. Blend or Gourmet Blend each contain Please participate in the gardening- 7-10 varieties of loose-leaf lettuce and tips article for the March issue: send in the provide “a showcase of color.” He favors names of any gardeners you would like to Blue Lake Bush Beans because “they’re see featured (including yourself) and any more productive and the beans are just topics you’d like covered to editorial@ the right size to pickle and can.” Kick’s guemestide.org. —Judith Horton favorite cucumber is Oriental Express Kick Weigel Burpless Hybrid, which “has the fla- Clifford “Kick” Weigel, who has vor and texture of an English cuke. No been working his West Shore Road gar- seeds, you don’t have to peel them, and den for 25 years, is currently looking they’re nice and tender.” for someone to whom he can “pass the He can also order his four favorites Carol Pellett is looking forward to getting started in her greenhouse. from Park Seed Company, established in O N T 1868 (www.parkseed.com or 800-845- 3369). He orders from so many differ- ent catalogs because “it’s good to have more than one source for seeds you just Happy Birthday, Agnes! can’t do without, because sometimes a OS BY JUDIT H HOR T whole crop will fail at one nursery or in P HO one part of the country.” Carol Pellett Carol has been gardening on Guemes for 15 years. She faces special challenges gardening on North Shore near the wetlands. “There seems to be JUDY F EES a cold wind that always blows over our garden, and there are some things I just can’t grow, such as blueberries,” Carol says. However, she has about 15 fruit Agnes Ashback (left) celebrated her 90th Kick Weigel poses in his old gardening hat . trees, many vegetables, and other kinds birthday with two other nonagenarians, of berries. Frances Hyland (center) and Jane Read, torch” (see his letter on page 2). He has Carol favors the Abundant Life Seed along with other friends and neighbors at always grown most of his own vegeta- Catalog (www.abundantlifeseeds.com or a luncheon hosted by Lorraine Francis on bles, including putting up much of his 541-767-9606). The company doesn’t December 30. harvest to enjoy over the winter. carry any genetically modified seeds. Kick has used local seed whenever They also encourage you to save your Birthdays possible, so likes ordering from the Ter- own seeds to keep your favorite varieties (Recognition for those 18 and under ritorial Seed Company. He says you can going. And more of their seeds germi- and the chronologically gifted) pick up one of their catalogs for free at nate, she adds. Felix Edmunds turns 79 on Ace Hardware. “I’ve also had very good luck with February 14. However, Territorial doesn’t carry fruit trees and edible ground covers Adam Bosch turns 7 and Nicholas his favorite variety of kohlrabi, Grand from Raintree Nursery (800-391-8892 Danielson turns 17 on February 19. Duke. “Kohlrabi is my favorite vegeta- or www.raintreenursery.com) that are Henry Michael Greenlaw turns 1 on ble,” he says, “and I’m very particular designed specifically for Western Wash- February 21. about it because many varieties tend to ington,” Carol says. “One of my favor- Grace Jennings turns 15 on get woody.” Kick orders “the Duke” ites is the Akane apple, which is pest- February 23. either from the Burgess Seed and Plant free and scab-resistant. Although they’re Lalon Agnes McLean turns 6 on Company (at www.eburgess.com or not as large and not as good a keeper as February 24. 309-662-7761) or from Farmer’s Seed some other varieties, they have a great Katherine Butler turns 10 on February 26. Casey Funk turns 13 on February 28. and Nursery (at www.farmerseed.com flavor and I use them for everything.” 18 The Guemes Tide February 2011 • in memoriam • Don and Helene Taylor The Rev. Donald W. Taylor and his wife of 64 years, Helene Marian Berentson Taylor, passed away 17 days apart in December following extend- ed illnesses. Helene died on December 8 at the age of 84. She was born at home in Anacortes on September 10, 1926, to Martha and Marion Berentson. She graduated from Anacortes High School in 1944 and joined the war effort with a job at the Whidbey Island Naval Station. Donald died December 25 at the age of 85. He was born at home in An- acortes July 2, 1925, to Marjorie and Frank Taylor. After graduating from Anacortes High in 1943, he entered the Navy as quartermaster 2nd class. Don and Helene were married July 20, 1946. Don graduated in fisheries biology from the University of Washington and worked for the State Depart- ment of Fisheries until 1954 when the family moved to Minneapolis. There Don attended Luther Theological