A-Town is our Town - Spring Edition

ANACORTES BRIEFINGS QUARTERLY MENU COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

City of Anacortes 6th and Q www.cityofanacortes.org 360-293-1900

Photo by Wallie Funk

City Volunteers The City of Anacortes relies heavily upon volunteers for all sorts of tasks. We are very grateful to all of them. It is their kind of support and assistance that helps make Anacortes such a great place to live, work, play, retire, visit, etc.

We're going to highlight one or some of those volunteers in the A-town publication each quarter but want to stress that they are one of many who volunteer. They have the honor of ‘carrying the flag’ for a team’s worth of effort and we appreciate all who assist.

By Mayor Laurie Gere

At my recent State of the City presentation I reflected on the rich history of our town.

Anacortes has grown from a small fishing and mill town to a vibrant community focused on the maritime industry, manufacturing, oil refining, healthcare and education systems. We are a growing tourist destination with art galleries, terrific shops, and wonderful restaurants. We have protected and honored our working waterfront history and treasured local character.

Today we are closing on the goal of completing our 2016 Comprehensive Plan, which will provide a blueprint and vision for the future. The City Council and I share a commitment to the creation of a strategic, proactive plan for economic opportunities. We will make provision for retail, housing, and transportation, with land use codes that support our growth, infrastructure and business development needs.

Anacortes has a projected population of 22,000 over the next 20 years (2036), a 36 percent increase from our current population. Our challenge is to continue to provide all the essential needs and services to meet our demands, while protecting our quality island life.

Bob Allan Retires as Leadbetter Clock Winder Many thanks to volunteer Bob Allan, who has been keeping the Leadbetter Clock wound for two decades. Bob is “winding down,” and has handed over the clock keys to Educator and W.T. Preston Curator Bret Lunsford.

Among other priorities, we are exploring broadband as a utility just like our other utilities – water, sewer, and streets. An affordable, reliable high-speed fiber optic network will benefit all citizens, industries, businesses, health care and K-12 education systems in our community.

Your continued participation and input are vital to accomplishing goals that reflect our collective values. Every voice matters to me. I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming city meeting or at one of my monthly coffees. I appreciate your support.

Bob has deep roots in Anacortes — his family ran Allan’s Market in the Mercantile/Majestic building for many years. He took over care of the clock shortly after he moved back to Anacortes in 1995.

The Anacortes Museum is grateful to Bob for his many years of volunteer service.

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cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1900

AERIE

Table of Contents

New Roundabout Sculpture by artist Merrilee Moore

ANACORTES BRIEFINGS

It took a while, but Aerie, the new roundabout sculpture by artist Merrilee Moore has been installed.

The Arts Commission believes it was worth the wait. Aerie means a lofty nest of a large bird. It is created out of stainless steel and stands approximately 18 feet tall. It now greets visitors coming and going through the roundabout at the entry to town.

Aerie was selected through a fairly extensive process. The first step was deciding the criteria for the project.

The Anacortes Arts Commission determined that the piece should fit the site and relate to Anacortes, be equally visible from multiple vantage points, be easily maintained and of durable material. The Commission then selected a jury consisting of five community members. The jury included both individuals with a background in sculpture, as well as at-large community members.

A regional call for artwork was placed. The jury reviewed all the work submitted, and recommended that three artists be asked to do more detailed presentations of their proposals. At the end of the process, the jury recommended Aerie to the Commission. The Arts Commission in turn approved the jury’s selection and passed the recommendation along to the City Council who concurred with their recommendation.

public fundraising of approximately $19,000 with the City of Anacortes rounding out the funding for the $35,000 sculpture.

The Anacortes Arts Commission would like to thank artist Merrilee Moore and the jury for their time and vigilance during the selection process. We also like to thank the City, the Anacortes Arts Festival and all of the donors who helped fund this special project.

Mayor Laurie Gere............................... 2 City Volunteers.................................... 2 Aerie Roundabout Sculpture............ 3 Councilmember Perspective............. 4 Spray Pad Water Feature.................... 5 Anacortes Inside Out.......................... 5 Ambulance Services Are Funded..... 6 EMS Service Model............................. 6 Look up at the Library........................ 7 Love Old House................................... 7 Anacortes Police Department.......... 7

PARKS AND RECREATION Quarterly Menu................................... 8 Recreation Programs................. 9 - 14

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS Anacortes Senior College................15 Anacortes Soo Bahk Do...................16 Fidalgo Pool.......................................17 Senior Activity Center......................18 Friends of the Forest.........................19 Class Act School Performing Arts.....20 Fidalgo Dance Works........................21 Academic Adventures......................22 Friends of Skagit Beaches................23 Anacortes Public Library.......... 24, 25 Transition Fidalgo.............................26 Native Plant Society..........................26 Art In Bloom.......................................27 News From Washington Park..........28 Tough Year For Policing....................29 Comprehensive Plan Update..........30 Kids R Best Fest..................................30 Art of Gardening...............................30 Energy Efficiency Challenge............31 Anacortes Museum.................... 32, 33 City Council Members......................34 Readers Question..............................34 Our Drug Problem.............................35 Volunteer Needed at Anacortes Fire Department............35

The funding of the piece was a community effort – including $10,000 from the Anacortes Arts Festival, private donations and 360.293.1900 cityofanacortes.org CITY OF ANACORTES

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A Councilmember Perspective on City Government committees and make the final decisions on Comprehensive Plan & Development Regulation proposals. We also consider ordinance and resolution proposals, approve funding for capital projects, and act as liaisons between City Hall and the general public.

Mondays night responsibilities switch off, either as Council meetings with formal agendas, or study sessions used to review and discuss miscellaneous topics.

By Brad Adams

A

s an Anacortes City Councilmember, I always look forward to Monday nights in the fall. No, not because of Monday night football, but because it’s the time of year when the budget process really heats up.

Each fall the Mayor kicks off the budget season by presenting a proposed budget to the Council. We review it with staff, weigh in on public comments, and help determine funding allocations. It’s the Council that approves the final version, and it all has to be wrapped up by the end of the year – even before the Super Bowl.

For those who don’t know, your City Council is comprised of seven city residents who are elected to fouryear terms: three ward positions that represent specific neighborhoods, and four at-large positions that represent the community as a whole.

As the legislative branch of local government, the Council has a broad range of responsibilities (like Congress at the federal level). It’s the Council as a whole, not individual Councilmembers, that makes policy and planning decisions. We serve on

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I believe participation at Council meetings is the most important role of an individual Councilmember. We have full authority to make and second motions, participate in discussions, and vote on every matter before the Council.

We engage in all sorts of presentations, deliberate and vote on ordinances and resolutions, and make land use decisions.

We also discuss and approve funding options for capital projects, and receive updates and provide input on all sorts of ongoing city business.

Council votes resulting in 4-3 margins are always memorable, particularly as they relate land-use decisions. These proposals often have a lasting impact on the future of our community and it can take weeks or even months to work through the process.

Your City government rarely acts in haste. By the time any given project is ready for a vote there have been staff reviews, code and development regulation reviews, public hearings, Planning Commission discussions/ recommendations, closed record hearings and finally a Council motion and a vote.

It’s a process that exemplifies local government at its best: community engagement, a careful and deliberate process, and ideally, a decision that best reflects that process.

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1900

Planning for future development of Anacortes is also an important aspect of Council priorities. Unique for 2015, the community is in the middle of an update to the City’s Comprehensive Plan.

