More $ For SJI “Save Our Schools” Drive

Recent gifts through the “Save Our Schools” Campaign have pushed the matching funds total to $175,000 toward matching a $300,000 “Challenge Gift” to mitigate anticipated program reductions.

Recent pledges of $10,000 each by Roche Harbor Resort, and Rich and Joan Komen helped the campaign go over the half-way mark toward matching the challenge gift.

Superintendent Michael Soltman said, “With matching funds, $350,000 has been raised to restore program cuts related to a $600,000 budget shortfall. We are now able to restore classroom teaching positions, the Primary Intervention Program, part of the athletic program, and some essential secretarial, custodial and student support services. However another $125,000 must be raised to fully restore our programs and services for the 2008-09 school year.”

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Lovel Pratt Announces for County Council District #1

Lovel Pratt has announced her candidacy for the County Council District #1, San Juan Island South; a position currently held by Kevin Ranker, who will not run for re-election.

Lovel states that she “has years of experience working and volunteering in local county government, agriculture, affordable housing, and education. She was first appointed to the SJC Planning Commission in 1999 and was chair for two years. In 2003, the Journal named her ‘Citizen of the Year’ for her work as Executive Director of the San Juan Community Home Trust. "

“I feel very qualified for this position,” she said, “and will focus on several areas where I know I can make a difference:
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Leadership San Juan Islands Class IV Graduates

Leadership San Juan Islands announces graduation for Class IV from 3:00-5:00 p.m. on Friday May 30th at Skagit Valley College in Friday Harbor.

Graduates David Bentley, Carrie Burke, Georgeana Cook, Anna Maria deFreitas, Grisha Krivchenia, Christine Miller, Gail Leschine-Seitz, Kyle Loring, Paul King, Tracie Red Elk, Anji Ringzin and Amy Windrope will present their proposed service projects and receive certificates of completion.

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San Juan Island Celebrity Golf Classic:

(John Vjevoda and crew with Edgar Martinez at '05' Classic)

Wells Fargo San Juan Island Celebrity Golf Classic dinner tickets still available for the Salmon BBQ, Saturday, May 31st!

This weekend 12 local non profit groups will be working together, along with many others, to help put on the 22nd annual San Juan Celebrity Golf Classic, May 30th and 31st. The event is hosted by the gracious and supportive San Juan Golf and Country Club.

The Salmon BBQ Dinner is an event in itself, attracting up to 500 people every year. Once again Ed Perry and Bill Graves of San Juan Seafoods/Trident Seafoods will be donating 500 lbs. of Alaskan Troll King Salmon. While the awesome John Vjevoda and crew are BBQing the salmon, the Friday Harbor High School Jazz Band will be playing under the direction of Janet Olsen, starting at 5:30. The Silent Auction will be open at 9:00am, and the live auction will be at the conclusion of dinner.

Dinner starts at 6:00, and costs $30.00. For dinner tickets call Becki Day at 378.9519.


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Thursday: Spring Street Discovery Speaker Series

Sidney Rittenberg, author of “The Man Who Stayed Behind” Will be interviewed at the the new, monthly Spring Street Discovery Speaker Series will debut in Friday Harbor at Pelindaba Downtown – May 29 at 7:00pm.

The series will bring people who have achieved great things to speak with students who will have a chance to interview, question and talk with them about what they did, how they did it, and what they might do differently next time.

Admission is free and all interested island students and adults are cordially invited!

Come and meet the most amazing man you’ll ever meet, a personal friend to all of China’s leaders from Mao (who he joined in the Caves of Yunan, and who then sent him to sixteen years in solitary confinement) to Hu Jintao, today’s president.

Perhaps the most famous American in China, and the first American to join the Chinese Communist Party (no longer a member), today Sidney lives between Beijing and Fox Island, spending all of his time helping bridge the gap between these two countries.

What, you didn’t think of this path when wondering what to do with your life? Come and learn how Sidney made his choices, and how they led to the most fascinating of lives.

''He's an enthusiastic, lovely, sensitive friend. I trust this former Communist implicitly.'' – Mike Wallace, CBS’ 60 Minutes.

''Sid Rittenberg is the most fascinating individual I've ever met.'' – Bill Owens, Past CEO, Nortel and Vice Chair, (Pentagon) Joint Chiefs of Staff.

''What you get with Sidney is not only his contacts, but also his understanding of the way [the Chinese] think and work, which is invaluable.'' Mark Anderson, from the New York Times, “A Long March From Maoism to Microsoft” 12.05.2004

The Discovery Series is proudly sponsored by the Spring Street International School.
Students from all schools are encouraged to attend. Adults are welcome, too.

Next Up: Christina Orchid, James Beard Award-Winning Chef, on June 19th.



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Mindy Kayl Announces Her Candidacy

Mindy Kayl has formally announced her candidacy for the position of San Juan County Council, Orcas West (District 4).

Kayle has now joined joined Richard Fralick, who had previously announced his intention to run for the seat (Original story ), which is currently held by Alan Lichter, and who will be campaigning to be re-elected to the position. (Related story)

Kayl sent out a press release stating "Her campaign promise is to clearly and professionally represent you at the county and state level. She pledges to use common sense, courage and creativity to:

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SJ Hospital Medical Center Feasibility Report Published

SJ Hospital Board has scheduled a meetings about a New Integrated Medical Center Feasibility Report that will be discussed with the San Juan County Public Hospital District #1 Board at 5:30 p.m., May 28, 2008 at the Mullis Center. A Special Meeting to provide opportunity for community feedback on the report will be held on June 11, 2008.

