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Vol. 3 No. 5 June 2012 A Long, Long Night of Fire Volunteers Prevent Total Loss of Clark Point Residence By Edith Walden An incredible save GIFD Fire Chief Mike Stamp- Editors’ note: Details about the er and Assistant Fire Chief Gerry Clark Point fire on May 20–21, Francis arrived at the fire at 2:56 and about the residence and its p.m. with fire rigs. Five other owners, have been the subject of GIFD responders arrived shortly much conversation and speculation. after. They found the area around TheTide has interviewed more the kitchen chimney in the south than 30 participants, officials, and wing fully engulfed in flames that experts in an attempt to present an had broken through the roof. accurate account of the event. The Chief Stamper called for mutu- owner of the residence requested al aid from the Anacortes, Mount that he not be identified; we are Erie, and District 13 fire depart- respecting his wishes. All informa- ments. Their firefighters, a pump- tion not attributed to a specific er, tender, and ladder truck arrived person has been checked with at least between 3:20 and 3:55 p.m. two knowledgeable sources. We are Because GIFD had conduct- extremely grateful to the Guemes ed several previous walk-throughs Island Fire Department spokes- and a drill at the property as re- persons for their generous help and cently as last year, firefighters were cooperation. familiar with its layout and con- struction. Chief Stamper, incident A fire in the 4100 block of commander throughout the fire, Clark Point Road was reported at sent Nancy White, Tim Powell, 2:42 p.m. on Sunday, May 20. By and Francis into the south wing the time the fire was completely out to be sure a critical firewall was at about 10 the next morning, 13 sealed. They confirmed that the fire districts had responded to the fire was actively burning overhead fire, about 100 emergency respond- in the master bedroom area of the ers had attended the scene, at least south wing. Top: By late afternoon nearly half the house was in 23 emergency vehicles had been Using two ladders, Powell as- flames. Bottom: The great room lay in ruins after the fire. transported on the ferry, and about cended the steep, 12/12-pitch, ce- 120 gallons of foam and at least 261,000 gallons of water had dar-shake roof and attempted to break through the attic vents been sprayed on the residence. to allow access for hoses to knock the fire out in the attic. The The 8 occupants of the residence, a dog, some 20 chicks, attempt failed because of the configuration of the gables. and 2 goslings were safe. No one was injured. Computers With this turn of events, the firefighting focus shifted and office equipment were rescued, about 50 percent of the from trying to put the fire out to trying to contain it. A team 11,242-square-foot structure remained salvageable, and the was sent into the dining room area to attempt to confine the heroic volunteer firefighters and auxiliary of the Guemes Is- fire to the south wing. They were driven out when the fire land Fire Department (GIFD) were proud and exhausted. (continued on page 8) 2 The Guemes Tide June 2012 Letters Correction It’s up to us to care ed. Imagine if the Hall had more stor- To the editors, age. And there are many other creative In the May issue of the Tide The community potluck and tal- “imaginings” that could be pursued. (pages 9 and 14) we incorrect- ent show on May 12, sponsored by the I think we can do better—and be ly reported that the jury in the Guemes Island Community Center As- more—than we have been. It’s up to Charles Feld trial returned four sociation (GICCA), gave us great fun, each of us to care a little more about our counts of firearm enhancement food, and entertainment to enjoy with grand old Hall. Let’s make our island charges. The jury returned five our neighbors. We enjoy these events even better. —Emma Schroder such charges. so much, but I wonder if we make the We regret the error. connection that without our communi- Thanks from Roz ty Hall—and GICCA to manage it—we Dear fellow Guemians, Mission statement: The Guemes Tide is would have no place to hold them. I want to thank you all for your help published to connect, inform, amuse, serve, Our community is bound by a with expenses for my cancer treatments. and inspire our island community. shoreline. We know in times of need Because of your generosity the funding Subscriptions are $20 a year (10 issues). or disaster, for fundraisers, or when we target was met, allowing me to focus on Subscribe online at www.guemestide.org; or need space to hold an event, we have healing rather than financial matters, send your mailing address and a check made out to The Guemes Tide to: The Guemes the Hall (and the Church). I feel that as and to have additional treatments which Tide, 7885 Guemes Island Road #1, Ana- a community we don’t show enough ap- gave me the boost I needed. cortes, WA 98221. preciation of GICCA and our Hall. Thank you too for all your prayers Advertising: Space reservations due the GICCA has two more fundraisers and thoughtful cards and notes. They 15th of the month preceding issue date; camera-ready artwork due the 22nd. Con- this summer: the Guemes Garden Tour have been so uplifting. I could feel the tact [email protected]. and the Fourth of July hotdog sale. We love 2,000 miles away in Reno. The Guemes Tide (USPS #014-902) is need people to help. With deep appreciation to this com- published monthly except in January and Some people stay away from GICCA munity and especially to Marianne Koo- August by the Guemes Island Historical because there used to be so much con- iman and to Juby Fouts for their time Society, Win Anderson, publisher, 7885 Guemes Island Road #1, Anacortes, WA tention. It’s not like that anymore, but it and effort in organizing and carrying 98221. Periodical postage paid at Anacortes, may take time for people to see that. out this appeal. Love and blessings, Washington. I think every fundraiser held at the —Roz Glasser Contents © 2012 by The Guemes Tide Hall that does not benefit GICCA- except as otherwise noted. Bylined articles “Well done” to Walden and attributed artwork are published by sponsored projects should donate a por- permission, with all rights retained by their tion of the proceeds towards maintain- Dear editors, creators. Opinions expressed here are not ing the Hall. I have to tell you how impressed I necessarily those of the publisher. Unsolic- By adopting this idea, instead of ited manuscripts and artwork dealing with was by Edith Walden’s article on the Guemes Island and its people are encour- “just getting by” GICCA might be able Feld trial [May issue, page 9]. If there aged but may not be returned. to do a lot more. Imagine the fun we’ll were such a thing as the Guemes Pulit- Advertising Manager: Juby Fouts have when the park stage is complet- zer prize, I’d award it to her! Business Manager: Thea LaCross The Feld story is complex and sen- Calendar Editor: Lynn Prewitt Circulation Manager: Dyvon Havens sitive. Edith did a masterful job of re- Contributing Editors: Judith Horton, search and dispassionate fact telling, and Thea LaCross, Holiday Matchett yet added just the right amount of sen- Design and Production: Nick Allison, Thea LaCross sible “judgment” to make it relevant. Editor Emeritus: Win Anderson I, and I’m sure many others, appre- Managing Editors: Nick Allison, Edith ciate the hours she must have spent get- Walden Other Members of the Publishing Team: ting that story “just right.” Well done! Bob Anderson, Karen Everett, Blaine —Sandy McKean LaCross, Tom Murphy, Anne Passarelli Website: Find back issues, subscription info, More on mystery bullet and more at www.guemestide.org. Email: [email protected] Dear editor, [email protected] Potential explanation for “Bullet in a [email protected] [email protected] Bowl” (see April issue, page 2): Phone: Leave message at 299-9999. Apple tree + autumn + abundunt deer = venison for winter. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to —Scott Ramsay The Guemes Tide, 7885 Guemes Island Road #1, Anacortes, WA 98221-9560 The Guemes Tide June 2012 3 Ferry Information Update 19, July 10, July 24, August 14, August 28, and September 18. By Judith Horton The staff tries to schedule mainte- A lot of information has nance, such as oil changes, so that a sec- recently been released from ond run can still occur after the 11:15 the office of Ferry Opera- a.m. run. On days when that isn’t pos- tions Division Manager Ra- sible, the “No 2nd 11:15 Sailing” sign chel Beck. It’s summarized will be hung at the ferry landing. here, and available in detail at skagitcounty.net/ferry Survey results carol steffy and at linetime.org. The Ferry Customer Satisfaction Surveys sent out in March have now Peak season been tabulated by WSU Skagit County Peak-season rates and Extension. A comprehensive list of re- sailing schedule are in ef- sults is available on linetime.org and at fect now through September 30. Fare ticket kiosk for the terminal. “We are skagitcounty.net/ferry. and schedule information are inserted having problems with the software and According to Beck, the survey, con- in this issue, and available online and at are putting pressure on the vendor to re- ducted entirely in-house with help from the Anacortes terminal. Riders are urged solve the issues,” Beck told the Tide. WSU and the Guemes Island Ferry to review the list of reminders posted Committee, cost approximately $2,000. on LineTime in order to help make the Fueling schedule Of the nearly 800 surveys sent out, 354 ferry experience pleasant and safe for ev- The ferry will be fueling between were returned. eryone during this busy time of year. 11:45 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. on the fol- In her recap of the data, Beck noted lowing Tuesdays, when there will be no that respondents residing on Guemes Punch cards second 11:15 a.m. sailings: June 5, June (continued on page 4) There has been some confusion about ferry punch-card purchases due Portable Gas Containers Now Allowed on Ferry to the recently implemented 10-punch The Guemes ferry now has a special permit from the Washington State Depart- cards and the start of peak-season fares. ment of Transportation allowing vehicles to transport gas cans. Each vehicle or Nothing has changed regarding 25-trip vehicle and trailer is allowed two 6-gallon containers of gasoline, subject to various passenger punch cards (valid for one rules, including letting the ferry staff know you’re carrying them. A complete list of year), nor with the 20-trip car and driv- the rules can be found on linetime.org and skagitcounty.net/ferry. er punch cards (valid for three months). Their rates don’t change, and they can be purchased and used during either the peak or the non-peak season provided they have not expired. What has changed is that, for con- venience, 10-trip punch cards are now available—and are not discounted. The peak-season 10-trip cards, avail- able through September 30, cost $100 for a vehicle and driver ($90 for senior/ disabled). Although you may use these cards during the non-peak season, you’d be paying peak-season rate.This card has no expiration date—it only expires at ♦ the next general fare increase. ♦ Islanders and visitors are encouraged to purchase punch cards, as this will speed up boarding and help keep sail- ♦ ings on time.