As part of the most comprehensive public planning process I’ve ever experienced, the Council will start formulating the drafts of the plan into final versions. Once complete, the final product will be the strategic plan that steers our community toward economic vitality, population increases, and landuse decisions for years to come.

Now back to those Monday nights in the fall. A discussion, motion, and a vote at a City Council meeting might not seem as exciting as the punts, passes, and kicks of Monday night football. But the interplay of local government is where vital local civic action happens, often with lasting impact.

If you’re inspired, I encourage you to take it up a notch from spectator status to active participant. The public is always welcome and there is usually opportunity for public involvement. That’s Monday nights at 7 p.m.

Postscript: I’ve been a member of the City Council since 2004. Previously, I served on the Anacortes Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission from 19972003. It was as a citizen advisor that I developed a keen sense of the need for all City Departments to have the resources they need to be successful. Our Parks and Recreation Department is second to none, but all of our City Departments are interdependent in terms of the successful delivery of services. As a Councilmember, I’m always looking for that balance and doing what I can to ensure it happens.

Having strong City services and resources is a key component of a healthy and vibrant community. I can always be reached at e-mail: brada@cityofanacortes. org or phone 360-391-9771.

Spray Pad Water Feature Storvik Park, locally famous for a playground built in large part through cash contributions and volunteer labor from the community, is the proposed location for a new “spray pad” water feature that could prove to be a tourism draw as well.

City funds are earmarked and community fund-raising is already underway for a combination spray pad/public restroom project the City hopes to see supplemented by a $320,000 state grant.

The spray pad is designed to provide a range of interactive spray elements in forms appropriate for our marine community.

If this dream comes true as the “Our Town Our Park” dream did at Storvik in 2008, kids could soon be found splashing through a corner of the park featuring water shooting up from sources including starfish, harbor seals and seagulls on posts.

“The spray pad is designed to provide a range of interactive spray elements in forms appropriate for our marine community,” said Parks and Recreation Coordinator Nicole Johnston. “We call our design a ‘marine adventure,’ where many native Northwest creatures will be featured as spray elements.”

Unlike swimming or wading pools, aquatic playgrounds have no standing water. Motion activated sprays come out of the ground among multicolored decks representing pathways and waterways.

The City of Mount Vernon already offers such a park feature, and Anacortes City Councilmember Ryan Walters said he has stopped by to see lots of children – and lots of smiling faces.

In addition to the spray pad, plans call to replace an antiquated public restroom adjacent to the existing playground area. Total project estimate is $652,000, with a goal of raising $150,000 in the community.

One donor alone has given $20,000, with hints that another such donation could be forthcoming in their next budget year.

If things go as planned, City and community funds will be combined toward a 50 percent matching grant from the Washington Wildlife Recreation Program. For more information, or to make a donation, visit www.anacortesparksfoundation. org, or call the Parks and Recreation Department at 293-1918.

Anacortes Inside Out Come to City Hall 904 6th St, Anacortes to view the NEW rotating artwork exhibition titled “Anacortes Inside Out”.

Anacortes artists include Caroline Garland, John Parks, Leslie Dorn, Cynthia Richardson, Lonny Heiner, Jazz Morgan, Julia Lathrop, Dederick Ward, Jan Kelly, Lance Ekhart, Keith Sorenson, Marius Hubbard, Tony Locke, Kay Mattson Ferris and Charlotte Joy Chase.

The twice-annual rotating exhibition is being organized by the Anacortes Arts Commission to showcase local talent. It will remain up until June.

Front cover: “Barge Brilliance”

by Jan Kelly CITY OF ANACORTES

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Anacortes is one of three contractors providing paramedic ambulance services and receives approximately $800,000 of the EMS levy funds to partially fund two paramedic ambulances.

Skagit County collects an EMS levy of 37.5 cents per $1,000 property value. The Anacortes ambulance service area generates approximately $1,500,000 in tax revenue

How Your Paramedic Ambulance Services Are Funded $700,000 of the City of Anacortes’ sales and property taxes are allocated to paramedic ambulance services.

Patients and or their health insurance who are transported are charged for services which produces approximately $900,000 in funding.

The Anacortes Fire Department provides paramedic ambulance services to Fidalgo and Guemes Islands

Regional EMS Service Model Unique to Fidalgo and Guemes Our status as an island community sets us apart from our Skagit neighbors in many ways.

You don’t expect to see a ferry in SedroWoolley, for example, and a waterfront view in Mount Vernon means proximity to the Skagit River as opposed to a saltwater bay dotted with islands.

Many are surprised to learn, however, that our paramedic/ambulance services set us apart as well. Of all Skagit County fire agencies, Anacortes Fire Department is the only one to provide emergency medical service under the umbrella of the tax-supported Skagit County Medic One system.

“Our department has been providing paramedic/ambulance services to Fidalgo and Guemes islands since the Eighties,” said Fire Chief Richard Curtis. “We believe that dual purpose role is an effective, costefficient way of providing service for our regional community.”

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Most AFD firefighters are cross-trained as paramedics, and the approximate number of annual emergency EMS responses is 2,500, compared to about 500 fire responses (includes car accidents, fire alarms, downed power lines). Of those 2,500 EMS responses, about 70 percent of the patients are transported to the hospital.

“Emergency medical calls are a critical part of the service we provide,” reports the fire chief. “Since Fidalgo and Guemes island property owners contribute annually to a county-wide EMS levy, I believe it is essential that our taxpayers understand how local services are funded.”

“We believe our island region is best served by our dual role model,” said Curtis, who advocates the AFD’s continued distinction as the only area fire department providing paramedic/ambulance service. “Even though other models are used to serve other parts of the county, we believe our unique island needs are best served with the long-established dual service system.”

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“I have been with Anacortes now for 18 years and have never been more honored to work with the professionals who work and volunteer with the Anacortes Fire Department,” he said. “This community enjoys committed firefighters, paramedics and EMTs, the majority living here on Fidalgo Island. On a professional level, they are available and often return to work at a moment’s notice to handle emergencies when needed for our region, Fidalgo and Guemes islands.”

Look Up! Next time you are at the library be sure to look up!

A group of local citizens banded together to purchase a 17.3 kW solar array and is leasing space for the array (made in Washington) on the library roof. Our partnership is similar to the Skagit Community Solar array on the Anacortes Middle School roof. The Anacortes Library Community Solar group will own the solar array until 2020 when the city has the option to purchase the array for $1. Until then, we are happy to see a reduction in the electricity purchased from PSE to power the library facility.

We look forward to an informational kiosk in our lobby which will include a live display of the energy production of the solar array.

Baidarka If you haven’t noticed what is hanging above our Reference desk by our Maritime collection, look up! The Library Foundation received a wonderful gift of a re-creation of an Aleut iqyak or Russian baidarka from James McMullen, owner of Emerald Marine, to complement our Maritime collection. McMullen built the baidarka in 1996 and according to the creator, it was constructed without any glue or metal fasteners and contains a variety of different woods including sitka spruce, yellow cedar, and fresh-harvested green willow. We have more information about the baidarka in our Maritime section of the library.

Love your old house but tired of being cold?

Looking for ways to increase the energy efficiency of your older home while protecting its historic integrity? The Anacortes Historic Preservation Board presents an Energy Efficiency Workshop for historic homes, 7 pm Wednesday May 27 at the Anacortes Library. Harrison Goodall (Principal at Conservation Services, Langley, WA) and Sarah Steen (Preservation Coordinator, Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve) conduct a free workshop that will focus on myths around old home construction, the value of original windows, and the best ways to improve energy efficiency for comfort in your old home. For additional information contact the Anacortes Museum: at 360/293-1915.