The regular monthly meeting on May 28 will include a presentation of the Report of Initial Findings of the Feasibility Assessment about providing enhanced access to healthcare services in the District. The report will be presented by the San Juan Community Hospital Committee assisted by PeaceHealth.

This will be the initial presentation of a large volume of information to the Hospital District Board and the community. Documentation of the report will be available immediately after this meeting, in hardcopy and online at www.sjcommunityhospital.org .

The Special Meeting on Wednesday, June 11, 2008 is to allow for extensive, fully informed discussion with the community. Members of the Assessment Team including Islanders, consultants and PeaceHealth staff will be present to answer questions, listen to feedback and participate in the discussion. The time and location of the special meeting will be announced.

[link]

Trash Speaks for Itself

By Callie Bartlett and Michael Sandifer

When we as a society look at the world around us, what we should see is the thing that enables every aspect of our lives, fostering each of us through the stages of our development.

Yet far too often it appears that people take it for granted, not showing the Earth anywhere close to the degree of respect it should be entitled to. It gives us water, food, a habitat, and even the resources needed to manufacture those Xbox 360’s. And what do many people do to return the favor? They haphazardly litter their trash amongst the beauty of nature.

Litter has a multitude of impacts on the environment. For starters, it takes away from the beauty of a place, and in an area such as ours where tourism is a key component to our economic success, this could potentially have devastating effects. And beyond the cosmetic reasons, litter can be a safety and health hazard for people and animals, particularly aquatic species.

Since we also live near the ocean, protecting our marine life should be a top priority. Habitats can be destroyed when litter covers sea grass beds or smothers out bottom dwellers; debris can affect the water quality by adding chemicals; and it can be lethal to sea animals and birds when they ingest litter or become entangled in ropes, fishing lines, fishing nets, etc. causing them to have problems eating, breathing, and swimming which often times brings fatal results.

In short, litter is nowhere near as innocent as it may seem. We want to encourage everyone to help work together in the Anti-Litter Coalition’s model to stop this crime. In doing so, not only will our island stay the beautiful place we know it as, we will be helping to protect our animals and their habitats, giving our planet the respect and gratitude it deserves.


( Callie Bartlett and Michael Sandifer are Juniors, Friday Harbor High School)
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Lichter to Run for Re-Election

San Juan County Council member Alan Lichter had been undecided if he would seek re-election, but by the end of May he made his decision, and sent out an email that May 26 would be his official announcement date that he will run for re-election for his Orcas West district.

Lichter was elected as a Democrat in 2004 to the three-member Board of County Commissioners that preceded the present Council, defeating the three-term Republican incumbent by more than 1,300 votes.

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Memorial Day Parade and Commemoration

American Legion Post Commander Karl Mueller of Friday Harbor introduced keynote speaker Richard Drury (photo left, a Post member and fellow Vietnam War Veteran, who told the crowd that when he is asked by young people “when was the Vietnam War?”, Drury said he tells them “It is every day”, for it is every day, he explained, that the war is with you.

Drury flew 220 combat missions during the war, and among his many decorations are a Silver Star for gallantry in action, five Distinguished Flying Crosses for heroism in support of troops in contact, search and rescues missions, and 21 Air Medals for meritorious achievement during combat flight missions. Drury and his wife Carol live in Friday Harbor.

Drury is the author of four books, one of which, My Secret War covers the time he spent flying combat mission in Laos and Vietnam.
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SJ County Unemployment Rate At Only 3.6%

The seasonal nature of the San Juan County economy revealed itself again in April. According to preliminary data released by the Washington Employment Security Department the unemployment rate for San Juan County in April was 3.6 percent (not seasonally adjusted).

The April rate was six-tenths of a percentage point below the revised March rate of 4.2 percent. The county’s rate is one percentage point below the state rate, which came in at 4.6 percent (not seasonally adjusted).

The April 2008 unemployment rate of 3.6 percent was four-tenths of a percentage point above the April 2007 rate. While the jobless rate rose somewhat during the past year, employers did manage to add 340 San Juan County residents to their payrolls. The data show that 8,220 San Juan County residents were gainfully employed in April while 310 were looking for work.

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Harold R. Brown, Sr.

June 19, 1914 - May 13, 2008
Harold was born June 19, 1914 in Eagle Grove, Iowa and passed away peacefully at his son Harvey’s home in Friday Harbor, on May 13, 2008, with family and friends at his side.

Harold is survived and greatly missed by his three children Harold, Jr. (and wife Lisa), Allan, and Connie (and husband Chris); his four grandchildren Leila (and Jared), Mitchell, Meaghan, and Max; and his great grandchild Joseph.

Harold lived a full life unique to him and his generation. He was a WWII Army Sergeant who landed on Omaha Beach during the invasion, fought through the Battle of the Bulge and marched his troops across northern France and most of Germany.


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Scenic Walkers

Island Rec and Senior Services (60 and better) have joined together to offer guided walks all around San Juan Island and will be led by Abby Spann, Recreation Specialist. On Friday, May 23rd we will be heading out to Cattle Point to walk the Fish Creek Trail.