Seminary and was ordained in 1957. Don and Helene loved their time on Guemes Island, which began for Don at the age of four when his parents began camp- ing summers on the property Frank eventually purchased in 1940. Don, Helene, and their family used the beach cabin for sev- eral years and built a permanent home on the same property in the early 1970s. The couple served congregations in Bellingham; Sandpoint, Idaho; Portland; Everett; Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma; and aboard the M/V Christian from Puget Sound to Alaska. In retirement Don served as interim minister to the Guemes Island Community Church. He also skippered a research vessel to the Arctic. Helene’s family survivors include brothers Duane (Joanne) Berentson and James (LaVonne) Berentson and sister-in-law Ver- na Berentson. Don and Helene’s surviving family includes daughters Julie (James) Aageson, Marcia (Franklin) Wilson, and Lau- rie (Peter) VanderWeyst; son Martin Taylor; and 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. The family wished to give special thanks to Dr. Kevin Harris and Dr. Kiarash Kojouri for their care and compassionate hearts. Memorials may be made to Anacortes Lutheran Church, Lutheran World Relief, or Hospice of the Northwest. Don and Helene were buried at Edens Cemetery followed by services at Anacortes Lutheran Church. Arrangements were by Evans Funeral Chapel.
Kurt Thompson Kurt Marshfield Thompson, 70, died on Decem- ber 22 at Island Hospital. He was born April 10, 1940, to Donald and Marie Thompson (Swinton) in Seattle. He grew up in Los Angeles and received his degree in geology at the University of Puget Sound. His career path “led him down more artistic roads,” said a family member, “including a 30-year career as a technical illustrator and writer with the Boeing Company.” In retirement in 1995, he moved to Guemes near the home of his father, Don, and stepmother, Bette (both now deceased). Kurt loved sailing and the quiet of Guemes, where he pursued his many inter- ests, including Civil War history—especially books by his great-great-grandfather, New York Times war correspondent William Swinton. Survivors include son Colin Thompson, daughter Kelly Thompson, sisters Gale Handley and Christine Earl, and three grandchildren. The family wishes to thank friends Emma and Rob Schroder and Carlann Copps for lending hands and hearts during his life and after. At Kurt’s request there were no public services. His ashes were spread at sea by family and friends. The Guemes Tide February 2011 19 Steve Schmokel
Steven A. Schmokel, a 17-year resident Agent for of Guemes Island, died December 30 at 67 Stevens Van Lines with his wife, Toni, by his side. His death DOT# 72029 came after a two-year battle with amyo- HG#61459 trophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Local Moving • Interisland • Interstate • Storage Gehrig’s Disease or ALS. 9889 Padilla Heights Rd. #3 • Anacortes WA 98221 Steve was born in Portland, Oregon, to 360-588-1378 Carol and Mike Schmokel on July 8, 1943. www.vikingmovingservice.com He graduated from Oregon State Univer- sity with a degree in forestry, which led to opportunities to pursue his passion for fly- ing. He worked as a smokejumper in Sis- ters, Oregon; flew a World War II–vintage B-17, converted for water-bombing fires, in Montana; and was a bush pilot in Alas- ka. Later he served as a captain with Cascade Air and other commercial airlines. He retired from American Airlines in 2003. In retirement he worked for Home Depot. Steve and Tonia “Toni” Filliol were married January 1, 1988, in Yakima. Toni, a longtime summer resident of Guemes, introduced Steve to the island. They moved to their new home on Section Avenue in 1994. Steve was active in island life, having served two terms on the Guemes Island Community Center Association board. He also enjoyed bicycling, boating, crab- bing, hiking, and reading. “Those who knew Steve during his illness learned a lesson in patience, persever- ance, and grace,” says Toni. “The manner in which he dealt with this disease was an inspiration to those around him.” Besides his wife of 23 years, survivors include son Andrew “Andy” Schmokel, brothers Chuck (Sue) and Stan (Susan) Schmokel, sister Marilyn (David) Dent, parents-in-law Norm and Joanne Nashem of Guemes, and stepchildren Pam Salter, T. J. John, Janiene Wiehe, and Corinda John-Lucas. A celebration of Steve’s life will be held Febraury 13 at 1:30 p.m. at the Church. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the ALS Evergreen Chapter in Kent, Guemes Connects, Hospice of the Northwest, or the Humane Society.