Anacortes Police Department Volunteer Citizen Patrol Does this scenario entice you— patrolling the streets and alleys of Anacortes for 2-3 hours at a time? How about ongoing training opportunities that will sharpen patrol skills and provide first-hand insight into the life and work of a law enforcement officer?

Since 1992, volunteer citizens have spent hours patrolling our streets, parks, and trailheads to assist in keeping Anacortes beautiful and safe. In 2014, 60 volunteers logged more than 2,700 hours performing property checks, directing traffic, and providing a variety of other tasks that supplement the work of the Anacortes Police Department.

A recent conversation with 20 year Auxiliary Patrol veteran Joann Hannan spurred memories of years back when the Anacortes Police Headquarters was still on 12th Street and the Auxiliary Patrol car did not have a radio. She had nothing but positive things to say about her experience, not the least of which are many positive relationships that developed throughout her years on patrol.

Much has changed in 20 years, but the work and heart of the unit remains the same—to contribute to the improvement of the quality of life in the City of Anacortes by preventing criminal activity.

Want to learn more about the work of the Auxiliary Patrol in our community? Contact CSO Karl Wolfswinkel at 360-293-4684 or karlw@cityofanacortes.org.

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Quarterly Menu

PARKS STAFF Director

Gary Robinson Parks/Forest Manager

Jonn Lunsford

Washington Park Manager

Bob Vaux

Recreation Manager

Dustin South

Recreation Coordinator

Nicole Johnston

Administrative Assistant

Valora Sandstrom Department Secretary

Mary Snyder

Maintenance/ACFL

Dave Oicles

Maintenance Foreman

Chuck Arnesom Maintenance

Brian Strickland Maintenance

Heather Brennan Maintenance

Brian Tottenham Maintenance

Jim Rains

HANDY NUMBERS CITY HALL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293-1900 PARKS AND RECREATION. . . . . 293-1918 PLANNING DEPARTMENT.. . . . 293-1907 PERMIT CENTER.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293-1901 MAYOR’S OFFICE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 299-1950 HUMAN RESOURCES. . . . . . . . . . . . . 299-1941 PUBLIC WORKS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293-1919 LIBRARY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293-1910 MUSEUM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293-1915 FIRE DEPARTMENT.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293-1925* POLICE DEPARTMENT. . . . . . . . . 293-4684*

The Menu is published four times per year Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall. The next issue (Summer) should be in mailboxes around the end of May. The current issue will have events and programs offered by the Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department. The menu can also be viewed on our website at www.cityofanacortes.org.

REGISTRATION PROCEDURES Some classes require a minimum number of participants registered to be held. These such classes are canceled if the minimums are not met. Therefore, if you sign-up for a class, please plan on participating. If you need to cancel your registration, please notify the parks and recreation staff as soon as possible before the first day of the class.

The Parks and Recreation Department will start taking online registrations for most programs on Monday, March 23rd. Please be aware that in order to register for classes, payment will be required up front. Registration will also take place by going to the parks and recreation page: www.cityofanacortes.org.

Participants may still register over the phone. This can be done by

*EMERGENCIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dial 911

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cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

giving a debit/credit card number.

Or, if participants would rather register in person, that can be done at the parks and recreation office (City Hall, 6th and Q) where cash, check, and debit/ credit cards will be accepted.

INSURANCE: APRD does not have medical insurance coverage for program participants and is not responsible for injuries that may occur as a result of participation in City sponsored recreational activities.

PLEASE NOTE The City of Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department does not discriminate against any person on the basis of gender in the operation, conduct, or administration of community athletic programs or sports facilities. Any citizen who feels she or he has been the victim of discriminatory treatment in violation of this policy should report this concern to the Parks and Recreation Director, Gary Robinson, at 293-1918.

ACCESSIBILITY If reasonable accommodation due to a disability is needed, please contact Mac Jackson (299-1961) at least 48 hours prior to meeting or event date.

Egg Dash

Dog Obedience

Come join us at Storvik Park for this annual event.

Kids 12 and under will get the chance to dash for plastic eggs filled with candy and other fun surprise. Be on time for this egg hunt is over quick!

LOCATION: Storvik Park INSTRUCTOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: OPEN FEE: FREE Ages Day Date 12&Under Fri 4/3

Time 6:00P

Back by popular demand!!! Train your dog to respond to your commands. We are offering both a Beginner and an Intermediate class. To sign up for either class, please visit the Parks and Recreation web page at: www.cityofanacortes.org.

Attendance at the first class is mandatory. Please do not bring dogs to first class. Important class information will be discussed at this time. This is a very popular class and will fill quickly. Limited space is provided so register early! Participants in class will receive a clicker and 15’ long line as part of their registration fee.

LOCATION: Whitney Elementary - outside covered area INSTRUCTOR: Marie Padovan MIN/MAX: 4/10 FEE: $84 Ages Day Date Time 16+ Wed 4/29 - 6/10 6-7P Do not bring dogs the first night of class.

Tango Tuesday

Gentle Yoga

Come experience the beautiful dance and music of Argentine Tango. Learn basic skills which will enable you to attend social tango dances and feel at home on the dance floor. Students will receive links to videos which support class instruction as well as a tango terms list. Studies rate dance and specifically tango at the top of the list for enhancing brain health. You don’t even need to bring your own partner. (If you sign up as a couple the fee is $40) A Practica follows this class from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. This is open to the public as well as class students. A drop in fee for “Tango Practica” is $3 an evening and are available for purchase on our online registration webpage. Pay $15 for 5 sessions that can be used when convenient for you.

LOCATION: the Depot (611 R Ave) INSTRUCTOR: Pamela Good MIN/MAX: 5/30 FEE: $25 ($40 per couple) Ages Day 18+ Tues

Date Session 1 - 4/7-28 Session 2 - 5/5-26 Session 3 - 6/2-23

Time 6-7P 6-7P 6-7P

Yoga is a great healing art that fosters calm concentration, reduces chronic pain, counteracts stiffening from age or inactivity, strengthens the immune system and enhances clear thinking.

Accommodations are taught for those with limitations due to injury, etc. Kate Bowers teaches yoga with a light hearted, compassionate approach that fosters self-acceptance and increased selfconfidence. She integrates traditional hatha yoga with breath work and neurotherapy play to sharpen thinking and improve memory. For Spring we are offering a 12-week program. Bring a blanket and firm pillow or extra firm blanket. Payment is required at the time of registration. Registration is available online. **Late registrations will be taken. Please inquire with the Parks and Recreation department. Children 6 and older are welcome if accompanied by an attending adult and with prior consent from Kate.

LOCATION: Senior Center INSTRUCTOR: Kate Bowers MIN/MAX: 5/25 FEE: $156 Ages Day Date 18+ Thurs 4/9-6/25

360.293.1918 cityofanacortes.org

Time 6-7:30P

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Youth Track & Field

Put on those running shoes, warm-up your throwing arm, and get ready to have some fun. Boys and girls in grades 1st-6th are eligible to participate in a fun and exciting program. Kids will have the opportunity to learn the basic FUNdamentals of sprinting, mid-distance and distance running, long jump, high jump, shot-put, discus, and safety javelin. Participants will also have the opportunity to test their skills in an organized track meet on the last day of the program, May 11th, from 5-8 p.m., and ribbons will be handed out to all competitors. **Program is now taking place on Mondays.