Ticket machine Skagit County continues to work with Virtual Ticketing Solutions on the 4 The Guemes Tide June 2012
Sund, Mike Jackets, Sue Wintermantel, A Talent for Community and Kathleen Phillips on ukulele, with Ginger Bertil- son on mando- lin, and singers Bob and Omi Cummings. After a photos by thea lacross photos break to draw raffle tickets for a variety of donated prizes (proceeds bene- fit the Hall op- erations fund), Eddie Clark brought out his By Thea LaCross guitar for a ver- It was the kind of island sion of “Moonlight Sonata.” day we dream about all winter: The evening ended with a set of fid- clear sky, warm sun, and every- dle tunes by Suzie and Mike Gwost and thing emerald green and gleam- George Parks, who continued to play ing. The setting was perfect for while folks pitched in to clear and wash the Guemes Island Communi- the dishes, put tables away, and tidy up ty Center Association (GICCA) the Hall. Clockwise from top left: Cannery Underground There was a touching moment when special potluck and talent show serenades dancers Emily Bush and Will Prewitt; Lorrie on May 12. Even the business Steele’s dancers offer up some precision tapping; and 88-year-old George put down his fiddle meeting moved outside, where a the ukelele ensemble plays favorites old and new. to sing Nat King Cole’s “When I Grow review of the month’s expenses Too Old to Dream.” It’s a love song, a and discussion of playground wish-list an ancient dump truck. Ten-year-old song about not forgetting what has been items was completed in the time it took Anna Prewitt, apparently unruffled by important: “When I grow too old to volunteers to set up tables on the deck the standing-room-only crowd, played a dream, I’ll have you to remember. . . .” and inside the Hall. fine “Für Elise” on the Hall piano. Watching islanders slowly depart As islanders arrived for the potluck, The stage was next filled with uku- from the Hall that night, I hoped we’d Cannery Underground (Tim Wittman lele players from Guemes and Ana- have more days together, like this one, and Dave Perkins) provided upbeat mu- cortes, backed by Janet Hanson on elec- to remember. sic with some great harmonies and origi- tric standup bass. Strumming a mélange The council will continue to work nal songs, not to mention a bit of bona- of favorite tunes and encouraging the through the summer, but there won’t be fide yodeling. Square Harbor Brewery audience to sing along (which we did, another general meeting until Thursday, offered tasting samples of their island- with gusto) were Judy Cookson, Paul September 20. made microbrewed beer. It was a lovely mingling of island folks old and new, of all ages, and a great reminder of our col- FERRY UPDATE Beck noted that some of the recent lective talent for community. (continued from page 3) schedule changes—made in response Talents of many other sorts were on more than six months a year were to islanders’ input at the March Public display during the revue that followed, most satisfied with the cleanliness of Ferry Forum and to comments received starting with emcee Ron Knowles, the vessel and facilities and with the at Beck’s office—were also specifically whose old-time-radio-show-style in- courteousness of the captains and suggested by survey respondents, such as troductions and humorous asides left crew, while those residing less than more runs on the weekends during peak the audience alternately laughing and six months were most satisfied with season. groaning. Toe-tapping their way onto on-time performance and cleanli- She stated that Public Works will the floor in a snazzy dance routine, Lor- ness. From all responders, the sailing continue to look at how the schedule is rie Steele’s tap dancers looked sharp as schedule received the most dissatisfied working for islanders, and another dis- they kicked off the show. Thelma Palm- scores; the schedule was also the topic cussion regarding this issue will be on er read her poem “Luke’s Truck,” the most cited in response to the question the agenda for the Public Ferry Forum tale of her unusual honeymoon trip in about how to improve service. coming up in the fall. The Guemes Tide June 2012 5 GIPOA Annual Whooping-Cough Epidemic in Skagit County Meeting By Edith Walden and violent coughing fits and spells; it The Guemes Island Property Owners Letters recently went out to all par- may last up to 3 months and can result Association (GIPOA) annual meeting ents in the Anacortes School District de- in cracked ribs and hospitalization. will be held on Saturday, June 9, at 7 scribing the symptoms, treatment, and When a family member is diagnosed p.m. at the Community Center. Follow- prevention of pertussis, also known as with pertussis, the whole household ing a short business meeting, GIPOA whooping cough. Adults and older chil- should be treated with the antibiot- members will elect officers and trustees dren can survive the illness, but infants, ics and must be quarantined for 5 days, and select the Citizen of the Year. and young children who have not been she outlined. Paciotti reports that Skagit Ballots for the positions of vice presi- immunized, are at serious risk. Infants County has the highest number of con- dent, secretary, two on-island trustees, can die from the disease. firmed pertussis cases in the state—343, and two off-island trustees have been According to Anacortes School Dis- with another 150 suspected. mailed to members. Bring your ballot to trict Nurse Rosie Noble, there are cur- the meeting or mail it to GIPOA, P. O. rently about 25 positive cases of pertus- Vaccine wears off Box 131, Anacortes, WA 98221 no later sis in the school population, including Neither being vaccinated nor con- than June 6. 2 teachers, and she speculated that there tracting the disease provides lifelong Carolyn and Ed Gastellum, Skagit were more cases within school families, immunity. The letter from the school County Climate Stewards and Guemes in addition to cases that have not been district advises that children aged 7 to Mountain co-stewards, will speak about formally tested. 10 who are not up-to-date with their the coal train facility proposed in Bell- Testing is expensive (about $400), whooping cough vaccination, adoles- ingham (see “Beyond Coal” below). Re- Skagit County Communicable Disease cents aged 11 to 18 (preferably at age 11 freshments will be served. Manager Sandi Paciotti told the Tide, or 12), and adults need booster shots of GIPOA membership is open to all and many physicians are diagnosing tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular per- residents who have lived on Guemes cases by reported symptoms rather than tussis vaccine (Tdap). Pregnant women Island six months or longer and all by testing. She described the highly con- especially need to be immunized. The Guemes Island property owners. Dues tagious bacterial infection that begins present recommendation is that one are $10 per year for individuals and $15 with a runny nose, sore throat, and low- booster shot is sufficient. for families. grade fever. Incubation can last from 7 You may get vaccinated by your to 21 days. healthcare provider or at most pharma- According to Paciotti, the dry cough cies and clinics. For further information, Beyond Coal may not appear until 7 to 10 days later, see the state health department’s website The topic of “Coal-Free Skagit” was but people with pertussis are contagious doh.wa.gov. presented at Soup Supper on May 23 from the first day and for as long as 30 by Ed and Caro- days without antibiotic treatment. Treat- lyn Gastellum. ment with a 5-day course of antibiotics They were invit- is only effective in curing the disease be- ed to Guemes by fore the cough begins, Paciotti advises, Melody Young, but it is necessary even after the cough holiday matchett holiday who—like occurs in order to prevent the spread of many others—is concerned about the illness. The cough progresses to long the proposed Carolyn Gastellum transport of large amounts of coal to three proposed deep-water facilities in Washington State. GIPOA will be hosting a presenta- tion, June 9 at 7 p.m., on this subject at the Community Center (see adjoining article). At 10 a.m. the same morning, Remodels Painting Design at the Loft of Anderson’s Store, Repre- sentative Rick Larsen will be visiting Guemes Island to discuss congres- www.olsondesignworks.net sional issues and listen to constituents. Questions? Call Bob Anderson at 293- Robert (360) 588-9090 3770 or Gail Nicolls at 293-9540. Licensed, Bonded & Insured #OLSONDW891K6 6 The Guemes Tide June 2012
Variety and Contrast to Mark Garden Tour The Guemes Garden Tour on Satur- June Soup Suppers day, June 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., pro- Soup Suppers will continue on vides an opportunity to visit some special places on the island and to contribute to Tuesdays in June at the Church, with the Community Center Association at the dinner at 6 p.m. and a program (if same time. Seven very different gardens there is one) at 7. with unique settings have been gener- Schedule details weren’t available ously opened for viewing by their owners. at press time; watch the chalkboard at Highlights include a smaller, low- the ferry dock. maintenance garden designed for those with limited time or mobility; a large parklike garden with fauna as well as flora; gardens that offer beautiful views of the surrounding sound; one that includes original garden art; a dog- and deer-friendly garden; and a garden with unique plant varieties that are (mostly) labeled. This tour is an island tradition, and this year’s proceeds will be used to help Gathering Lunches maintain the Community Center, which is also where the tour starts. Stop there first End for the Season to purchase your $10 ticket and get a map showing the locations of the gardens. Garden-goers are seriously encouraged to carpool or ride their bikes, since park- The Gathering lunch program has ing can be quite limited. This year there is no free shuttle service, but you can make completed another successful season of reservations for a shuttle to tour the gardens for just $5 per person; call Joan Petrick providing island residents wonderful at 293-4438. Islanders who have extra room in their cars and are willing to drive: meals and time to socialize during please contact Joan. the winter months. For more than 25 weeks from October through Math and Science (and Literature) Camp Returns April, Gathering volun- Last year’s math and science camp for island children was such a success that it teers served a total of 916 will be repeated this year. Retired educators Holiday Matchett, Kathy Finks, and meals—149 more than the Carol Harma will present activities relating to science, math, and literature from previous year—and deliv- July 2 through 6 (excluding the 4th) for children aged 4 (or almost 4) through 10. ered 80 meals to shut-in The sessions run from 9:45 a.m. to noon at the Community Center. Children will residents. be divided into three groups based on age. A parent or guardian must attend with A huge thank you the child. goes to volunteer cooks Kathy Finks, This year’s theme is “Movement.” Jenny Whitman and Margaret Read MacDon- Juby Fouts, Lorraine Francis, Sharon ald will share songs and stories to open and close each session. Hughlitt, Jan Iversen, Gail Messett, Ben The first two days will focus on sound and rhythm. On Tuesday children will Myall, Gail Nicolls, Anne Passarelli, and make rhythm instruments and will be asked to collect things that might be used to their teams. Without all of them this