Beverly Elvebak Beverly Jean Elvebak, 84, a longtime summer resi- dent of Guemes Island, died at Life Care Center in Sedro Woolley on December 22. She was born July 6, 1926, in Bellingham to Fred and Ruby Rothenbuhler and grew up in Sedro Woolley. She married Harold Elvebak in 1948 and they lived on a house on the pier at San De Fuca until 1956, when they moved to nearby Oak Harbor. Besides camping, fishing, and many sports, Beverly loved her time on Guemes collecting agates and surrounding herself with family. In 1971 Beverly and Harold bought Island Paint & Glass. She aggressively grew the business until her retirement in 1990. Bev was a charter member and past president of Soroptomist International of Oak Harbor and a member of the Lutheran Church, Yacht Club, and Ameri- can Legion. Survivors include son Mel (Deanna) Elvebak, daughter Pam (Glenn) Smith, and four grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Heart of a Woman or the Mammogram Fund at Soroptomist International in Oak Harbor. Services were in the care of Burley Fu- neral Chapel. Periodical Postage PAID Anacortes, WA 98221 7885 Guemes Island Road #1 Permit #14902 Anacortes, WA 98221
In This Issue Letters 2 Ferry Committee News 3 Community Update 6-7 Calendar 11-12 Want the Tide to flow into your Beachcombing 15 mailbox? Subscriptions are $20 Garden Tips 17 per year (10 issues). Our address is on page 2.
Looking Back (From the files of the Guemes Island Historical Society) Five Years Ago Ninety-One Years Ago Headline: Department of • MEMORY’S TRIBUTE • Natural Resources Buys Secret Departed Friends Who Harbor School Land on Cy- Bowed Untimely to the press Silent Reaper Paul Beaudet begins a sec- The funeral wing of ond term as Community Cen- the death raven has never ter president. cast a more sable and uni- New Guemes Resort man- versal pall of sadness over agers plan no major changes the community than that and vow to retain its “rustic, which occurred on Febru- bucolic appearance.” ary 9th and 11th, 1920, Commissioner Ted Ander- when R. E. Woodburn and son says Ferry Committee “no his beloved sister, Ruby longer useful.” Myrtle Woodburn Kack, —The Evening Star succumbed in the ravishes February 2006 Rogers’s store, on a wharf, possibly at the former Blackington Land- of Spanish Influenza and ing, west of current ferry landing. Photo from about 1921. From left passed almost hand in hand Ten Years Ago are Art McGill, George Kingston, and Leonard Rogers, proprietor. into the Great White Biv- Headline: Ferry Traffic ouac where mortals weep no Soars, No Fare Increase This Year from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., says Pub- more. (Editors’ note: During its two- Dr. Richard Threet’s analysis of lic Works ferry coordinator Charles year run the 1918 flu pandemic took up Guemes Island hydrology summarized. Tewalt. to 100 million lives worldwide, mostly Fire Department board of commis- Four-year struggle to build a store healthy young adults.) sioners passes resolution authorizing a at Mangan’s Landing reaches a criti- • Lost Large Jackpot • token allowance for volunteers attend- cal point with scheduled meeting of the While shopping in Anacortes last ing drills. Planning Commission. Saturday, G. L. Rogers, the popu- —The Evening Star Centenarian Dottie Graham, asked lar Guemes Island merchant (owner, February 2001 for the key to her longevity, replied, “I Guemes Store) had the bad luck to don’t know, but it had nothing to do lose his pocketbook containing $200 Fifteen Years Ago with being good.” in checks and about $70 in bills. Increased use of the ferry may result —The Evening Star —Charley Gant’s Guemes in double shifts and a schedule increased February 1996 Beachcomber, February 1920