LOCATION: AHS Track (Rice Field behind the High School) INSTRUCTOR: Dustin South MIN/MAX: 20/100+ FEE: $20 Grade 1st-6th

Day Date Time Mon 4/13-5/11 5:30-6:45P

Springtime is the perfect time to start thinking about flying a kite. April is National Kite Month. Come learn about the history of kiting. See kites of all styles, shapes and sizes. Make a kite with the kids, or for yourself to take and fly. Also, watch INDOOR flying demonstrations, or play with an indoor glider yourself.

A community event for kids of all ages. Presented by Sam and Cari King in association with the American Kiteflyer’s Association (www.aka.kite.org).

LOCATION: Aancortes High School Gym MIN/MAX: 20/100+ FEE: FREE Grade Day Date Time 1st-6th Sat 4/18 10A - 4P

Indoor Flying 1P-4P

ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

Come spend the morning with your daughter as you enjoy a tea party together enjoying a tasty assortment of treats, followed by some fun Fancy Nancy projects and a fabulous story. Each child will also have the opportunity to make a few fancy art projects and listen to a fabulous story. Don’t forget to dress fancy!

LOCATION: Anacortes Senior Center INSTRUCTOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: 10/25 FEE: $15 (includes Mother & Child)

$5 (for additional Children) Ages Day Date Time 2+ Sat 5/2 10-11:30A

Messy Me

Kid’s Kite Making Day & Kite Art Exhibit

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Fancy Nancy Tea Party

Let your child get messy! This is the perfect class for you and your child. You come each week and get to do up to six different projects that include, but not limited to stamping, painting, gluing, shaving cream sculpting and many more messy projects.

At the end of each class we have circle time where we sing songs and let the kids move around. The best part is that we do all the cleaning up! Space is limited, so sign up today.

LOCATION: Sunrise Room INSTRUCTOR: Jill Hixson MIN/MAX: 7/20 FEE: $25 Ages Day Date Time 1-3yr Wed 4/8-5/6 10-10:45A

Coed Volleyball League

The 3rd & 4th graders play together in one division, and the 5th & 6th graders play together in another division. Also NEW this year, we will have the teams practice on Tuesdays and have the teams play games on Thursdays. Your child will get assigned to a team and their coach will contact you with a schedule with all the details. Your child is not required to have knee pads but we do recommend them.

Registration Deadline- April 24, 2015 Coaches Meeting-April 28, 2015 LOCATION: Anacortes Middle School Gym INSTRUCTOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: 10/25 FEE: $38 (includes a team t-shirt) Grade Day Date Time 3rd - 6th Tues & Thurs 5/5-6/16 4-7P

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

Kids Fishing Derby

Pee Wee Baseball

Spring is almost here and that means it is baseball season. If your child is between the ages of 4-6 years they can play Pee Wee Baseball with APRD. The FUNdamentals of baseball (throwing, catching, batting, and running) will be presented in a fun and non-competitive atmosphere. Each player will receive a Pee Wee baseball t-shirt for their participation in the program! Space is limited so sign up early for one of the following sessions.

LOCATION: Storvik Park INSTRUCTOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: 15/40 FEE: $25 Ages Day Date Time 4-6 Wed 5/6-6/3 Session 1: 3-3:50P

Session 2: 4-4:50P

Child and Babysitting Class

The Child and Babysitting Safety (CABS) program covers child safety and basic care techniques for infants and children. CABS stresses the priority to keep the babysitter and the children you care for safe. Some of the topics covered in the program: before parents leave, play-time, telephone calls/ stranger knocks, hand washing, meal times, bedtime, and providing emergency care (first aid/CPR). Sheila Davis is a Certified First Aid/ CPR instructor with the American Safety & Health Institute, more information available at www.bee-safe.com. Bring a sack lunch and a drink with you to class. A mini first aid kit will be given to each student and is included in the class fee. The class is held on a “non-school� day.

LOCATION: City Hall Council Chambers INSTRUCTOR: Sheila Davis MIN/MAX: 10/20 FEE: $48 Ages Day Date Time 10+ Tues 5/26 9A-3P

Take your kid fishing! Come spend the morning fishing from the shore or from your boat. There is a 5 catch limit per kid. This is a kid event, so there is no fishing allowed for the adults on this day.

Bring your own fishing gear. The Fidalgo/San Juan Island Chapter Puget Sound Anglers will be on site to help kids fish and to give some fishing advice.

Kids are encouraged to weigh in their biggest and their smallest fish that they catch. This event is co-sponsored by the Fidalgo/San Juan Island Chapter Puget Sound Anglers and the Anacortes Parks & Recreation Department. There is NO PREREGISTRATION. Sign up the morning of the event.

LOCATION: Heart Lake INSTRUCTOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: OPEN FEE: FREE Ages 13 & under

Day Sat

Date Time 6/6 7-11A

11th ANNUAL

Come out to Storvik Park and visit the various vendors, adoptable dog shelters, demos, and participate in various contests that will be happening throughout the day. The Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department and the Anacortes Police Department are working together this year on this event and would like to encourage all dog owners to bring a dog food item donation for the Animal Pet Shelter. Look to drop your donation off next to the Anacortes Police Car at the event.

LOCATION: Storvik Park FEE: FREE Ages Day All Sat

360.293.1918 cityofanacortes.org

Date Time 6-13 10A-2P

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Survivor Camp Dates

Sign up today for one of these summer survivor camp weeks. If you’re a fan of the popular TV show Survivor, or if you like to challenge yourself in fun and silly games and activities, then this is the camp for you. At camp each day we will explore the park, play games, make art projects, have snacks and have fun in the sun. Due to the popularity of the program we ask that kids sign up for only one session.

LOCATION: Group Tenting Area at Washington Park INSTRUCTOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: 12/25 FEE: $50 Grade Day K-6 Mon-Thurs

Date wk-1 6/22-25 wk-2 7/13-16 wk-3 8/17-20

Time 9-12P 9-12P 9-12P

Internal Martial Arts Intensive, Principles and Practice

Internal Martial Arts Intensive will cover the Principles and Practice of ancient and traditional Chinese internal martial arts. Balance, relaxation, diet, and exercise will be addressed. You will learn the foundation principles and movements from a true master, Sifu Chin Tsai Tsou. He was born in Taiwan, is a 3rd generation Chinese doctor, and has been teaching martial arts for over 40 years.

Use this intensive to reach your peak performance!

Whether you are a teacher of martial arts or a marathon runner, a high school athlete looking for a leg up on the field or completely new to exercise, you are sure to increase your body awareness and overall power at this highly unique intensive class.

Kari Sherman is Sifu's student of five years and will supervise the course. It is recommended, but not mandatory, that you attend at least one Tai Chi class with Kari before the intensive. Contact karimsherman@gmail.com for more information.

LOCATION: Anacortes Center for Happiness The Ballroom (619 Commercial Avenue) INSTRUCTOR: Chin Tsai Tsou / Kari Sherman MIN/MAX: 10/50 FEE: $125 Ages Day Date 15+ Saturday 4/25

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ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

Time 9-11A

Kids-R-Best Fest

Mark your calendars for this annual event for the kids in our community! More details to follow in our Summer Menu.

LOCATION: Storvik Park SATURDAY JULY 11, 11-4P FEE: FREE

Art Dash

Includes performance T-Shirt, medal for half marathon participants and ribbons for 5k & 10k participants. This certified course goes along the Tommy Thompson Parkway, out to March Point, loops around the refineries and finishes at the Port Ware House. For specific route information or to register go to www.cityofanacortes.org. Proceeds benefit the local art in the community. This event is organized by both the Anacortes Arts Festival and the Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department.