make rhythm instruments (cans, boxes, and sticks, for example). They will have an lunch wouldn’t be possible. Thank you opportunity to march in the 4th of July parade if they so desire. On Thursday and to nurses Juby Fouts, Zoanne Hyland, Friday the focus will be on movement in nature and around Guemes Island. and Sue Nichol, who were available each Advance registration is required. For more information or to register, contact week to answer questions and check Carol Harma at 293-5784 or [email protected]. blood pressures. Thanks also to Carol Park, who joined the Gathering team in January and offered chair massages. Senior Foot and Nail Clinic If you’d be interested in working Guemes Island seniors may schedule appointments for a foot and nail clinic on with the Gathering lunch program next Tuesday, June 26, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Church. Cost for the half-hour appoint- season or want more information about ment is $19 for foot care and $6 for fingernail care. it, contact Lorraine Francis at 293-8364 To schedule an appointment, call Lisa Beaver of Visiting Nurse Home Care at 632- 1684. For more information about the clinic, call Lorraine Francis at 293-8364. or anyone listed above. The Guemes Tide June 2012 7 Hiker Alert Class Acts Are you looking for local areas to Here’s a preview of upcoming classes and workshops on explore? If so, you’ll be glad to know the island. If you’d like us to include your class or workshop, that a group of hikers goes out every send details to [email protected] by the 15th of the Wednesday exploring the natural areas month preceding the issue date. surrounding Guemes. Wood-Burning Oven Construction The Skagit Audubon Hiking Group Join Jodi Meekins and Frea Woofenden as they show you how to build walks happen rain or shine, to destina- a wood-burning oven that can be used to make pizza, roast meats, and bake tions ranging bread—all from one fire! Easy-to-get supplies make this method of building a from Guemes, mud oven very affordable. June 23 and 24 (both partial days). Call Jodi (293- Fidalgo, Whid- 0963) or Frea (293-7448) for details. bey, Camano, and several San carol steffy Island Summer Art Camp Juan Islands to Island artists Sue Roberts and Janice Veal will teach a series of one-week British Colum- sessions for young folks aged 8 through 14 starting June 25. Each of the five bia, the Olym- one-day sessions offers something unique. Students can choose to work in pic Peninsula, clay, watercolors, papier-mâché, printmaking, cartooning, and more. Class the North Cascades, and the Chuckanut time will be spent both in the studio and outdoors on a nearby beach. All ses- area. No, you do not have to be a mem- sions are Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Cost of $295 ber of Skagit Audubon to hike with this per session includes all art materials. For details call Sue Roberts at 293-8878 group. or visit towerartsstudio.com. The hikers tend to range in age from 45 to 80, and the distance varies from 5 to 15 miles. To find the monthly hiking schedule, go to skagitaudubon.org and Clay-Class Students to Exhibit at Store click “Hiking” in the left column. The clay class that has been meeting this spring on Tuesday nights at Tower Stu- For additional information, you can dios and instructed by Sue Roberts will exhibit hand-built ceramic wall tiles in the Loft contact Joan Melcher, the Skagit Audu- at Anderson’s Store in June and July. A reception for the artists will be held Saturday, bon hike organizer, at 424-0407 or June 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. The Sour Mash Hug Band will play music from 5 to 8:30 p.m. [email protected]. Participants in the show are Penny Berk, Deb Dehn, Tia Kurtz, Patty Leatherwood Here on the island, Bob Matchett, McClane, Kathleen Phillips, Mary Ann Rhody, Sue Roberts, Wendy Ross, Stella Spring, [email protected], has informa- and Lauri Woodland. tion on all the hikes.
Historical Society Meeting to Recall Bud Hanson The curious, offbeat life of Alton “Bud” Hanson will be the discussion topic at the June meeting of the Guemes Island Historical Society. Hanson, a boatbuilder by trade, earned his notoriety starting in the early 1960s when he built his wanigan* on the beach off South Shore Road some 1,000 yards east of the ferry landing. The ingeniously constructed 12-by-33-foot cedar and driftwood struc- ture contained his kitchen, living/bedroom, and workshop. It rode the waves, sometimes violently, at high tide and solidly rested on the sand listing 10 degrees at low tide. Stories of this cantankerous, profane, talented, alco- holic builder are legion. The public is invited to share what they remember of this classic island character. The meeting is Monday, June 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Church. At the May meeting, Jeff Gent outlined the history of the gravel indus- This image by Earl Cahail shows the wanigan try on Guemes, involving such innovative entrepreneurs as Lee Lewis, Mac nearing completion in about 1970. Despite its lightweight construction, the floating cabin served Lopp, and George Wilson. as Hanson’s home for some 15 years before it was *Wanigan: “a barge-like boat” often used as headquarters for down-river log drives or destroyed in a storm. temporary homes in remote areas, early 20th century. (One of several definitions.) 8 The Guemes Tide June 2012
CLARK POINT FIRE ized that more water would be needed GIFD Responders (continued from page 1) to fight the fire. Tapping the swimming broke out into the cathedral ceilings in pool’s 45,000 gallons was considered Praise goes to our very professional this part of the structure. briefly, but accessing this source was group of volunteer firefighters whose many hours and years of training paid A tactic primarily used in commer- deemed too difficult. Stamper called for off in the smooth teamwork and execu- cial structures was employed by cut- a tender strike team, which resulted in tion of firefighting skills at the Clark ting a vertical trench through the roof an additional five 2,500- to 3,000-gal- Point fire. Pat them on the back the just south of the north wing and main- lon trucks. When that water was ex- next time you see them. taining a solid curtain of water in the hausted, the trucks began to shuttle wa- • Fire Chief Mike Stamper trench. This tactic is credited with sav- ter from other hydrant supplies: 10,000 • Assistant Fire Chief Gerry Francis ing the entire north wing. Skagit Coun- gallons from the Fire Hall, about 8,000 • Chief Medical Officer Nancy White ty Deputy Fire Marshal Kevin Noyes gallons from the Store, 12,000 gallons • Captain Bob White told the Tide, “Given the resources and from Salmon Run, and up to 9,000 gal- • Lieutenant Tom Fouts terrain, the firefighters did an incredible lons from Trail Run. Throughout the • Lieutenant Olivia Snell • Firefighter/EMT Deb Bear job containing the fire to what it was.” fire Francis and Tom Fouts worked dili- • Firefighter/EMT Zander gently to maintain a continuous water Woofenden Water, water—from supply for firefighting operations. • Firefighter/EMT Tim Powell everywhere At 7:30 p.m. Stamper called for a • EMT Juby Fouts For the stubborn fire with so much structural strike team, and at about 9:15 • EMT Dave Wolf fuel available (even the massive steel p.m. he began replacing exhausted fire- • Junior Firefighter Ryan Everett support beams were enclosed with fighters and started interior firefight- • Junior Firefighter Claire wood), the only weapon was water. Two ing operations that continued until the Woofenden pumper trucks kept up to six two-and- fire was brought under control. Skagit • Firefighters Auxiliary leaders Kim one-half-inch hose lines charged with County Interim Fire Marshal Kelly Stamper and Lorraine Francis water to use on the east and southwest Blaine replaced Fire Warden Fred sides of the residence. The GIFD wa- Wefer at about 10 p.m. and stayed all the activity, White stayed on her post ter tender truck holds 4,000 gallons of the rest of the night. “He was a great the entire night. “Nancy did an incred- water, and a pond on the property that asset,” Stamper remarked. ible job in managing the communica- contained at least 200,000 gallons was Near 3 a.m. Monday morning, tions and staging the apparatus,” Chief hooked up to a gravity-fed hydrant. Stamper sent the last off-island fire Stamper emphasized. By 6 p.m. the command team real- truck home. By 7 a.m. all hotspots were Because of the difficulty with radio under control, and the remaining fire reception, Stamper also depended on The Regional Team crew went home for a few hours of sleep communication assistance from the Without the help of 12 other fire as a new shift came on. The final smol- 911 dispatchers, who he credits with an districts, the Clark Point residence dering embers were doused by 10 a.m. essential, top-notch performance. might well have burned to the ground Though half the structure is still stand- Stamper also commended Anacortes (although not in 15 minutes, as one ing, Stamper estimates the total damage, Fire Chief Richard Curtis for his assis- widespread rumor purported). Of the including that from smoke and water, to tance and advice; Anacortes Lieuten- 100 responders, more than 90 percent be about 75 percent. ant Nick Walsh, who took command of were volunteers, many of whom had the east-side operations; and District 11 to go to work on Monday. Thanks are Staging Captain Donny Smith, who command- due to these districts that extended Managing the logistics of more than ed operations at the southwest wing. their personnel, skills, equipment, and supplies: 28 arriving and departing emergen- Most of all he praised the Skagit County • Anacortes Fire Department cy vehicles—pumpers, ladder trucks, Fire Training Academy for the rigorous, • La Conner Fire Department tenders, an air truck (to refill breath- uniform training all county firefighters • Mount Vernon Fire Department ing equipment), medical vehicles, com- receive, which enabled multiple units to • District 2 (McLean Road) mand units, and the Red Cross—down respond efficiently in well-coordinated • District 3 (Conway/Cedardale) a long single-lane driveway to multiple teams at such a complicated incident. • District 4 (Clear Lake) staging areas fell to Chief Medical Of- Stamper himself deserves credit for • District 5 (Bow/Edison) ficer Nancy White. At the peak of the managing operations so well at such a • District 9 (Big Lake) fire, there were 58 responders at the challenging and dangerous fire, always • District 11 (Mount Erie) scene. Responsible for communication mindful of the huge safety risks. “We • District 12 (Bayview) don’t risk people for stuff,” he explained • District 13 (Summit Park/Hope between units with radios that couldn’t Island/rural La Conner) get adequate reception, directing traffic to the frustrated owner, who by morn- • North Whidbey Fire and Rescue (including turning away unauthorized ing expressed his gratitude for all the ef- vehicles and bystanders), and tracking forts on his behalf. The Guemes Tide June 2012 9
“I’m so proud of our fire department and how conscientious they are,” Frea Woofenden, mother of two young fire- fighters at the scene, commented. Spe- edith walden cial notice was given by several firefight- ers to the youngest member of GIFD, Claire Woofenden, 17, who was an es- sential part of operating the pumper controls and filling the air tanks. GIFD is a multigenerational fire team; the el- ders had nothing but praise for the per- formance by the younger members of the team.