To join us all you need to do is call 378-2677 to sign-up, or arrive at the Mullis Center at 10 am the day of the walk with $2 for gas for the van. We return by Noon to the Mullis Center. For more information contact Abby Spann-Recreation Specialist @ 378-4953 with any questions or Curt VanHyning-Senior Services Coordinator @ 378-2677
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Departments Join in Live Fire Training

The San Juan Island Fire Department was joined by firefighters from Friday Harbor in two recent live fire training exercises.

Two structures on False Bay Road were donated to the department for use in training exercises.

Prior to the live fire training, each structure was used in regular Monday night drills to practice search and rescue, and ventilation through holes cut in the roof.

When the time came to burn the structures one was used for practicing initial attack and the second was used for training with compressed air foam applications.

The compressed air foam technology, found on two of San Juan Island Fire Department’s engines, is used to maximize the firefighting capacity of a limited water supply.

The firefighters are very grateful to the Robert Doran family for their generous donation that made this invaluable training possible.

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Guest Editorial

The Costs Of Illegal Immigration By Scott Knutson
I have read some of the comments and articles in The Island Guardian regarding the "illegal" immigration issue, and I share the views of others that this is a federal issue and that the US immigration laws should be fully enforced. I generally remain quiet about these issues, but the fact that the social issues created by illegal immigration are festering in the San Juan Islands is--how shall I say it--disheartening.

I was born is Seattle in 1960 and grew up in Kent, and I own property on Orcas. Although I currently live in California, my roots in Washington where my parents still live, as well as my two brothers and sister; and my daughter is a freshman at UW

As a 20+ year resident of Southern California, I have witnessed the illegal immigration madness first hand. What is happening here and in other small resort communities in Southern California should not be allowed to occur in the San Juan Islands. Down here, there has been a slow erosion over the past 15 years in the quality of public services (medical, schools, etc.) and infrastructure as this area has embraced the mass migration of uneducated, unskilled labor. The question I always ask myself is why is this occurring?

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County & Town Approve Letter On Border Checks

The County and Town of Friday Harbor Councils have approved a letter to U.S. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Larsen, protesting the negative impacts of the on-going border checks at Anacortes.

The County Council had previously voted down sending a letter (prior story), and then after the failed public vote, and without the knowledge of the public -or Councilman Rich Peterson- drafted and approved (by signing) a revised version of the same letter, then sent it off to the FH Town Council for their consideration.

Maintaining the stealthy approach to open government, the discussion of the letter did not show up on the Town agenda, but nonetheless it was discussed at the end of their meeting. After limited discussion, a motion was made to approve the letter -that had been signed by County council members- and make it available for signing by any Town Council members who wished to do so, then the letter was to be forwarded back to the County Council.


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United Way Receives $5,000 Tulalip Tribes Grant

United Way of San Juan County has announced the receipt of a $5,000 grant from the Tulalip Tribes Charitable Fund .

The grant will be used for program support exclusively in San Juan County and will assist in funding programs which provide services to thousands of county residents. According to a Tulalip Tribes spokesperson, “The Tulalip Tribes would like to congratulate this organization for its continued dedication and support for such a worthy cause”.

United Way of San Juan County exists to build a stronger, healthier community by raising resources and developing partnerships that make a measurable difference in people’s lives. “Having a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those in need is at the very core of United Way’s mission” said Bonnie Gilmore, Executive Director. “We are extraordinarily grateful for the generous contribution from the Tribes Charitable Fund.”

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SJC School District Receives New Pledge

(SJISD Superintendent Soltman explains shortfall factors to the SJI Rotary Club)

San Juan Island School District received a new pledge of matching funds money this week that raises the matching funds total to a new high of $135,000.00; but still short of goal.

The San Juan Public Schools Foundation “Save Our Schools” campaign has raised the money in an effort to fully restore program cuts relating to a revenue shortfall.

The new pledge of $50,000 in Matching Funds came from Valmark Inc. (Kings and Marketplace in Friday Harbor). Over the past two weeks over $135,000 has been raised toward matching a $300,000 “Challenge Gift” to mitigate an expected $600,000 operating fund shortfall projected for 2008-09

Superintendent Michael Soltman said, “We are so grateful for this wonderful matching gift from Valmark Inc. Matching funds received so far have allowed the board to restore teaching positions that had been slated for reduction next year; but full restoration of programs are still in need of funding.

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County Sewer Plants Receive DOE Awards

(Town of FH Council member Liz Illg informs Council of award)

A record 78 of the state's 283 wastewater treatment plants reported perfect performances in 2007 to keep Washington's waters clean, and representatives from the Department of Ecology (Ecology) will present "Outstanding Performance Awards" to the plant operators at public events in the coming weeks.

Three of those awards will go to the Eastsound Wastewater Treatment Plant and to Orcas Village, both of which are operated by the Eastsound Water and Sewer District. Also on Orcas, the Washington Water Service Company’s Rosario Wastewater Treatment Plant is a first-time award winner, while Eastsound and Orcas Village join Friday Harbor as repeat winners.

The number of award-winning plants is up dramatically this year, according to records at the Washington. When the regulatory agency began keeping track of perfect records starting in 1995, only 14 plants were in full compliance with the requirements of their wastewater permits. In recent history, the number of perfect performers has consistently climbed from 33 in 2004 up to 48 in 2005 and to 56 in 2006.