Participants who are pre-registered may pick up their race number/t-shirt on Friday, July 31st in the Parks Department Office 8am-6pm. If you need more race information or would like to be one of the many volunteers to make this event a success, please contact Nicole Johnston, Recreation Coordinator at nicolej@cityofanacortes.org.

LOCATION: City Hall, 6th & Q INSTRUCTOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: FEE: Half-$50, 10k-$40, 5k-$30 Ages Day Date Time All Sat 8/1 8A

Adult Paint Party

Are you ready for a night of fun? This beginners Art Class will introduce participants to a variety of painting techniques. With step by step guided instruction your friends will be calling you Van Gogh in no time! All supplies are included. Space is limited so sign up early. Supplies are included.

LOCATION: The Depot (611 R Ave.) INSTRUCTOR: Julene Brogan MIN/MAX: 4/25 FEE: $32 Ages Day Date 16+ Mon 7/20

Woodland Reflection 16+ Tues 8/11

Black Canvas Sea Creature

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

Time 6-8:30P 6-8:30P

Tai Chi

Youth Art Camp

Come enjoy four days of artistic fun! This art camp will introduce each participant to a variety of painting and drawing techniques. The instructor works with each student to suit his or her skill level and to encourage their own unique artist style. An art show will be held the final day. The confidence student’s gain in their creativity will spill over into other aspects of their life and education. Examples of projects may include: canvas paintings, chalk and oil pastels, watercolor paintings, 3-D art and more.

Each week will have different projects, so sign up for one or both. Space is limited. All supplies are included.

LOCATION: The Depot INSTRUCTOR: Julene Brogan MIN/MAX: 4/15 FEE: $90 Ages Day 7-14 Mon-Thurs

Date Time Session 1 - 7/20-23 10:30 - 1P Session 2 - 7/20-23 2:00 - 4:30P Session 3 - 8/10-13 10:30 - 1P Session 3 - 8/10-13 2:00 - 4:30P

Pee Wee Art Camp

Come enjoy four days of artistic fun! This introductory camp will introduce each participant to the foundations of painting and drawing.

The instructor works with each student for an individualized experience. The final day of camp will include an art show. This provides a platform for your child’s art achievements to be recognized, building confidence and self-esteem in the young artist. Each week will have different projects, so sign up for one or both. Space is limited. All supplies are included.

LOCATION: The Depot INSTRUCTOR: Julene Brogan MIN/MAX: 4/10 FEE: $65 Ages Day

Date

Time

4-6 Mon-Thurs Session 1 - 7/20-23 8:45 - 10A

Session 2 - 8/10-13 8:45 - 10A

Come to Tai Chi class for more balance, coordination, and strength. Improve overall fitness, flexibility, and whole body power though learning your own daily Tai Chi practice. Kari has five years of Tai Chi experience and over 15 years as a high-level athlete in a variety of sports. In this gentle Tai Chi class you will learn techniques to improve circulation, relieve stress, and tap into a whole new realm of energy and mental clarity before undiscovered.

For all ages and abilities, everyone is welcome!

LOCATION: The Depot (611 R Ave.) INSTRUCTOR: Kari Sherman MIN/MAX: 10/30 FEE: $60 Ages Day 16-45+ Thurs

Date Time 4/16 - 5/28 6:00-7:00P No class on 5/7

Tai Chi for Athletes

ATHLETES – TRANSFORM YOUR PEAK PERFORMANCE! Calling all athletes looking for the class to really transform their peak performance! This new Tai Chi class will unlock your physical potential! You will sweat, shake, and burn, without risking an injury.

Learn to be light on your feet, agile and quick.

Strengthen your lower body and increase speed and control without weights! Improve overall fitness and whole body power though learning your own daily Tai Chi practice.

In this Tai Chi class you will have fun learning your own daily Tai Chi practice of relaxation, balance, and coordination exercises that will transform your performance, improve circulation for faster healing of injuries and decrease injury occurrences through a new world of balance and flexibility. You will relax, process stress, and tap into a whole new realm of energy, mental clarity, and peace of mind previously undiscovered.

Tai Chi instructor Kari Sherman has five years of Tai Chi experience and over 15 years as a high-level athlete in soccer, Olympic-style weightlifting, and road bike racing.

LOCATION: The Depot (611 R Ave.) INSTRUCTOR: Kari Sherman MIN/MAX: 10/30 FEE: $60 Ages Day Date 16-45+ Thurs 4/16 - 5/28

No class on 5/7

360.293.1918 cityofanacortes.org

Time 7:15-8:15P

ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

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DROP IN Weight Room

18+ AHS Weight Room Sundays (3:30-4:30pm) Mondays & Wednesdays (5:30-6:30pm)

Volleyball

18+ Fidalgo Elementary Gym Wednesdays & Fridays (7:00-9:00pm)

Jazz Drumming Lessons

This class is for drummers (beginners and up) who want to improve their drumming style by learning the fundamentals of jazz rhythms and patterns. It does not matter if you are a rock/ funk/metal drummer, learning jazz and studying some of the great jazz drummers will make you a better player. Braydn Krueger was the drummer in the Lonely Forest and has been teaching drums for the past 9 years. Drums and sticks will be provided for each lesson.

This class is open for youth and adults and is made possible through the Anacortes Public Library’s Manieri Jazz and Swing Endowment. Space is limited one person per session, these are individual lessons, so register early.

8+ 8+ 8+ 8+

Fri Fri Fri Fri

4/10 – 5/1 4/10 – 5/1 4/10 – 5/1 4/10 – 5/1

Time

4:00-4:45P 4:45-5:30P 5:30-6:15P 6:15-7:00P

Youth Sailing Information

18+ AHS Gym (Sun.) Fidalgo Elementary (Tues.)

Sundays & Tuesdays (7:00-9:00pm)

Pickle Ball

18+ Mt. Erie Elementary Gym Sundays (10:00am-12:00pm) Tuesdays & Thursdays (7:00-9:00pm)

SUMMER CAMPS Register Online British Soccer and Tetra Brazil Soccer Camps

July 20th – 24th To register visit www.challengersports.com

Skyhawks Tennis Camps

LOCATION: Senior Activity Center

(1701 22nd ST) INSTRUCTOR: Braydn Krueger MIN/MAX: 1/1 Age Day Date

Slow Break Basketball

July 6th – 10th and August 3rd – 7th Register and more info visit www.skyhawks.com

Fee

$99 $99 $99 $99

Skyhawks Other Sport Camps July 27th – 31st and August 3rd – 7th Register and more info visit www.skyhawks.com

The summer youth sailing schedule is not available yet. We are in the process of hiring a new Head Instructor/Supervisor for the program. Once we have hired someone we will have a class schedule and other information. You can look on our website www.cityofanacortes.org later this Spring to see if we have a class schedule posted. If we cannot find somebody to fill the Sailing Instructor/ Supervisor position, we may have no classes offered this summer. If you or somebody you know may be interested in applying for the position please have them view the job posting online at the www.cityofanacortes.org. Go to the Human Resources page and look under “Job Openings.”

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Anacortes Senior College Spring Term APRIL 14 TO MAY 21

Classes meet at Anacortes Middle School, 2200 M Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98221. We encourage you to look for detailed course information in the Anacortes American, the Anacortes Senior Activity Center newsletter and on our website: www.seniorcollege.org. For further information, call 360-503-1255, email info@seniorcollege.org.