A valiant ferry crew Islanders on the Anacortes side wait- ing for the late afternoon ferries had to wait up to two and a half hours in line as emergency vehicles were loaded onto the ferry and immediately shuttled across. Ferry Operations Manager Rachel Beck reports that “the ferry schedule went out the window and the ferry ran The fire crew washes and repacks 1,700 feet of hose. on demand throughout the night.” It made a total of 28 runs between 3:06 water from the pool. Mopping up p.m. Sunday and 3:01 a.m. Monday; 17 Island observers of the fire could not Assistant Chief Francis noted that, runs were made during normal operat- help but remember a previous tragedy while this is the kind of large fire ev- ing hours (usually there are 11 sched- at the site. In 2008, 14-year-old Mar- eryone trains for, “when it happens you uled runs between 3 and 10 p.m.) and go Jennings, daughter of original own- never want to see it again.” 11 were made after hours. ers Mark and Laura Jennings, was killed After spending more than 16 hours Both Stamper and White called Beck by a tree that fell on her while she was at the scene, with some crew mem- to express their appreciation for the fer- swinging from a rope. bers and auxiliary volunteers rotating in ry crew’s hard work. According to Northwest Multiple shifts while others caught some sleep, Listing Service records, the Jenningses GIFD faced the daunting task of gather- A troubled history first listed the property for sale in Feb- ing up, cleaning, and servicing equip- Islanders have long been aware of ruary 2005 for $7.5 million, and took ment. Firefighters worked until 9 p.m. the Clark Point property, for several rea- it off the market in December 2006. In on Monday, some taking absences from sons. The building of such a large resi- March 2007 it was relisted for $5.9 mil- work, to complete the tasks and ensure dence had been controversial from the lion and taken off the market in Au- that equipment was ready for another start. Begun in August 1999, construc- gust 2008. It was again listed in August emergency. Further work was required tion went on for almost three years, 2010 for $5.5 million; the price was re- on Tuesday. frequently filling the ferry with large duced in March 2011 to $4.95 million Throughout the week, fire personnel trucks of building supplies. The instal- and further reduced in January 2012 to met with members of the fire marshal’s lation of a 40-by-24-foot swimming $3.95 million. office, the owners’ insurance company pool raised eyebrows on an island with The new owners closed on March and its fire forensics team, talked to the a water shortage; water to fill the pool 28, 2012, paying $3.8 million. press, and prepared reports. was trucked in from off-island. Many Rumors that the property is the site On Thursday, GIFD hosted a meet- thought the building was out of scale of an Indian burial ground are unsub- ing attended by about 30 responders to for the island. stantiated, according to island historian review the process, commending suc- There were no legal requirements for Win Anderson. He noted that there is a cesses and suggesting areas for improved a fire sprinkler system, so the complex, burial site more than a half-mile south performance. Detailed reports of the which cost approximately $10 million of the property and that the expansive incident will be prepared in the next to build, did not have one. A pond con- Samish longhouse existed even further month by the fire marshal and Chief nected to a hydrant was supposed to south in what is now known as the In- Stamper. suffice in case of fire, in addition to dian Village community. (continued on page 10) 10 The Guemes Tide June 2012
CLARK POINT FIRE Tips for Safe Chimneys and Fires (continued from page 9) Fire ruled accidental Wood combustion is never complete. Smoke carries gases that condense on On May 23, Interim Fire Marshal surfaces cooler than 250°F. Creosote ignites at about 450°F (the same ignition point as paper), and wood can ignite without contact from flame at 500°F. Newer airtight Blaine determined that the cause was stoves can produce enough creosote for a fire in just three days. “an accidental fire in the area of the The U.S. Fire Administration recommends that chimneys and wood stoves be chimney.” Chief Stamper told the Tide inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney specialist. Other stove manu- that “the typical chimney fire is caused facturers recommend cleaning after burning two to three cords of wood. Spring is a by creosote buildup.” good time to get your chimney cleaned and inspected—it’s a slow time for chimney The residence had three Rumford sweeps. fireplaces, which are designed with shal- If you want to clean your own chimney, chimney brushes are available at the low (13.5-inch) hearths for small, hot, Store and may be checked out for free. efficient fires using seasoned wood. The The U.S. Fire Administration recommends these practices for safely burning fuels: 30-foot kitchen chimney had four el- • Do not use flammable liquids to start a fire. bows in it. According to Don Holz of • Use only seasoned wood. Green wood accelerates creosote buildup. • Build small, hot fires that burn completely and produce less smoke. Barrons Heating in Mount Vernon, el- • Never burn paper, cardboard, trash, or debris in your fireplace or wood stove. bows make it more likely that creosote Be aware that burning anything other than wood is illegal in Skagit County, and will accumulate, and they also restrict is subject to stiff fines. drafting, further increasing the likeli- hood of creosote buildup. As little as one-eighth inch of creosote is enough to Krieger of Skagit Chimney Sweep of Islanders pitched in to support the cause a fire under the right conditions. Mount Vernon told the Tide that it emergency responders. Firefighters Aux- In reviewing the incident, several would have been possible to clean the iliary leaders Kim Stamper and Lorraine fire officials noted that this chimney— chimney with special equipment, start- Francis began organizing supplies for tall, elbow-jointed, and hard to access— ing at the hearth. The chimneys in the the rehabilitation station. would have been difficult to clean. Mike residence had never been cleaned. (See (Because firefighting is so hot and recommendations demanding, and because the gear fire- for safe wood heat- fighters wear is very heavy—sometimes ing in the sidebar 80 pounds or more—firefighters are re- above). quired to take scheduled breaks to refuel edith walden and rehydrate.) Guemes at Diane Murray and Jan Iverson pre- its best pared food and helped Lorraine at the Most Guemes “rehab” station. Kim organized more residents subscribe food and supplies; Gail Nicolls, Su- to an unwritten zie Gwost, and Jackie Gladish provid- code of conduct that ed food. Homemade chili, soup, salad, includes mutual re- spaghetti, and sandwiches arrived; 30 spect, consideration, sandwiches, 100 bottles of water, and and thoughtfulness 10 large bottles of Gatorade were pur- in this small, close- chased from the Store. Eventually the knit community. Red Cross arrived with a canopy, 100 Never was that code hamburgers, 20 gallons of coffee, and more visible than in numerous snacks, many donated by the events surround- Anacortes merchants. ing the Clark Point “That was the best rehab I’ve ever fire. been to,” one responder shouted as he The owners’ left the scene of the fire. “Can I have the neighbors on one chili recipe?” side took the family Newcomers, guests, and responders and guests into their that night got to experience Guemes at home the afternoon its best—extending its generous com- of the fire, and the munity spirit to those in need. It was neighbors on the simply neighbors helping neighbors, A firefighter directs water at the Clark Point blaze. The kitchen other side housed with no questions asked, nothing ex- chimney where the fire started is at upper left. them overnight. pected in return. The Guemes Tide Community Calendar June 2012 The Guemes Tide Community Calendar June 2012
When What Time Where Contact
JuneWhen 1, Fri. WStrength-Buildinghat Group 7:30Time - 8:15 am ChurchWhere DyvonContac Havenst 293-0221