The award winners passed every environmental test and analyzed all samples according to Ecology's requirements and had no spills into Washington's waters during 2007.

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Johnson Fundraiser Successful

The Matt Johnson Family fundraiser Saturday night donations, silent and live auction, is $45,000 +. 300 people were served salmon and ling cod.

Jackie and Matt would like to express how deeply thankful they are to all the people and business of Friday Harbor who donated and volunteered to make it possible.

Matt began his chemo therapy just before 11pm Saturday night, and Jackie writes “We are visualizing the chemo attacking the bad cells and destroying them. We are visualizing our God sitting over the bed with us…we know He is.”

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Guest Editorial

The Goal Is Open Government By Lil Hamel

After reading the Island Guardian this morning, I find it sad that the actions of the Council would cause any candidate to consider withdrawing his/her name from the possibility of serving the county.

I am not condemning nor supporting any member of the current council or any of the candidates as I make this statement. I was not at the meeting, so I don’t know exactly what took place.

The whole idea of the Charter Government was to conduct the business of the county more openly with more input from the citizens. As I remember it, the citizens were upset that the three commissioners were doing their business secretly and not seeking the public’s opinions, let alone not listening to the public’s opinion when asked.

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Citizen Input Wanted on Future of the Fairgrounds

The Fair Board has asked the County to consider an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan that will recognize the Fairgrounds for what it is and allow new activities to occur that are both appropriate for its purpose and allow it to generate revenue that will keep the facilities in good health for the long term.

The Fair Board wants to hear from you, the community, about their proposed re-designation application that has been submitted to the Community Development and Planning Department.
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Council Action Turns Off Candidate For The Council

Chuck Rust announced his candidacy for Kevin Ranker’s position on the County Council in April, but now he said he has seen and heard enough to convince him he wants nothing to do with a Council that -among other things- "wastes time."

“I thought the whole thing with the letter (related story) was absurd; they spent time on Monday drafting the letter, and then they redo it on Tuesday.”

Rust has been a frequent observer of the County Council, and was a witness to the Council’s behavior on Tuesday, that was not one of their most shining moments, when they spent an inordinate amount of time drafting a letter, then voting it down, and then in the afternoon session redrafting it by passing it back-and-forth between them while -as far as the public was concerned- working on unrelated agenda items.

Rust said he was aware that the other council members not only did not advise the public they were still working on a draft letter that they had called “dead” in the morning session, but they were also keeping Councilman Rich Peterson in the dark as to what they were doing; which he characterized as “just crazy.”

Rust also was outraged by the actions and comments of Councilman Kevin Ranker, and said had he been a member of the council, he would have been tempted to leave his chair in response to Ranker’s rudeness.

Another San Juan Island citizen who has show some interest in running for Ranker’s seat is Lovel Pratt. Pratt has been showing up at some council meetings, but said while she is giving it some serious consideration, she has yet to make a decision.

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Event to Highlight Local Efforts to Save Salmon

On May 17, 2008, the agency with what is arguably the most awkward name in State Government: the Lead Entity – will sponsor a Salmon Recovery / Lead Entity Day celebration at the Deer Harbor Community Club on Orcas Island. The celebration begins at 10:30 a.m. with live music, a kid’s camp, field trips, music, a few speeches, and lunch.

Billy Frank Jr. of the Nisqually Indian Tribe will deliver the keynote speech. As Chairman of the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission for 22 years, he "speaks for the salmon" on behalf of 19 Treaty Indian Tribes in Western Washington. He is a recipient of the Albert Schweitzer Prize for Humanitarianism.


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Salary Commission Says Enough Already

The San Juan County Salary Commission is responsible for setting the salaries of the County Council, and at their May meeting they decided to send a message to the County Council that they would not consider individual requests from a council member for salary adjustments.

The Commission has been lobbied hard in the past when some of the council members have testified before the Commission, for an increase in the salaries the council members receive.

According to official notes of the recent May meeting, the commission expressed concern about the “uncomfortable situation of individual members in the same position (elected council) trying to influence opinion of the commission as to the salary level.“

The last time the commission took up the matter of council salary range, they decide to keep it as is; but at the May meeting they again received two letters from Council members pertaining to the current salary amount.
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Guest Editorial

More on “Global Warming”! By Charlie Bodenstab

I’m compelled to revisit the issue of global warming due to the constant drumbeat that accompanies the (two past columns) subject. Since the issue has become so politicized, let me state my core belief so that I’m not immediately dumped into the “Global Warming Deniers” category, and then totally dismissed.

* There is no question in my mind that the planet has been gradually warming for the past many decades following a historic pattern of warming and cooling cycles.

* There is no question that we must become better stewards of our environment and make Herculean efforts at maintaining and improving it.

* There is no question that we must reduce our use of hydrocarbons, and particularly that of imported oil.

Having said this, I do not agree that the “debate is over” with the assertion that the primary reason for global warming of the past decades is due to “excessive quantities of manmade CO2 being discharged into the atmosphere”. The arguments offered to support this absolute statement do not appear solid, and, contrary to a plethora of reports, do not have the universal and unequivocal support of the many thousands of scientists.

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Draft Letter On Spot Checks Is Dead, Then Alive

The County Council failed on Tuesday to pass a motion to forward a signed joint letter to the Friday Harbor Town Council for their signature, that would then be sent to U.S. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Larsen, asking that action be taken in response to ferry spot checks in Anacortes.