Anacortes Senior College Spring Term begins on Tuesday, April 14, and continues through Thursday, May 21.

Afternoon classes meet 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Evening classes meet 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Classes are 6 weeks in length unless otherwise noted. A 6-week class is $30. A 3-week class is $20.

SPRING CLASS SCHEDULE

TUESDAY AFTERNOONS (Begins April 14)

Introduction to Spanish. Yadi Young, a native of Costa Rica, taught college and high school Spanish for 30 years.

She will focus on achieving greater understanding of a new language through role playing, games and songs.

Mysteries of Personal Communication. Dr. Robert Dionne will lead the class into improving interpersonal communications with significant others and friends. Dionne taught at California State University for 35 years.

Health Fads窶認act or Fiction? Part II (3 weeks: 4/14, 21, 28). Patricia Downing, a clinical nurse specialist, will unravel fact from fiction by showing how to detect differences among the endless streams of new scientific findings.

A Brief History of Important Metals (3 weeks: 5/5, 12, 19). Early artisans in metals revolutionized human culture.

Jim Strong shares expertise as a college professor and researcher to fathom eras shaped by metal.

THURSDAY AFTERNOONS (Begins April 16) Great Choral Works of the Baroque Period. Roupen Shakarian, Director of the Skagit Symphony and music composer, reveals the beauty of vocal works through motets, madrigals, cantatas, oratorios and passions.

Continuing Dances: Government and Our Economy. Dr. Michael Newbrough examines politics, economics and special interest groups in shaping policies. He was professor at Palomar College, San Marcos, Calif., for 30 years.

Garden Threats: Insects and Diseases of the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Robert Gara digs into disease and insect damage to trees, shrubs, flowers and lawns. He is retired from the College of Forest Resources at the University of Washington.

Lies, Damned Lies窶ｦ and Statistics. Dr. Bill Kaigh offers ways to discern the mistakes and abuses of statistical information often presented to influence public opinion. He spent 30 years on the faculty of University of Texas-El Paso.

THURSDAY EVENINGS (Begins April 16) French: Chocolat et Chansons. Susan Redd encourages seniors to sing in French for pronunciation and understanding, along with tasting chocolate. Redd taught 37 years at Mount Vernon High School.

Retirement & Investment Planning (3 weeks: 4/16, 23, 30). Thor McIlrath, a certified financial planner with decades of experience, will tutor students on managing investments, using new tax laws to advantage and more.

Listening Like a Jazz Musician (3 weeks: 4/16, 23, 30). Learning to listen effectively, led by musician Todd Anderson, will inform students about the improvisation, stylistic musical elements and nuances of jazz.

The Archeology of Ancient Israel/Jordan (3 weeks: 5/7, 14, 21).

Dr. Douglas Clark, Director of the Center for Near Eastern Archeology at La Sierra University, Riverside, Calif., explores sites and discoveries on both sides of the Jordan.

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t

Anacortes Soo Bahk Do®

Korean Karate

A Martial Art for Life! Ages 4 and Up.

1st Month Free!

Convenient Saturday Classes

Discipline/Respect/Community

Fun/Fitness

Classes scheduled Monday through Saturday!

Time 7:00 - 8:00 a.m.

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

3:30 - 4:00 p.m.

4:00 - 5:10 p.m.

5:15 - 6:25 p.m.

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Day

Class

Mon/Wed/Fri Tues/Thurs Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs Mon/Wed Tues Sat Sat

Adults Adults Tigers (4-6 years) Children (7+)/Families/Adults Children (7+)/Families/Adults Private lessons by appointment Midnight Blue and Red Belts Midnight Blue and Red Belts Children (7+)/Families/Adults

Classes for ages 4, 24, 94 or any age between.

Health/Flexibility

Focus

■ Adaptations for age or physical challenges.

■ Tai Chi and Self Defense classes — call for information.

■ Studies have shown that martial arts, including Soo Bahk Do and Tai Chi, offer support and strength for people challenged by chronic conditions including diabetes, MS, and Parkinsons Disease.

2117 O Avenue Anacortes, WA 98221 (360) 299-2905 See our schedule, photos, videos, and more at www.anacorteskarate.com

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Colette and Andy Arvidson Certified Master Instructors Korean Soo Bahk Do® Association World Moo Duk Kwan®

1603 22nd Street Anacortes, WA 98221 www.fidalgopool.com (360) 293-0673 *Schedule is subject to change.

April 1 - June 20 Spring Schedule 2015 SWIM LESSONS Session I: Session II:

April 6 - April 30 May 4 - May 28 (No lessons May 25 - Memorial Day) Session III: June 1 - June 18 Mon/Wed Classes: 10:30 - 11:30 am & 4:00 - 6:00 pm Tues/Thurs Classes: 10:30 - 11:30 am & 4:00 - 6:00 pm Register by phone or in person.

Private lessons are available by appointment.

View our schedule: www.fidalgopool.com

THUNDERBIRD AQUATIC CLUB Age group USA swim team Head Coach: Jason Hunter Year round competitive team Join the team! Must be a level 4 swimmer or higher.

All ages. Swim with your friends! We have Masters too!

Call for more information.

POOL RENTALS Rent the pool for aquatic training, parties, etc!

Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 10:00 pm Saturday: 12:30 - 8:00 pm Sunday: 3:00 - 6:30 pm

FEES Single Admission Pool or Fitness: $6.00 Open Swim: $3.50 Reduced Rate (Noon - 1pm): $3.50 Memberships: 10 time punch or a 30 day pass (No annual fee)

FACILITY HOURS Mon - Fri: 5:00 am - 8:00 pm Saturday: 7:00 am - 12:00 pm Sunday: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm

SHARING LANES Side by side if only 2 swimmers.

Circle swim if 3 or more swimmers.

OPEN SWIM Mon/Wed/Fri: 6:30 - 8:00 pm Saturday: 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Sunday: 1:15 - 2:30 pm (Children 6 & under need to be accompanied by an adult)

WATER EXERCISE Mon/Wed/Fri: 6:15 - 7:15 am Water Exercise Mon/Wed: 8:00 - 9:00 am Water Aerobics

Tues: Tues/Thurs:

Fri:

9:00 - 10:00 am 6:30 - 7:30 pm 7:30 - 8:30 am 8:30 - 9:30 am 8:00 - 9:00 am 9:00 - 10:00 am

H2O Endurance NEW Aqua Zumba Power Fitness Water Exercise (arthritis) Deep Water Aerobics Deep Water Intervals

FITNESS CENTER OPEN FOR DROP-IN: Mon - Fri: 5:00 am - 8:00 pm Saturday: 7:00 am - 12:00 pm Sunday: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm CLASSES: M: 10:00 - 10:50 am Wiggle Worms Playroom MW: 8:30 - 9:30 am SilverSneakers速 Classic MWF: 11:00 am - Noon Gentle Yoga T: 9:15 - 10:15 am Flow Yoga

TH: TTH: F:

10:20 - 11:20 9:05 - 10:05 am 8:00 - 9:00 am 8:30 - 9:30 am

Zumba Gold Zumba Gold Strength & Conditioning Muscular Strength

LAP SWIM & WATER WALKING Monday - Friday: 5:00 am - 2:00 pm Mon/Wed/Fri: 5:30 am - 6:30 pm

Tuesday: Thursday:

Saturday: Sunday:

(5:30 - 6:00 M/W: 3 lanes) 5:30 am - 8:00 pm 5:30 am - 6:30 pm (5:30 - 8:00 starting June 11) 7:00 - 8:30 am 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

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293-3725 • www.friendsoftheacfl.org • info@friendsoftheacfl.org

he Friends of the Forest is a non-profit, citizen organization dedicated to the preservation of the Anacortes Community Forest Lands through education, outreach, and stewardship. We have a multi-layered education program that strives to meet the needs of all Fidalgo Island residents. Our education program includes K-12 guided school field trips, Adult/Senior hikes, all ages hikes, Forest Discovery Day Camp, habitat restoration, Ethnobotany field seminars, a quarterly newsletter, and our two comprehensive school district programs; Growing Wild-native plants for all 3rd graders, and Middle School Watershed Discovery for all students in the 7th grade. Our community hikes are free and no registration is required. Our trips focus on human and wildlife experience; please leave your pets at home. Join us this spring as we continue to explore and learn more about the ACFL together. For more information about our group or these hikes please contact Education and Outreach Director, Denise Crowe at 293-3725. You may also visit our website www.friendsoftheacfl.org or email Denise@friendsoftheacfl.org. Hope to see you in the woods! Get to know your community forestlands!

It’s time to join a guided hike and begin to learn more about the fascinating wild heart of our island.

All Ages Hikes Great for families and folks of all ages, these are hearty hikes with a naturalist guide.

SPECIAL EARTH DAY WHISTLE LAKE CELEBRATION!!

• Wednesday, April 22nd • 10am until noon • Join friends for an Earth Day gathering in our beautiful Whistle Lake area of the ACFL. Learn about the history of the day and our community forest lands and the important role we all play in taking care of our community forest in perpetuity. We are experiencing an early spring, anticipate lovely wildflowers and great company. Meet at the Whistle Lake Parking lot.

BIG BEAVER POND TRAVERSE • Saturday, April 25th • 10am until noon • Spring is here! Yellow swamp lanterns and magenta salmon berry bloom will light the path as we circumnavigate Big Beaver Pond. Emerging plants, frog and bird song, and flowing water will awaken us to the meaning of the season.

Meet at the old city dump gate at 37th and A Ave. SUGARLOAF WILDFLOWERS • Saturday, May 2nd • 10am until noon • This is the ultimate wildflower hike of the year. We will savor the climb through alternating forest and rocky bald meadow, learning each flower as we go. From blue Camus lily to red Indian paintbrush, come and see the bounty of color this little mountain has to offer. The views from the summit are not to be missed.

Meet at the southern trailhead halfway up the Mount Erie view road. The trip up and back is one mile, and quite steep in places.

LITTLE CRANBERRY LAKE LOOP • Saturday, May 16th • 10am until noon • Little Cranberry is our only lake with a near shore trail all the way around it. The trail provides constant lake views in this wildlife rich area. Rocky meadows, bog islands, and deep forest converge in this basin to create habitat for hundreds of native plants and animals. Will we see river otter?

Raven? Red-legged frog? Banana slug sightings guaranteed. Meet at the Little Cranberry Lake parking lot on the north end of the lake. (Take Georgia south off of Oakes Ave. - 3 blocks up take a right on Little Cranberry road and follow gravel to parking lot.)

EASTERN HEART • Saturday, May 23rd • 10am until noon • There is a labyrinth of trails to the east of Heart Lake and north of Sugarloaf that we will begin to decipher together.

Come and get your bearings in this amazing area of our forest. From old growth to alder swale, shale deposits and bedrock, stinging nettle to sticky bedstraw, we will notice the hidden details. Meet at the base of Mount Erie on Ray Auld Drive.

SPRING FITNESS HIKE • Saturday, May 30 • 10am to 1 pm • Join some of our Friends of the Forest Board Members for a fast paced spring fitness hike. This 7-8 mile intense workout hike, for the very fit only, will pass all the lakes and ponds of the Little Cranberry forest lands. Meet at the parking lot on 36th and A Ave at 10 am. Bring water and a snack. No dogs please; coyotes, raccoons, deer, beavers, owls OK.

ETHNOBOTANY FIELD SEMINAR • Saturday, June 6th • 10am until 4pm • Adults only, must register by phone or email • More information will be given upon registration. Ethnobotany is the study of native plants and the traditional uses of the plants by people. You will learn about food, medicine, and materials derived from the vast array of native plants in our woods.

Senior/Adult Hikes A little bit gentler, with an adult level flora and fauna focus.

DOUBLE WATERSHED TOUR • Friday, April 10th • 10am until noon • What is the difference between a wetland and a watershed? This gentle, one mile hike will lead us past three distinct wetlands and through two watersheds. You will come to know the qualities of a marsh, swamp, bog, and fen. Enjoy this excellent birding opportunity. Meet at the end of 32nd St. West off of D Ave. PINE RIDGE • Friday, May 8th • 10am until noon • This is a beautiful hike through shore pine to a hidden meadow with lovely views. We will continue on around the dark side of the ridge and connect with old growth south of Heart Lake. Meet at the base of Mount Erie on Ray Auld Drive.

NORTHWEST WHISTLE • Friday, June 12th • 10am until noon • With summer nearly here, it is time to visit our deepwater oasis. The trails north and west of the lake make for a delightful hike at the peak of fresh green lush growth. Meet at the Whistle Lake parking lot.

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Class A C T School For The Performing Arʦ AT ANACORTES COMMUNITY THEATRE

Spring Class Schedule 2015 To register call 360-293-6829 For more information: www.acttheatre.com/classact

IMAGINATION EXPLORERS

THIS TOWN AIN’T BIG ENOUGH

Ages: Preschool Dates: Fridays, April 10th - May 15th Time: 11am - 12pm OR 1pm - 2pm Cost: $50 Instructors: Katrina Agnew and Valisa Keller Strap on your imagination and get ready to explore fun new worlds and characters. Every day, students will take part in a variety of creative dramatic games designed to use their imagination, improve their self- confidence, and provide social interaction within an organized class setting. Students will create crazy characters, sing and dance in this jam-packed hour of fun.

Ages: 3rd - 6th grade Dates: Monday, April 13th - Wednesday, May 20th Time: 4:00 - 5:30 pm Cost: $125 Performances: Friday, May 22nd at 7 pm and

Saturday, May 23rd at 2 pm & 7 pm Instructors: Duncan Ring and Diana Farnsworth When one old West Town gets tired of all of the outlaw trouble, they put an ad out for some help. When all of the West’s biggest heroes show up, the town gets a little crowded. This class starts with the experience of auditioning and continues with the creation of a character, memorization of lines and a full performance with costumes and makeup. All students will receive a major role in this show that is performed for the public.

BORN TO BE WILD! - WEEKLY CLASS Ages: Kindergarten -2nd grade Dates: Fridays, April 10th - May 15th Time: 4:00 - 5:15pm Cost: $75 Performance: Friday, May 15th at 4:45pm Instructor: Rebecca Pursley The jungle animals have all gathered to choose who will be the new King of the Jungle! They each have to tell a story explaining why they deserve the crown. Each student will create a unique jungle animal personality to help tell this story. This play will be performed on ACT’s Second Stage on the last day of class. Each day of class, students will also have the chance to play fun theatre games and work on their acting skills.