June 1, Fri. MeditationStrength-Building Group 8:007:30 - 10:008:15 am am 7133Church Glencoe Lane JonDyvon Prescott Havens 929-6996 293-0221 LibraryMeditation open 2:008:00 - 4:0010:00 pm am Library7133 Glencoe Lane CarolJon Prescott Pellett 293-8128929-6996 June 2, Sat. DogLibrary Island open Run* 10:452:00 - am4:00 pm SchoolhouseLibrary Park Carol Pellett 293-8128 June 2, Sat. LibraryDog Island open Run* 2:0010:45 - am4:00 pm LibrarySchoolhouse Park Carol Pellett 293-8128 June 3, Sun. ChurchLibrary openCouncil 8:002:00 am- 4:00 pm ChurchLibrary MarthaCarol Pellett Kline 293-8128293-9850 June 3, Sun. Church ServiceCouncil 9:008:00 am Church Martha Kline 293-9850 June 4, Mon. Strength-BuildingChurch Service Group 7:309:00 -am 8:15 am Church DyvonMartha HavensKline 293-9850 293-0221 June 4, Mon. LibraryStrength-Building open Group 27:30 - 4 -and 8:15 6 -am 8 pm LibraryChurch CarolDyvon Pellett Havens 293-8128 293-0221 YogaLibrary open 6:302 - 4 -and 8:00 6 -pm 8 pm HallLibrary SueCarol Gwost Pellett 293-5708 293-8128 GIPAC:Yoga Shoreline Master Program 7:006:30 pm- 8:00 pm ChurchHall KitSue Harma Gwost 293-5784 293-5708 June 5, Tues. BrownGIPAC: BagShoreline Book ClubMaster Program 1:307:00 pm MarianneChurch Kooiman's MarianneKit Harma Kooiman 293-5784 293-5815 June 5, Tues. FamilyBrown BagPark BookDay Club after1:30 pmschool SchoolhouseMarianne Kooiman's Park StellaMarianne Spring Kooiman 588-1588 293-5815 June 6, Wed. Strength-BuildingFamily Park Day Group 7:30after -school 8:15 am ChurchSchoolhouse Park DyvonStella Spring Havens 588-1588 293-0221 June 6, Wed. Women'sStrength-Building Fellowship/Quilting Group 11:007:30 - am8:15 am Church AnneDyvon Passarelli Havens 293-0221 299-2549 LibraryWomen's open Fellowship/Quilting 211:00 - 4 and am 6 - 8 pm LibraryChurch CarolAnne PellettPassarelli 293-8128 299-2549 YogaLibrary open 6:302 - 4 -and 8:00 6 -pm 8 pm HallLibrary SueCarol Gwost Pellett 293-5708 293-8128 June 7, Thu. LibraryYoga board 7:006:30 pm- 8:00 pm LibraryHall CarolSue Gwost Pellett 293-5708 293-8128 June 8,7, Fri.Thu. Strength-BuildingLibrary board Group 7:307:00 -pm 8:15 am ChurchLibrary DyvonCarol Pellett Havens 293-8128 293-0221 June 8, Fri. MeditationStrength-Building Group 8:007:30 - 10:008:15 am am 7133Church Glencoe Lane JonDyvon Prescott Havens 929-6996 293-0221 LibraryMeditation open 2:008:00 - 4:0010:00 pm am Library7133 Glencoe Lane CarolJon Prescott Pellett 293-8128929-6996 LiveLibrary Music: open Crystal & Jake in Heart Lake 5:002:00 - 8:304:00 pm StoreLibrary CharlotteCarol Pellett Clifton 293-8128 293-4548 June 9, Sat. Rep.Live Music:Rick Larsen Crystal meets & Jake with in votersHeart Lake 10:005:00 - am8:30 pm Store GailCharlotte Nicolls Clifton 293-9540 293-4548 June 9, Sat. LibraryRep. Rick open Larsen meets with voters 2:0010:00 - am4:00 pm LibraryStore CarolGail Nicolls Pellett 293-9540 293-8128 GIPOALibrary Annual open Meeting 7:002:00 pm- 4:00 pm HallLibrary HowardCarol Pellett Pellett 293-8128 293-8128 June 10, Sun. ChurchGIPOA Annual Service Meeting 9:007:00 ampm ChurchHall MarthaHoward KlinePellett 293-9850 293-8128 June 11,10, Mon.Sun. Strength-BuildingChurch Service Group 7:309:00 -am 8:15 am Church DyvonMartha HavensKline 293-9850 293-0221 June 11, Mon. LibraryStrength-Building open Group 27:30 - 4 -and 8:15 6 -am 8 pm LibraryChurch CarolDyvon Pellett Havens 293-8128 293-0221 YogaLibrary open 6:302 - 4 -and 8:00 6 -pm 8 pm HallLibrary SueCarol Gwost Pellett 293-5708 293-8128 HistoricalYoga Society 7:306:30 pm- 8:00 pm ChurchHall WinSue AndersonGwost 293-5708 293-4539 LibraryHistorical Book Society Club 8:007:30 pm LibraryChurch CarolWin Anderson Pellett 293-8128 293-4539 June 12, Tues. FamilyLibrary ParkBook Day Club after8:00 pmschool SchoolhouseLibrary Park StellaCarol PellettSpring 293-8128588-1588 June 12, Tues. FireFamily Commissioners Park Day Meeting 7:30after pmschool FireSchoolhouse Hall Park MikeStella Stamper Spring 588-1588 293-4995 June 13, Wed. Strength-BuildingFire Commissioners Group Meeting 7:30 -pm 8:15 am ChurchFire Hall DyvonMike Stamper Havens 293-4995293-0221 June 13, Wed. Women'sStrength-Building Fellowship/Quilting Group 11:007:30 - am8:15 am Church AnneDyvon Passarelli Havens 293-0221 299-2549 LibraryWomen's open Fellowship/Quilting 211:00 - 4 and am 6 - 8 pm LibraryChurch CarolAnne PellettPassarelli 293-8128 299-2549 YogaLibrary open 6:302 - 4 -and 8:00 6 -pm 8 pm HallLibrary SueCarol Gwost Pellett 293-5708 293-8128 June 14, Thu. Men'sYoga Book Club 7:006:30 pm- 8:00 pm LibraryHall GeorgeSue Gwost Meekins 293-5708 840-9391 FJunelag D14,ay Thu. Men's Book Club 7:00 pm Library George Meekins 840-9391 FJunelag D15,ay Fri. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 June 15, Fri. MeditationStrength-Building Group 8:007:30 - 10:008:15 am am 7133Church Glencoe Lane JonDyvon Prescott Havens 929-6996 293-0221 LibraryMeditation open 2:008:00 - 4:0010:00 pm am Library7133 Glencoe Lane CarolJon Prescott Pellett 293-8128929-6996 Reception:Library open Tower Studios Clay Class Exhibit 5:002:00 - 7:004:00 pm StoreLibrary CharlotteCarol Pellett Clifton 293-8128 293-4548 LiveReception: Music: TowerSour Mash Studios Hug Clay Band Class Exhibit 5:00 - 8:307:00 pm Store Charlotte Clifton 293-4548 ALivell e vMusic:ents l isSourted aMashre op Hugen t oBand the public (some re5:00quire -p 8:30rereg pmistration). AStoresterisk (*) indicates Charlottefee for ev Cliftonent. 293-4548 All events listed are open to the public (some require preregistration). Asterisk (*) indicates fee for event. The Guemes Tide Community Calendar June 2012
The Guemes Tide Community Calendar June 2012
When What Time Where Contact
June 16, Sat. Guemes Island Garden Tour* 10:00 am Hall Becky Stinson 770-6037
When LibraryWhat open 2:00Time - 4:00 pm LibraryWhere CarolConta Pellettct 293-8128 June 17, Sun. Church Service 9:00 am Church Martha Kline 293-9850 June 16, Sat. Guemes Island Garden Tour* 10:00 am Hall Becky Stinson 770-6037 Father's Day Library open 2:00 - 4:00 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 June 18, Mon. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 June 17, Sun. Church Service 9:00 am Church Martha Kline 293-9850 Library open 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Father's Day Yoga 6:30 - 8:00 pm Hall Sue Gwost 293-5708 June 18, Mon. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 June 19, Tues. Family Park Day after school Schoolhouse Park Stella Spring 588-1588 Library open 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Knitting Night 7:30 pm Pellett's Carol Pellett 293-8128 Yoga 6:30 - 8:00 pm Hall Sue Gwost 293-5708 June 20, Wed. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 June 19, Tues. Family Park Day after school Schoolhouse Park Stella Spring 588-1588 Summer Men's Breakfast 8:00 am Church Bob Prescott 588-8206 Knitting Night 7:30 pm Pellett's Carol Pellett 293-8128 Solstice Women's Fellowship/Quilting 11:00 am Church Anne Passarelli 299-2549 June 20, Wed. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 Library open 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Summer Men's Breakfast 8:00 am Church Bob Prescott 588-8206 Yoga 6:30 - 8:00 pm Hall Sue Gwost 293-5708 Solstice Women's Fellowship/Quilting 11:00 am Church Anne Passarelli 299-2549 June 22, Fri. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 Library open 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Meditation 8:00 - 10:00 am 7133 Glencoe Lane Jon Prescott 929-6996 Yoga 6:30 - 8:00 pm Hall Sue Gwost 293-5708 Library open 2:00 - 4:00 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 June 22, Fri. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 Live Music: JP and the OK Rhythm Band 5:00 - 8:30 pm Store Charlotte Clifton 293-4548 Meditation 8:00 - 10:00 am 7133 Glencoe Lane Jon Prescott 929-6996 June 23, Sat. Library open 2:00 - 4:00 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Library open 2:00 - 4:00 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 June 24, Sun. Church Service 9:00 am Church Martha Kline 293-9850 Live Music: JP and the OK Rhythm Band 5:00 - 8:30 pm Store Charlotte Clifton 293-4548 June 25, Mon. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 June 23, Sat. Library open 2:00 - 4:00 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Cemetery Committee 8:00 am Fire Hall Dixon Elder 293-8935 June 24, Sun. Church Service 9:00 am Church Martha Kline 293-9850 Library open 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 June 25, Mon. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 Yoga 6:30 - 8:00 pm Hall Sue Gwost 293-5708 Cemetery Committee 8:00 am Fire Hall Dixon Elder 293-8935 June 26, Tues. Senior Foot and Nail Clinic* 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Church Lisa Beaver 632-1684 Library open 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Family Park Day after school Schoolhouse Park Stella Spring 588-1588 Yoga 6:30 - 8:00 pm Hall Sue Gwost 293-5708 June 27, Wed. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 June 26, Tues. Senior Foot and Nail Clinic* 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Church Lisa Beaver 632-1684 Women's Fellowship/Quilting 11:00 am Church Anne Passarelli 299-2549 Family Park Day after school Schoolhouse Park Stella Spring 588-1588 Library open 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 June 27, Wed. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 Yoga 6:30 - 8:00 pm Hall Sue Gwost 293-5708 Women's Fellowship/Quilting 11:00 am Church Anne Passarelli 299-2549 June 29, Fri. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 Library open 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Meditation 8:00 - 10:00 am 7133 Glencoe Lane Jon Prescott 929-6996 Yoga 6:30 - 8:00 pm Hall Sue Gwost 293-5708 Library open 2:00 - 4:00 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 June 29, Fri. Strength-Building Group 7:30 - 8:15 am Church Dyvon Havens 293-0221 June 30, Sat. Library open 2:00 - 4:00 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 Meditation 8:00 - 10:00 am 7133 Glencoe Lane Jon Prescott 929-6996 Library open 2:00 - 4:00 pm Library Carol Pellett 293-8128 JuneUP C30,OM Sat.ING LibraryMath, Science, open and Literature Camp for children 2:00aged -4 4:00 through pm 10 will Librarybe held July 2 throughCarol 6 (excluding Pellett 293-8128 July 4).