At some point after the open public meeting, the letter was modified, and then sighed by all of the Councilmen, except Rich Peterson, who was opposed to the content of the letter.

While the draft letter had been strongly supported in the public meeting by Chairman Howard Rosenfeld and Councilman Alan Lichter, there was less support from Councilmen Gene Knapp, Kevin Ranker, and Bob Myhr, but in the end they all signed on to a modified version of it.

Almost immediately after the letter was introduced as an agenda item on Tuesday, Councilman Lichter made a motion to forward the letter to Washington DC, contingent on the approval of the letter by the Town Council. Ranker gave a second, and then discussion began with Myhr, who had been absent for the Monday meeting- recommending striking parts of the letter that implied Border Patrol Agents do not receive adequate training; to which Ranker, Lichter and Rosenfeld agreed.

The letter had been thoroughly deconstructed at the Monday meeting by a thirteen point-by-point criticism from Councilman Rich Peterson, and Councilman Gene Knapp picked up the criticism of the letter on Tuesday by stating in response to the Lichter motion that “I have several problems” with the letter.

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CC Hits Road Fund For Stormwater “Loan”

The County Council’s idea of taking a loan out out from the Land Bank was, in the words of Councilman Rich Peterson, an idea “we have dismissed…as a possible place to go for a loan.”

Peterson Chairs the Council Sub-committee on Stormwater, and explained to the full council that while the Land Bank had not formally turned down the request for a loan, it “generated enough discussion” that the subcommittee now is recommending that the Commission borrow the money from the county Road Fund.

Councilman Kevin Ranker asked County Administrator Pete Rose “what does it mean as far as an impact to our Road Fund, and what is not going to get done that was proposed to be done because were going to pull two million dollars out of the Road Fund?”

Rose said “it should be totally transparent,” adding that in the last two years Public Works has had a “working balance of no less than three and a half million.” Ranker pressed the question, stating “then nothing is not going to be done?” Rose agreed.

Peterson the loan would be a “line of credit”; and clarified the request to the Land Bank as a potential gain to them in so far as the County would pay back the money to the Land Bank at a higher rate than they currently earn on the money. That is, the money the Council plans on obtaining through some new collection means from property owners will be used to pay back any “loans” or “lines of credit.”

The Council reached a consensus on the proposal to bring a draft ordinance to the Council for the May 20th meeting, that will be spell out the reasons, and the mechanics of how the money will be transferred to a stormwater fund to be used to solve the Eastsound stormwater

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Friday Harbor Baseball & Softball Hit-A-Thon

(Mike Herko photo of Mili Holt at last yr event)

Join an annual fundraiser Friday, May 16th at 5:30 p.m. at the Elementary School Baseball Fields;where more than 250 players, ages 5-15, take to the field to see how far they can hit and throw. Before the event, children will be collecting pledges from their friends, family and neighbors in hopes of winning individual and team prizes.

To add to the fun, the concessions stand will be open for dinner and both a dunk tank and speed gun will be at the field to test the pitching arms of anyone who wants to spend $1 for one ball or $5 for six balls. Team coaches, umpires, and other notable community members will be in the dunk tank.

For the past two years the event has raised $10-17,000 for the general fund, a portion of which is earmarked for a new batting cage at the elementary school.

All are encouraged to come enjoy the event. Bring the whole family!


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Town & County Draft Letter On Spot Checks

The Town of Friday Harbor and San Juan County Council have drafted a letter to send to Federal and State Legislators Murray, Cantwell, and Larsen. The letter is about spot checks at the Anacortes Ferry terminal.

The letter starts off with a statement that the Town and County Councils “met in joint session to discuss the increasingly frequent spot checks by the US Border Patrol,” and goes on to state that “both councils ere closely aligned in their concerns…”. But for County Councilman Rich Peterson, the beginning statements in the letter are the first of thirteen statements in a page and a half letter that are, not only incorrect, but in the case of the joint meeting statement, “appears to be an intentionally misleading revision” of an earlier draft letter.
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Chip Seal Work to Begin on Orcas May 12

Weather permitting; the San Juan County Public Works department will begin resurfacing nearly 27 miles of roads on Orcas Island (Full Orcas Schedule -and a link to map- at end of story) beginning on Monday, May 12.

There will be a total of 13 nonrainy working days required to complete the chip sealing, and an additional 35 days spent applying a finishing coat of emulsion, called “fog seal,” to the road’s surface after the chip seal has been put in place. If there are no serious rain delays, the work is expected to be completed by June 3.
Road crews will do more fog sealing this year than in the past. With the exception of a few experimental areas, all of the sections of road to be chipsealed on Orcas will be also be fog sealed – which means that a finishing coat of emulsion will be sprayed onto the road surface after the chipsealing is completed.

Public Works senior project engineer Rachel Dietzman notes that fog sealing increases resurfacing costs by about 25 percent, but the County has found that it dramatically decreases the amount of gravel that comes loose from the seal, improves the appearance of the road striping and should increase its durability The cost of the Orcas road project is expected to total $830,000.
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New Threat Of Building Moratorium

Stephen Ludwig of Lopez, and Dorothy Austin of Orcas, have filed a petition with the Growth Management Hearings Board (Board) asking the Board to stop San Juan County from allowing any additional development in the Eastsound area of Orcas that involves use of septic systems, unless the County can comply with the demands of the Board.