ONGOING Art Show: Tower Studios Clay Class Exhibit will be on display at the Store through July. UPCOMING Math, Science, and Literature Camp for children aged 4 through 10 will be held July 2 through 6 (excluding July 4). To add your event, email: [email protected] (by the 15th of the month). ONGOING Art Show: Tower Studios Clay Class Exhibit will be on display at the Store through July.
To add your event, email: [email protected] (by the 15th of the month). The Guemes Tide June 2012 13
GIPAC Reviews Tests of Skill for Joe Gladish Honored Shoreline Master Island’s Young Men By Judith Horton Program Revision Friends and family gathered on May 5 for a potluck and music fest at the By Nancy Fox Hall to wish Joseph Gladish well during Skagit County is midway through a his upcoming deployment to Afghani- multi-year effort to update the county’s stan. His wife, Sabrina, accompanied Shoreline Master Program (SMP). This revision is important to Guemes Island thea lacross because it is the primary mechanism courtesy gladish family for implementing the shoreline protec- tion policies of the Guemes Island Sub- area Plan. Shoreline uses, development Blake (airborne) breaks boards with standards such as height restrictions and both feet simultaneously. setbacks, and shoreline restoration plans will all be affected by the new SMP. Out of nine advanced Soo Bahk Do Skagit County staff recently released (Korean karate) students who recently Left to right are John Reints (Sabrina’s un- a working draft of the revised SMP and demonstrated their skills before a cle), Jerry Frelix, Dick Iverson, Joe Gladish, new shoreline maps. On May 22, the regional testing board in Lake Oswego, Tim Rush (Sabrina’s father), Mike McGuin- draft was presented to a joint meeting of Oregon, two hailed from Guemes. ness, Kelly Bradley, and Jeremy Carter. the Skagit County Planning Commis- Blake Prescott, 15, and Blaine sion and the county’s Shoreline Advisory LaCross, 17, traveled to Lake Oswego to him from their home base in Kansas. Committee. The draft is posted online demonstrate their skills before a panel In a brief ceremony, the veterans of senior teachers drawn from the west- for public review (at skagitcounty.net, ern region. who attended stood to honor Joe. They select “Department Directory” on the The test had physical and mental also presented him with a “challenge left, then “Planning and Development” components, with demonstrations coin” for Joe’s division, the 1st Infantry on the right, then “Shoreline Master of form and technique as well as oral Division. Programs” on the right). questions from the panel. Candidates County staff stress that the SMP completed written tests and essays as Birthdays & Anniversaries draft is very preliminary, and will be re- part of their evaluation. vised as the Planning Commission and Blake, who has studied Soo Bahk (Recognition for those 18 and under Shoreline Advisory Committee review it Do since he was 10 years old, passed and the chronologically gifted) over the summer. A final draft and for- the test for 2nd Dan (equivalent to 2nd Healy Reinholt turns 12 on June 1. degree black belt in other karate tradi- mal public review process are expected Marilyn Ramsay turns 81 on June 5. tions). Blaine, who started at 14, passed in late fall or early 2013, with adoption Bill Westenhaver turns 87 on June 6. the test for 1st Dan. Both are also certi- Rose Fraley turns 82 on June 8. scheduled for June 2013. fied assistant instructors. Deanna Wagner turns 73 on June 11. Guemes Island Planning Advisory Islander Claire Woofenden, 17, Sidney Grassi turns 8 on June 14. Committee (GIPAC) chair Kit Har- became a 1st Dan last year. All three are Olivia Northcutt turns 1 on June 15. ma attended the joint meeting and two members of the Anacortes Soo Bahk Sam Stamper turns 15 on June 18. Shoreline Advisory Committee meet- Do studio. Zaden Ogle turns 2 on June 29. ings. He notes that Betsy Stevenson, the planning department’s lead, came to Guemes to inform GIPAC about the update process and listen to concerns. “It is quite gratifying to have this qual- ity of a relationship with the county,” he told the Tide. GIPAC will be reviewing the draft SMP over the next several months. The plan will be the main topic of discussion at the next GIPAC meeting on Mon- day, June 4, at 7 p.m. at the Commu- nity Center. Islanders are encouraged to attend the meeting. For more informa- tion, contact Harma at 293-5784. 14 The Guemes Tide June 2012 Guemes Gold Scholarships Awarded By Edith Walden music. She has traveled in Outstanding island students were Guatemala and Costa Rica. awarded Betty Crookes Guemes Gold Claire is the daughter of Frea Scholarships at a ceremony at the and Ian Woofenden. Church on May 6. Jacob Rector won Alyssa Kilpatrick, a se- the Gold Award of $1,500, Claire nior at Anacortes High, is Woofenden won the Silver Award of an Honor Roll student who $1,000, Alyssa Kilpatrick won the loves playing music, writ- Bronze Award of $500, and an Honor- ing songs and poetry, and able Mention was awarded to Jacqueline painting and drawing. She Anderson. has been accepted at West-
Jacob Rector, a senior at Anacortes ern, where she plans to study photos by edith walden High School, has been accepted to photojournalism. She has re- Scholarship winners Western Washington University, where ceived several achievement Claire Woofenden, he plans to study business. An Hon- awards, has participated in Alyssa Kilpatrick, and or Roll student, he was voted the most student government, and Jacob Rector (left inspirational member of the football worked on the school year- to right above) and team and is the leader of the Metals book. She volunteers at the Jacqueline Anderson (right) Club, where he enjoys welding. He loves Elks Club, helping to set up chemistry and math and performing in events, and works halftime at Island Carolyn and Richard Anderson. his heavy-metal band Swine Grinder. Hospital. She credits her parents, Jodi Betty Crookes co-founded the schol- He volunteers at the Elks Club, helping and Jason Kilpatrick, for teaching her to arship program in 1991. The program with fundraisers, and works with Rich- be optimistic and nonjudgmental. is funded by individual donations and ard Houghton’s company Magic Earth Jacqueline Anderson is a junior at those from numerous island organi- Landscaping. Jacob is the son of Rebec- Anacortes High and an Honor Roll stu- zations. The hardworking scholarship ca Rector. dent. She is the secretary of the Green committee members are Jan Ebersole, Claire Woofenden, a home-schooled Club and aspires to a career in the en- Julie Hopkins, Don Passarelli, Carol junior, was born and raised on Guemes. vironmental field and to travel. Follow- Pellett, Susan Rombeek, Sue Sievers, She hopes to attend Washington State ing college, she hopes to join the Peace Janice Veal, and Tim Wittman. University and wants to be a veterinar- Corps. She is the leader of a pet-waste The committee recently announced ian. She is a Junior Firefighter with the disposal project on the Tommy Thomp- a minor revision in the rules: as of next Guemes Island Fire Department and son Trail. She loves photography and year, an applicant must begin the school wants to become an EMT. Claire has has exhibited at the Anacortes Arts Fes- year as a resident of Guemes and still be the equivalent of a first-degree black tival. Jacqueline volunteers at the Boys a resident at the time of application. belt in Soo Bahk Do (Korean karate). and Girls Club and has helped out at Donations to the fund may be sent She teaches at the Boys and Girls Club, benefit dinners on Guemes. She works to the Betty Crookes Guemes Gold practices duck nest-box husbandry, rais- part-time at Fidalgo Animal Medical Scholarship Committee, 5308 West es homegrown food, and loves art and Center. Jacqueline is the daughter of Shore Road, Anacortes, WA 98221. The Guemes Tide June 2012 15 Heavenly Care Is Open for Business By Tom Murphy with natural light. Heavenly Care, Inc., an adult fam- This room opens onto ily home owned and managed by is- a porch with a deck land residents Larry and Sharyn Rich- that wraps around the mond, is now a reality. After persevering house, providing nu- through a rigorous year-and-a-half-long merous places to enjoy edith walden application process, the Richmonds se- being outdoors. Down cured a license from the Washington the hall are two small State Department of Social Health Ser- bedrooms, one for a vices (DSHS) to operate an adult family single resident and Larry and Sharyn Richmond in the great room of their adult home for three residents at their Holi- one that could accom- family home. day Boulevard home. They recently modate two. overcame a major hurdle by securing The bathroom for residents has a Lorna Parent of the Skagit Coun- financing for the project. combination tub/shower with plenty of ty Health Department explained to the Since 2007, when Larry and Sharyn grab bars; a walk-in shower is available Tide that the Hideaway water system received their building permit, they in the bathroom adjoining the Rich- is a Group A public water system and thought they might one day initiate monds’ master bedroom. For residents is therefore under the jurisdiction of an adult family home in their spacious who can manage stairs, there is a cozy the Washington State Department of residence. Both Larry and Sharyn have sitting room upstairs. The Richmonds Health, concluding that the county has cared for elderly relatives over the years, have obviously put a lot of thought and no jurisdiction. and Sharyn coordinated social services effort into making their home welcom- The Richmonds maintain that car- in a nursing home in San Diego. Lar- ing and safe. ing for three resident elders requires no ry spent a year as a police officer in El more water usage than for three family Cajon, California, and 25 years in the Water concerns members. aircraft business with Rohr Industries, According to Skagit County Plan- leaving as a finance supervisor. He cur- ning and Development Services Senior Applications are open rently drives the island school bus, and Planner Brandon Black, Skagit County People interested in applying for Sharyn drives a school bus for special has approved the home “as a single fam- residence at Heavenly Care may contact education students in the Anacortes ily residence with an approved water the Richmonds at HeavenlyCareInc@ school district. connection and a three-bedroom septic hotmail.com or 299-8584 for questions system.” The Richmonds hope eventual- or to arrange a tour. Heavenly Care can Nursing care available ly to expand the family home from three accept