Ludwig and Austin have asked the Board to find the County non-compliant, and to issue a “determination of invalidity”; the result of which would give the Board the power to shut down development in the Eastsound, or -worse case- all of San Juan County.

The odds of this happening are very remote. The County is deeply involved in attempting to solve the “non-compliance” issue, and as long as the Board accepts the explanations and good-faith efforts of the County to reach compliance, the Board will continue to work with the County; as they have for nearly a decade now, in reaching compliance.
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SJC Firefighters Take Advance Testing

(contributed photo)
Firefighters from San Juan Island, Lopez Island and Snohomish County participated in an International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) Firefighter 2 certification test recently held at the SJI Fire headquarters on Mullis St.

The written test and practical skills evaluation are based on a nationally recognized curriculum. This is the same certification undertaken by firefighters in larger departments like Seattle and Tacoma. Firefighter 2 represents an advanced level of skill and ability. It is founded on the basic information and abilities the candidates learn during the Firefighter 1 recruit class. This is the first time this level of evaluation and certification has been available in the county.


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SJI Dog Park Trotting Along

The “Eddie & Friends Dog Park” Steering Committee announced today that with over a third of necessary funds raised, site preparation and construction will begin soon.

“Strong community support is allowing us to move from the planning stage to action in making our dog park a reality,” commented Lori Stokes, co-chair of the Steering Committee, “This is a very exciting step for our community.”

Jim Stegall, one of the key organizers of the dog park effort , added, “We know that once people see the park being built, the additional funds we need will be donated. We’re building it, and they will come.”


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$275K Raised For SJI School District

San Juan Island School Superintendent Michael Soltman has reported impressive community response to a call for help in balancing the budget. A budget that is short by $600K. A budget that is required to be balanced by May 15.

Soltman said on Wednesday that local donors have coordinated efforts, and have so far pledged $275,000 -with more expected- toward a “Challenge Gift” to the School District designed to offset otherwise potential program reductions required to meet the budget requirements.

SJ islander Charles Anderson is the current Chair of the San Juan Island Community Foundation Board, and said, "these donors are committed to ensuring that our schools will continue to provide an outstanding education on San Juan Island." Anderson is optimistic that other donors will soon step forward to preserve school programs in precognition of the importance of education to a healthy community.

San Juan County is not alone in finding that money is not there for all of the programs. In an email, Soltman stated there are “significant program cutting” in other school districts..due to inadequate basic education funding.”

Soltman pointed out that “SJISD (San Juan Island School District) was early in identifying this problem this year due to our ability to work with our business manager, Ben Thomas, and Northwest ESD to run the revenue formulas over a month ago. Our early analysis has allowed our community to have more indepth conversation and understanding of this issue, and to have the time to work together to address this challenge through local fundraising efforts.”

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Change Your Schools

By Dan & Liz Seaton

By now you have heard the rumors…. the staggering numbers… the cuts and it’s time to take action before we loose what makes up our schools. By May 15th the School has to present a balanced budget and if you are not aware, we are approximately $600,000 short.

These shortages are going to continue if the economy continues to falter, and we can not depend on it to change over night at the state level. We have to act at the community level today!

After the public meeting on Thursday it was clear that we as a community have to take action if we are going to preserve our teachers our programs and our future.

There was a gentleman that spoke at lasts nights meeting and he made a great suggestion that if every family invested $100 towards our children and the school that our shortfall would diminish greatly. We encourage those of you that can contribute that or even more to please do so. We also realize there are a lot of families that are not in the position to contribute at that level and we are proposing :

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Deja-vu All Over Again

(Meeting on Orcas with Boarder Patrol Deputy Chief Giuliano)


Give or take drifters in and out of the room, 60 people showed up on Orcas Tuesday to speak to, and ask questions of, Border Patrol Deputy Chief Joseph Giuliano about the Anacortes spot checks. Giuliano had held a similar County Council public meeting with the Council in Friday Harbor in April to discuss immigration issues. Not much came out of that meeting, except for the debunking of some rumors, confirmation of others, and assurance that the spot checks would not be going away anytime soon.

Council Chair Howard Rosenfeld had informed the council at a later meeting that Giuliano had agreed to attend the scheduled May meeting on Orcas. While it was assumed the meeting would only serve to allow more venting of frustrations over the delays caused by the stops, the potential impacts on tourism related business, and concerns on curtailing of civil liberties, the meeting did produce some productive and informative dialog with the public.

While many of the questions had already been asked and answered at the Friday Harbor meeting, a question from Councilman Kevin Ranker generated new information when Ranker asked Giuliano “where was the decision made to target Anacortes?’ Giuliano responded “I’ll tell you right up front that I signed off on it.”

This may not have been the answer that Ranker expected, and he was for a moment unsure what to say, then stated “so you and your staff said this is a good place to target..” Giuliano explained that the local sectors in the country decide how to implement the general sense of direction given by the D.C. office.

Ranker then asked what information did Giuliano need to reverse his decision. Giuliano responded that they are “already in somewhat of a measured reversal; we have cut the frequency down by one-half” and added that based on intelligence that is coming in they can continue to cut back, and that “I have no problem putting mitigation in place to, for example, address weekend tourist traffic.”