long-term care insurance plans An adult family home provides resi- to six residents, which would likely re- but will not take Medicaid clients. The dential care for the elderly, based on in- quire an expansion of the septic system. base cost is $4,000 per month, which dividual needs. Independent and assist- The Holiday Hideaway Water Board, could change depending on the needs of ed living, along with nursing care, will which owns and runs their local wa- the individual, Larry explained, adding be provided at Heavenly Care. Resident ter company, wrote letters to the Skagit that no state funds will be used in the Manager Monica Clifton, RN, BSN, is County Health Department and to operation of Heavenly Care. part of the corporation and will provide DSHS expressing opposition to the con- the initial resident assessment and plan version of the Richmond’s home to an of care and will monitor plans, making adult family home. The letters stated the sure residents’ ongoing needs are being board’s opinion that “the change of use met. Additionally, she will work with would adversely affect the water compa- Larry and Sharyn to ensure compliance ny’s ability to deliver water to its mem- with all state guidelines. Clifton told the bers and maintain the system. We be- Tide that her hope is to “provide a place lieve that this use would be detrimental for the elderly to feel comfortable and to the provision of safe drinking water call home.” to the entire Hideaway.” Sharon Schlit- A tour of the large home begins with tenhard, president of the Holiday Hide- entry into the great room and open away Association, told the Tide, “The floor plan that includes a sitting room, association’s board felt that the original well-appointed kitchen, and dining plans presented would place a real strain area—all with vaulted ceilings and filled on the water system of the community.” 16 The Guemes Tide June 2012 Islanders Sponsor Relay for Life Team
By Edith Walden Pauline (Ineke) and Andy Ander- son are both cancer survivors. Pauline was diagnosed in 2001 with breast can-
cer. Andy was diagnosed in 1999 with EDITH WALDEN bladder cancer. In 2002 he first learned about the Relay for Life program from his oncologist. Nationally sponsored by the Ameri- can Cancer Society, Relay for Life events Pauline and Andy Anderson sponsor a Relay for Life team. are held throughout the country to raise funds for research and for support of sor a team. cancer victims, survivors, caregivers, In their modest Ocean Acres re- and mourners. Started in Tacoma by treat that they’ve been coming to for 40 colorectal surgeon Dr. Gordy Klatt, the years, the couple brims with enthusiasm all-night event gathers teams of people and pride as they display their partici- who camp out overnight (because “can- pant medals and the T-shirts with their cer never sleeps”) and take turns walk- team’s name. They are hoping that more ing or running around a track. Each people from Guemes will become in- team must have a member on the track volved in the event by donating to or at- at all times. Food, games, music, mem- tending the event that has brought them orial ceremonies, and other activities at so much camaraderie and support, and the family-friendly event help make the a way to celebrate and give back to the fundraising fun and meaningful. cancer community. The 2012 Relay for Life of Ana- To contribute to the Andersons’ cortes will begin at 3 p.m. on Saturday, team online, visit relayforlife.org/ June 23, and continue until 9 a.m. on anacorteswa, choose to support a team, Sunday, June 24, at the Anacortes High and then select Runnin’ Bear’s Retreat. School War Memorial Stadium. Every- Checks made out to the American Can- one is welcome. The Andersons will be cer Society can be sent to the Andersons Notice sponsoring their Runnin’ Bear’s Retreat at 7348 Ocean Acres Lane, Anacortes, Fire Commissioners’ regular team for the third year—this year as a WA 98221. Donations may also be meeting, June 12, 2012, at silver sponsor, raising $1,000 to spon- brought to the event. 7:30 p.m. at the Fire Hall Public welcome Pie and Plant Sale a Sunny Success The Pie and Bake Sale on May 26 raised $1,418 for the Women’s Fellowship. As usual, the pies sold out in about half an hour.
The Plant Sale raised photos by HOLIDAY MATCHETT $1,012 that will be divided equally between G.I.V.E. and Guemes Connects. The community garage sale, an event held outside the Hall selling do- nated items, raised $1,130 for the Community Center. Everyone was pleased with the weather and the Left: Carol Harma organizes pies for sale. Right: Margi turnout. Houghton browses for plants. The Guemes Tide June 2012 17
skinned and dressed it. The plan was for Yadi and Melody to deliver the remains to a butcher in town. But apparently the “aging” pro- cess had advanced a bit too far. “You should have seen the look on This story bears repeating, the butcher’s face. He said ‘You as fragments of it came up in a can’t eat this,’” Yadi recalled, recent meeting of the Histori- laughing. “I have to say my first cal Society, and it has all the ele- experience with roadkill was not ments of a classic, true Guemes too special.” tale: the ferry, a prominent local So Yadi and Melody, on their family, and a dead body. way to the 11 p.m. ferry, were • stuck with some l60 pounds of A chill swept the deserted “off” venison. deck as the nervous pair crept carol deach That’s when Yadi hatched the silently down the ferry ramp in plan to feed the crabs . . . and the darkness between late runs what better place to launch the of the ferry M/V Guemes. Swing- carcass than the end of the ferry? ing between them like a small They had no idea that Separov- hammock was their grisly load tightly When this story was first told in the ich was still in the darkened pilothouse. wrapped in a shroud. Evening Star nearly a decade ago, it was And he was not sleeping. Huffing quietly now as they reached noted that with the statute of limita- Imagine his curiosity as he watched the north end of the deserted boat, they tions expired we could safely reveal that the scene unfold. moved carefully, nervously, to avoid the guilty pair were none other than And the deer did not sink! Not right stumbling. Finally the package was low- Yadi Young and then-nine-year-old away. Yadi was no doubt thinking, “My ered to allow the pair to catch their daughter Melody—caught in the act as goodness, we’ll have to pull the thing off breath for a moment and to check the Captain Ray Separovich hit the deck- the beach. . . .” But moments later the black, roiling waters, final resting place light switch. wrapped animal raised its stern and— of the corpse that had to be disposed of. They confessed that they tossed a “just like the Titanic”—slid bow first “On three,” whispered the older one. body off the ferry, the body being the into the watery depths. Pulses racing, they hoisted it, swung carcass of a roadkill deer. Captain Ray was not amused. But it, flung it and . . . The back story started a few days seeing as it was Yadi, the whole episode FLASH! SPLASH! earlier, when neighbor Jane Cordsen was covered up for years. Just as the evidence left their hands, had called on Yadi and Jerry Young on (Best to report dead native animals to the deck lit up like a prison yard. Edens Road to report her car had hit a the Department of Fish and Wildlife. The The perpetrators, blinded and al- deer and it was still alive. county road crew can dispose of any dead ready frightened, were as the proverbial Jerry quickly dispatched the ani- animal posing a health hazard. Call 911. deer in the headlights. (Oh, the irony!) mal and, with neighbor Paul Morehead, —The editors)
Fun and Fiddling for Now WOTFA is an accredited non- nursing homes and senior centers, pro- profit organization with 17 chapters in vide workshops, mentor new players, Park Stage Washington state. Members perform at and in general have a great time playing By Judith Horton old favorites—for old-timers who may On April 28, members of the Wash- not have heard them for many years, ington Old Time Fiddlers’ Association and for younger folks who may not have (WOTFA) provided islanders ranging in ever heard them. age from eight months to 80-plus years Guemes’s own first fiddlin’ family,
with a great afternoon of toe-tapping, judith horton George Park and daughter Suzie Gwost, sing-along oldies. The $360 in proceeds along with her husband Mike, played were donated to GICCA’s Schoolhouse with the group. Performers sported a Stage Project. wide variety of instruments, includ- In 1965 a small group of musicians ing saws, thud-buckets, dobros, basses, came together with the common goal George Park displays his expertise at the harmonicas, banjos, guitars, and—of of keeping old-time fiddle tunes alive. fiddling fundraiser. course—fiddles! 18 The Guemes Tide June 2012
A Taste of Guemes Ben Myall, the Pied Piper of Restaurants By Karen Everett to look at the P.F. Chang’s in the Alad- After a 27-year career opening fa- din Hotel. Myall was hooked on their mous restaurants and franchises around vision of the “ultimate dining experi- the country, Ben Myall is taking a ence” and mantra that “we’re truly glad breather here on Guemes Island, living you’re here and we’ll do everything we with his mother, Lynne Myall. But it can to make you want to come back.” won’t be long before he’s back opening So in 2000 Myall found himself in karen everett some new spot somewhere in the world. Roseville, California, going through the That’s because almost everything he rigorous training at P.F.’s, which includ- touches turns to gold. Myall—a com- ed intense sessions in the kitchen learn- pact, high-energy ball of fire with a ing wok cooking. “At temperatures of clear gaze and a ready laugh—attributes 800 degrees, you learn to make a sauce Ben Myall is taking a break on Guemes from a stellar culinary career. much of his success to the core of peo- smoke, or low temp for ‘velveting,’ or ple he managed to take with him from the ‘bau song’ or ‘explosion of flavor’ Success in San Jose one venture to another. “I kind of felt where the dish must be served steaming He was next enticed to Straits, a Sin- like the Pied Piper of restaurants,” says at the table,” he recalls. gapore/Malaysian restaurant, located in the 43-year-old. During his seven years with the com- the trendy Santana Row “outdoor mall” pany, Myall opened the first P.F. Chang’s near San Jose, where he teamed with lo- From dishwasher to manager in Washington (at Bellevue Square) as cal celebrity chef Chris Yeo. Born in Kentucky to English expa- well as four in California. (continued on page 19) triates, Ben spent most of his childhood in a north-Seattle suburb. He learned a love of lake fishing and the sweet taste Bulgogi Tacos with Spicy Slaw of trout from his proximity to Lake Bulgogi is a Korean dish of thin slices of steak marinated in a soy sauce and Washington and its network of sloughs. sesame oil mixture. To speed up marinating, you can substitute ground beef in place of steak. Myall got started in the restaurant business via his first job as a dishwash- For the meat: For the slaw: er at the Red Robin at Alderwood Mall. 