Ranker then turned away from questioning, and told the Council he wanted to ask for help from their federal delegation in reversing the spot checks. Both Ranker and Rosenfeld have been pushing to send a joint Town of Friday Harbor and County Council letter to various politicians, asking them to take action to end the spot checks, but so far all they had was a draft letter that was not approved for signing.

Ranker said “our federal delegation can make this stop, they the have the ability to make this stop, and we need to stand up and ask for that.”

Councilman Alan Lichter responded to Rankers suggestion by asking Giuliano if “can in fact the federal legislators deflect your mission here, and if so, how can that be done?” Giuliano explained that he has stood before Senators Cantwell and Murray more than once” to explain why the checks are in place. He told Lichter that the legislators power “rests in their power to legislate” and if they change the law, then he would follow accordingly, but as “far as walking across the hall and saying “I don’t want this to happen anymore…that doesn’t work very well.”

Ranker was not impressed, and asked Giuliano if there would be any impact if the local legislators called his office. In response Giuliano reminded Ranker that he has been talking to them for months..and Ranker interrupted him to say he believed that “a little bit more pressure could slow or stop this (spot checks) over night.”

Ranker then made a motion for the Council to sign a letter next week to send to D.C that would ask for direct action, but given the letter was only a draft, the motion failed for lack of a second. Then meeting ended with the San Juan Island contingent heading for the ferry terminal; leaving Rosenfeld behind to allow more people to discuss the issues with Giuliano.


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Council Will Advertise For Committee Openings

The County Council is wrestling with when and how to make appointments to citizens advisory groups and committees. The problem arose when Councilman Rich Peterson asked why an applicant was moving forward to appointment without the Council having advertised there was an opening.

During the discussion the pros and cons of having some citizens sitting on more than one committee was reviewed, and there was some questioning was there a balance on the committees, not only in views, but also in island representation. Some committees require a balance, and some do not.

The question caused the Council to review and discuss past policies, and Peterson suggested that each year when an expiration occurred the council would interview any and all applicants, including someone that has already served and wishes to be reappointed.

Councilman Kevin Ranker agreed that if at the end of a term a person sitting on a committee wished to remain, they would need to apply for the position with anyone else who had shown an interest. Ranker said that “the historical knowledge is really important on these committees; and the last thing we want to do is push away good volunteers in our community,” but added that all applicants should be treated equally in the selection process.

Councilman Alan Lichter said that asking the chair of a committee about the performance of a sitting member was also helpful in making a selection.

County Administrator Pete Rose reminded the Council they had directed staff to draft a policy on how they appoint; but agreed that they will advertise all openings as they come up


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Money Up Front For That Building Permit

Starting next week on the 12 of May, applicants for a building permit from the County will have to figure out what the project may cost, and then pay a fee based on that amount.

The building fee schedule is a part of Ordinance 49-2007, which sets all of the fees for CD&P (Community Development & Planning). They will begin implementing the collection of estimated Plan Review Fees at the time of Building Permit application submission.

This requires that the permit applicant provide an estimated valuation of all the work, including materials and labor, for which the permit is being issued, such as electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing equipment and permanent systems. If the estimate is too low (according to CD&P), then one will be charged more.

The estimated valuation should be equal to the contract cost a contractor would charge for all the work, utilizing new commercially available construction materials. The estimated valuation does not include the cost of the land or non-building site improvements.

What happens if the estimate is too high? Will the County come back to the applicant with a refund check? Or what if the applicant believes the estimate by the County is incorrect? The County will not use actual costs to determine the fee, but a guideline that sets arbitrary amounts for the cost of construction.

The ordinance states an applicant can appeal a code interpretation by paying an appeal fee of $525.00; but what about an appeal of a permit fee? The intent of the interpretation fee is to pay for the cost when the department is asked to respond to a land use or building code ruling; but will the County also charge a fee for an appeal of a finding of construction costs, based on the code, when the applicant questions the amount?

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“Spring Fling” Auction For Spring Street School

Spring Street International School is hosting their annual “Spring Fling” auction at the San Juan Island Yacht Club in Friday Harbor, Washington, Saturday May 10, 2008, from 5:30 to 9:00pm Tickets available at door or by calling (378-6393) in advance.

The public is asked to join in celebrating their 13th year of quality education with a worldview!

Spring Street International School is a highly regarded independent school that gives financial assistance to many of our island families. In order to do this, we count on funds generated by fundraising events such as our annual “Spring Fling” auction.

Mark your calendars for a great night out! Find a great gift for Mother’s Day: Works of Art, trip adventures, weekend packages, local crafts, accents, ethnic food, drink, music, dancing and a great cause to support. Kick up your heels for kids: Entertainment by: Stephen Keys and Friends

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Donor For Matt Johnson Found

Matt Johnson started his preparation for a bone marrow transplant with a physical and another blood transfusion on Thursday May 1. The good news is that a donor's been identified (a 28 year old female) and she is having her physical exam this week.

Until the point of beginning chemo on the 17th, he'll be in and out Fred Hutchison with various tests They'll be continuing with physical testing and provide education regarding food safety and what will be expected after the transplant which is tentatively scheduled for May 23rd.


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Houston Taylor Awarded As A Red Cross Real Hero

Houston Taylor, R.N., has been selected as a “Real Hero” by the Anacortes-San Juan Islands Chapter of the American Red Cross for his tireless efforts to provide hospice care to San Juan County patients.

When Taylor saw a need for hospice care services in the San Juan Islands, he did NOT say, “Someone should do something about that.” He took it on.

Houston approached Skagit Hospice for the training he would need to deliver care to islanders on his days off, and he labored 24/7 for over a year to provide education on end-of-life issues and support for family, patient and physician to manage symptoms.

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Heritage Vessel: Pacific Catalyst

The historic Pacific Catalyst is a restored 1932 wooden vessel. Her maiden voyage was up the Inside Passage and across the Gulf of Alaska, beginning her oceanographic research for the University of Washington’s, Friday Harbor Labs, and the marine sciences community.

The Catalyst has been thoroughly and richly restored, and now takes visitors on marine adventures in the Salish Sea and north into Alaska and Canada.

Friday Harbor is her home base, and is currently moored in the Friday Harbor Marina. For more information call 360.378.7123 or visit http://www.pacificcatalyst.com/index.htm.
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H. Ramsay Milne

October 28, 1924 - April 29, 2008
Born in South Africa to British parents on October 28, 1924, H. Ramsay Milne died in Friday Harbor, Washington on April 29, 2008. He was 83.

He had lived on San Juan Island since 1994 after retiring from an award winning journalism career in which he covered the beginning of the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.
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Deck Collapse Injuries 4 On SJI

At approximately 11:09 PM Friday night May 2, 2008 emergency workers from San Juan Emergency Medical Services, San Juan Fire District 3 and the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a wooden deck collapsing away from a double wide mobile home.

The residence is located off Miller Road, on Crestview Drive, overlooking a steep incline. Investigators found that 4 people were injured. The injured people were evacuated by ambulance to Inter Island Medical Center. Two of the injured were flow by helicopter to mainland hospitals for further evaluation and two were treated at the Medical Center and released. The injured had been attending a small gathering at the residence.

The deck, apparently suddenly and without warning, gave way while these 4 individuals were standing on it. The cause for the collapse remains under investigation, though age and condition of the wood structure are considered as major factors in the collapse. The events surrounding this incident are under investigation.


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Wynn Barnard a Winner For Soroptimists

(Contributed photo)
The Friday Harbor Soroptimists are very proud of FHHS senior Wynn Barnard, who was honored on Saturday, April 26, at a regional conference of the Soroptimists held in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Back in February, Wynn received the local club’s Violet Richardson Award, ( RELATED STORY) which is presented annually to a young woman in our community between the ages of 14 and 17, who is committed to making the world a better place and has had significant and noteworthy accomplishments as a volunteer. Wynn’s application was then passed on to the regional organization of the club, and she was chosen from among 72 other girls for the regional-level award.

At last week’s conference awards luncheon, Wynn was presented with two checks for $1000 each – one for herself and one for the volunteer organization she helped to found at the high school, Village-to-Village. She spoke to a group of almost 400 Soroptimists about her project, which supports village schools in impoverished villages both in Peru and in Kenya.

This is the very first time that an award winner from the Friday Harbor club has ever been selected as the award recipient at the regional level of the Soroptimist organization. Congratulations, Wynn!

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Spring Into Action At SJI Children's Festival Saturday

From crazy jumprope tricks to rockin' karaoke to a presentation by local Mexican Folklore dancers, the San Juan Island 18th Annual Children's Festival: Spring into Action offers plenty of lively fun.

The free event at the San Juan County Fairgrounds on May 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. is packed with entertainment, hands-on activities, and yummy food for children of all ages.

Highlighting the fun is Rene Bibaud of "Ropeworks" (photo left) with her incredible jumprope stunts and tricks. Rene, who has performed with Cirque du Soleil will present two live shows both involving audience participation - so come prepared to get active!
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Will He Run Again?

It is clear from the spate of recent announcements that the local political scene has sprung to life in San Juan County. While a number of elected officials, and would be officials, have formally announced they will be running for office, one has yet to decide. County Councilman Alan Lichter of Orcas is still undecided if he will stand for reelection for Orcas West, District 4.

When asked what might cause him to decide to stand for re-election, Lichter said “the essential element in my thinking is that I've got a number of issues and programs started that I'd like to advance to a successful and secure place in county governance.”

Lichter added that he is “weighing the chances of success, given the changed structure of county government, budget considerations, the present and probable future direction of the county council,” as some of the issues that will influence his final decision; but that he expects he will announce his intentions in the near future.

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Community Action Month

(John Manning accepts a certificate proclaiming May as “Community Action Month”)

The San Juan County Council has proclaimed May to be “Community Action Month” and cited the Opportunity Council, the Community Action Agency in San Juan County, for 43 years of service to the citizens of Northwest Washington.

The Opportunity Council was one of nearly 1,000 Community Action Agencies created nationally by the “War on Poverty” and the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. It provides a variety of services to low income and homeless people in San Juan, Whatcom and Island Counties.

Last year the Council provided home energy assistance to more than 100 families in San Juan County and did extensive weatherization to nine homes in the County at a cost of more than $8,500 each.

In addition to recognizing the Agency’s work, the Council authorized the signing of a letter of support for the Opportunity Council’s application for $100,000 federal grant to provide housing assistance to low income residents in the three counties it serves.





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