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon salt The company was just transitioning 2 teaspoons sesame oil 1 pound Chinese, red, or napa from a few local Seattle-area restaurants 2 teaspoons crushed garlic cabbage, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon brown sugar 2 tablespoons fish sauce to a full-fledged nationwide chain. He 1 tablespoon mirin 2 tablespoons white vinegar was promoted to server, bartender, and ½ teaspoon black pepper 1½ teaspoons chile flakes finally general manager. 1 pound thinly cut steak or 1 teaspoon garlic, crushed Soon he was selected as part of a Red ground beef ½ teaspoon ginger, crushed Robin “jump team,” a group that helped 1 onion, sliced thin 1 teaspoon sugar start up new restaurants. He moved on 2 scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 scallion, thinly sliced to become a trainer at Red Robins in 1 teaspoon sesame seeds Dallas, Boca Raton, and Philadephia. Warm flour tortillas, to serve ½ cup mayonnaise (optional) Later he opened Red Robins in Red- mond and at Pier 55 in Seattle, where 1. In a large mixing bowl, add the soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, brown sugar, mirin, and black pepper, and whisk. he managed for three years. Owner Jerry 2. Add the beef, onions, and scallions, then mix gently until the sauce is incorpo- Kingen even gave Myall a smiling burg- rated into the meat. Let stand for about an hour, if using sliced beef. er necktie, which he still treasures. 3. In a bowl, sprinkle the salt on the cabbage and toss. Let stand for 20 minutes. During his 11th year at Red Robin, 4. For the slaw, mix the fish sauce, vinegar, chile flakes, garlic, ginger, sugar, scal- he waited on a gentleman who turned lion, and sesame seeds in a bowl. out to be Tom Frank, one of three 5. Bring a pan to medium-high heat and cook the meat until it’s done and most founders of national restaurant chain of the liquid has evaporated, around 10 minutes. P.F. Chang’s. Frank had come in to seek 6. Rinse the cabbage under cold water, then squeeze the excess water out. Toss out Myall and assess his talents, and im- with the fish sauce mixture until well coated. Stir in mayonnaise if desired. mediately asked him to fly to Las Vegas 7. To assemble, spoon meat down the center of each tortilla, and top with slaw. The Guemes Tide June 2012 19
cited poetry and music by the talented All three poets were also featured at Poets Aplenty cowboy poet Dick Warwick. A long- the Skagit River Poetry Festival in La time friend of Suzie Gwost, who orga- Conner May 17 through 20, as was is- nized the reading, Warwick opened with lander Nancy Larsen. Larsen presented a recitation of “The Old Meeting Hall,” a performance and lecture about the life which seemed especially appropriate and poetry of Edna St. Vincent Millay, for the venue. The poignant poem can the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize be found online at cowboypoetry.com/ in poetry, in 1923. Woven into the fas- dickwarwick.htm#Hall and is a good re- cinating history of the radical, success- photos by edith walden photos minder of the treasure we still have here ful poet were deft recitations of many at our own Hall. of her poems and sonnets in an excep- tional performance in the parlor of the Victorian Gaches Mansion. Thirty-two From left: poets Sam Green and Tony Curtis pose with Philip and Anne McCracken. regionally, nationally, and international- ly renowned poets read and spoke at the By Edith Walden festival, a richly rewarding event for lov- Guemes Island was treated to an ar- ers of the spoken word. ray of poets during May. More than 90 people attended the poetry read- ing on May11 by former Washington BEN MYALL Poet Laureate Sam Green and Irish poet (continued from page 18) Tony Curtis. The popular poets both Then—still working with Yeo, and paid tribute to Anne and Philip Mc- with his faithful crew still in tow—he Cracken, who have influenced their lives helped open Sino (French for “Chi- and work. Anne was the organizer of the nese”), also located at Santana Row. It event, which raised $564 to benefit the was a big hit. Sino was chosen to cre- Skagit River Poetry Project. ate the Chinese New Year dinner for the On May 16, attendees at the Com- James Beard Foundation in New York, munity Center thoroughly enjoyed re- Dick Warwick recites cowboy poems. and was picked as one of the top 100 Chinese restaurants in the U.S. Then a high-end recruiting firm Citizen Scientists Up for the Count called on him to help open Joya, a Span- By Judith Horton ish tapas bar in the Palo Alto area, join- Six Guemes birders and two leaders ing forces with Fabrice Roux, executive from off-island spent all or part of Saturday, chef for the Eiffel Tower. “The focus was May 12, tallying birds on the island for the annual North American Migration Count. on fresh and local,” says Myall, and it The beautiful day contributed to a successful was yet another hit: in a 140-seat din- count: 68 species and 950 individual birds. ing room inside an old bank, they did Count leaders Valerie Shahan and Beth $135,000 their first week, $5 million in Thompson birded the entire 12-hour day the first year. and were responsible for the official counts edith walden Myall next tried some new concepts that are sent to Cornell University’s Lab of in the San Jose area, where he opened Ornithology. Island participants included UFood and the Sante Grill, both spe- Gary Curtis, Dyvon Havens, Suzie Gwost, cializing in quick-service, fresh-oriented Judith Horton, and Diana Millikan, who food: wraps, burgers, salads, and fries phoned in counts from her feeders. This year’s count, unlike some, took While counting birds at Howard and place in shorts weather. cooked in an oven instead of a fryer. Carol Pellett’s feeders, Beth spotted a tiny hummingbird in distress. Unbelievably, a After the successful openings of female rufous had gotten her tongue stuck on part of a bush, and in struggling had both restaurants, Myall is taking a well- wrapped it around a branch several times. All hands worked together to successfully earned breather, enjoying fishing, crab- free her, but her tongue was so stretched that she could not retract it all the way. In bing, life’s slower pace, and his mother’s typical island style, the Pelletts interrupted their meal with guests to provide sugar company here on Guemes. He has also water in a small bowl, a box, and a phone book. The hummer lapped up the liquid lent his cooking talents to the Gather- with her damaged tongue while still being held. ing lunch a couple of times. But before The bird was later turned over to Wendy McDougal, who handles injured birds long, someone will come calling, and— on Guemes for Wolf Hollow Wildlife Center. The bird was later released back to the when the offer is right—he’ll be off to wild, because she could fly and because hummers do poorly in captivity. make more restaurant history. Periodical Postage 20 The Guemes Tide June 2012 PAID Anacortes, WA 98221 7885 Guemes Island Road #1 Permit #14902 Anacortes, WA 98221
In This Issue Ferry News 3 Community Update 6–7 Calendar 11–12 Guemes Gold Awards 14 Want the Tide to flow into your Beachcombing 17 mailbox? Subscriptions are $20 A Taste of Guemes 18 per year (10 issues). Our address is above left.
Looking Back From the Files of the Guemes Island Historical Society Five Years Ago “Nan” Morrison Thorpe Hayes. Ninety-Four Years Ago An anonymous former Guemes resi- A surveying crew is seen staking the “The launching of nearly 100 ships dent donates Jack Island to the San Juan ever-eroding South Shore Road “be- on the 4th of July is the most inspiring Preservation Trust. The Nature Conser- cause the county has no record of where news that has come to us. All thanks of vancy is also involved, holding a conser- its right-of-way is.” In some cases the the army in France. Their congratula- vation easement so the 19-acre island to county doesn’t even have a deed to its tions and heartfelt thanks to their patri- the north will remain undeveloped. own roadbed, a reporter is told. otic brothers in the shipyards at home. A more “energy efficient and eco- The owner of a capsized sailboat No more defiant answer could be given friendly” Guemes Island Resort is an- washes ashore off North Beach. He is to the enemy’s challenge. With such nounced as a primary goal of managers given safe haven by Bud Ashbach, who backing we cannot fail to win. All hail Mark and Kelly Linnemann. puts Dave Dillard in a warm bath, gives American ship builders. [General John] —The Evening Star, June 2007 him a place to sleep, and drives him to Pershing” the ferry the next day. —Cablegram sent on June 27, 1918 Ten Years Ago —The Evening Star, June 1997 to American shipyards involved in the The owners of Vendovi Island will be First World War effort, including the allowed to subdivide the 218-acre prop- Seventy Years Ago Guemes Island Sloan Shipyard. erty without creating a fire district as the The death of Albert James “Jimmy” result of a decision by Hearing Examin- Gray of Guemes er Bradford Furlong. (The Fluke family is announced as elected to sell the island in 2011. It was “Anacortes’ first of- purchased by the San Juan Preservation ficial casualty of Trust for $6.4 million.) World War Num-
Hideaway resident and photogra- ber Two.” (Gray courtesy guemes island historical society pher Vickie Grady captures an image of was killed in action a “strange looking bird” identified as a aboard the battle- yellow-billed loon, the rarest of the loon ship Arizona at family. It’s identified by a birdwatcher Pearl Harbor, De- nearby—none other than Gregory Tof- cember 7.) fic, curator of birds at Woodland Park Louie Padovan, Zoo. age 20, of Guemes —The Evening Star, June 2002 Island enlists as a Fireman Second Fifteen Years Ago Class in the U.S. Three-year-old Ryan Everett is the Coast Guard. youngest guest at a gathering of five —The Anacortes generations honoring the 105th birth- American, May 7, This decaying scrap of General Pershing’s cablegram was found in a day of his great-great-grandmother Laura 1942 wall of the “Tower Cottage” by Stella Spring while remodeling.