BORN TO BE WILD! - SPRING BREAK CLASS Ages: Kindergarten -2nd grade Dates: Mondays, March 30th - Friday, April 3rd Time: 10am - 11:30am Cost: $75 Performance: Friday, April 3rd at 11:00am Instructor: Rebecca Pursley The jungle animals have all gathered to choose who will be the new King of the Jungle! They each have to tell a story explaining why they deserve the crown. Each student will create a unique jungle animal personality to help tell this story. This play will be performed on ACT’s Second Stage on the last day of class. Each day of class, students will also have the chance to play fun theatre games and work on their acting skills.

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THEY’RE PLAYING MY SONG! Ages: 7th - 12th grade Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 24th - April 30th Time: 2:30 - 5:30pm (3 hour class) Cost: $175 Performances: Friday May 1st at 7pm and

Saturday May 2nd at 2pm & 7pm Instructors: Jessica Guzik and Katie Jennings Every actor has a song that is best suited to their unique voice and personality, and this class will help them find it! This class will be putting on a Music Revue, full of solos, duets and group numbers. The focus will be on character and performance as well as singing. This class starts with the experience of auditioning and continues with the creation of a character, memorization of lines and a full performance with costumes and makeup. All students will be featured in this production that is performed for the public.

SHAKESPEARE ON SPRING BREAK: SPRING BREAK CLASS Ages: 7th – 12th grade Dates: Monday, March 30th, Wednesday ,April 1st

and Friday, April 3rd Time: 12:30pm - 4:30pm Cost: $75 Performance: Friday, April 3rd at 4:30pm Instructor: Diana Farnsworth Shakespeare’s writing is full of puns, jokes, heartfelt speeches, witty banter and stirring drama. Come learn all about Shakespeare’s characters and words, get a chance to play with some of his best scenes and speeches. This is a great way to get to know one of drama’s favorite playwrights, and prevent boredom on spring break.

JUNE DANCE CONCERT: “A TRIBUTE TO BROADWAY” Friday, June 19, 7:00pm, and Saturday, June 20, 3:00pm, at Brodniak Hall PRESCHOOL DANCE COMBOS, JULY 6 - 29 An introduction to pre-ballet, tap and creative movement for young dancers CHILDREN’S DANCE/ARTS CAMP, JULY 6 – 16 A two-week exploration of creativity with classes in dance, theatre, music and visual art MIDSUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE, JULY 20 – 30 For experienced dancers, a two-week immersion in dance forms and technique, culminating in a performance at the Anacortes Arts Festival

Dance with your heart and your feet will follow along!

901 Third Street, Anacortes, Washington 98221 • 360.299.8447 dance@fidalgodanceworks.org • fidalgodanceworks.org a 501(c)(3) nonprofit school of dance Photo: KP Studios

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Think Summer Kids Programs!

DECEPTION PASS DAY CAMPS In Deception Pass State Park - Weekly beginning 6/29 Exceptional Value and Experiential Adventures!

4 Themes for summer – see web for details.

• Beach Combers Paradise -7/6 - 10 & 8/3 - 7 • Aqua Marine-6/29 - 7/3 & 7/27 - 31 • Forest Friends-7/13 - 17 & 8/17 - 21 • Eco-Camp-7/20 -24 & 8/10 - 14 • Class details and registration forms online! $160/student 9am - 3 pm 8 - 12 yrs (Limit 15/wk) TWO SECTIONS! JUNIOR EXPLORER CAMP 6-8 YEAR OLDS! This ½ day outdoor experience for 6-8 year olds itching to get out and explore their world. Camp runs from 9am – noon OR 12:30 – 3:30 pm each day with weeks alternating between forest and marine themes. Sessions can be linked for a full day if desired. See web for details. $79/student 9am – 12 or 12:30-3:30 ages 6 - 8 (Limit 10/wk)

KIDS KAYAK ACADEMY Kids Kayak Academy teaches kids the importance of safety and the fun of kayaking in our region. Each fun filled week results in a student capable of a self-rescue, assisting others, and able to make competent choices. Basic paddling skills & navigation are fundamental. See web for details.

Classes offered July - August age 11 - 15

MARINE EXPLORER CAMP For the budding marine biologist! Discover the amazing underwater world with a real marine biologist. Meet scientific divers and learn what they do. What makes seaweed slimy? How do barnacles and seastars eat? What do seabirds do underwater? What do seals and whales eat. Dissect a squid or fish, explore tide pools, and more! Class held at Deception Pass. Ages 8 - 13 $239/student 6/29 - 7/3 9am-3pm (Limit 15)

WILDERNESS SURVIVAL FOR KIDS & TEENS Equip yourself for the unexpected! Learn how to build a shelter, find and purify water, make rope, find food and more!

You will never be afraid of getting lost in the woods and not knowing what to do. Learn direction finding with map and compass, the sun or moon, and maybe even GPS. Details sent upon registration. Ages 8 - 12. And Teens $239/student 7/6 - 10 9am - 3 pm (Limit 15) $239/student 7/13 - 17 9am - 3 pm (Limit 15) Teens $239/student 7/20 - 24 9am-3pm age 13 - 17 (15)

NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY CAMP A week of Nature Photography. Learn the finer points of taking amazing pictures using the Incredible Scenery and wildlife found in the gem of the Pacific Northwest - Deception Pass State Park. (Ages 10 - 15) $249/student 8/3 - 7 9am-3pm (Limit 15)

$250/student Dates online 9am - 3pm (Limit 6 per class) NEW! • Explore Kayaking – ages 9 - 10 $250 Dates online • Marine Biology by Kayak 8/10 - 14 $250 • Advanced Paddling for Kids* 8/17 - 21 $250 *previous attendance in Kids Kayak Academy and instructor approval required.

NEW! ART IN NATURE Experience different artistic media as you re-create what your eye sees in nature. Learn to see in new ways, and share your wonder with others. Hone your observations. $249/student 8/10 - 14 9am - 3pm Ages 8 - 13 (Limit 15)

INSECTS ALIVE! Ever wonder about the creepy crawlies of the insect world?

Never wonder again! Each day you will discover new and exciting insects of all sorts. There are some amazing body plans and life-cycles among the arthropods! $239/student 7/27 - 31 9am - 3 pm Ages 8 - 13 (Limit 15)

www.AcademicsAndAdventures.org Academic Adventures has been providing local marine and environmental education since 2000. Programs are designed for students of all ages! Whenever possible some form of adventure is incorporated that helps the lessons stick. Our work with NW schools, Adult and Kids programs through Skagit Valley College, and our concession with Deception Pass State Park have enabled many to enjoy the natural wonders of our region. We hope to see you soon!

Andrew J. Rice, Executive Director

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ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

To register: call 360-708-3286 (check/Visa/MC/Discover) cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

PROTECTING SKAGIT MARINE RESOURCES Education * Citizen Science * Stewardship 4TH ANNUAL FIDALGO SHORELINE ACADEMY REGISTRATION NOW OPEN APRIL 11: A one day university for everyone from 9am - 4pm at the Fidalgo Bay Resort in Anacortes.

For complete program details visit www.skagitbeaches.org and register online at www.fidalgoshorelineacademy2015.eventbrite.com.

Choose from a variety of presentations about current issues facing our marine environment and an array of topics about Salish Sea ecosystems and culture. This year’s Keynote speaker is Dr. Joe Gaydos speaking about his work as the Senior Wildlife Veterinarian and Chief Scientist for SeaDoc Society, a sciencebased marine conservation program of the UC Davis Wildlife Health Center located on Orcas Island with a focus on designing a healthy Salish Sea.

New this year! Sharing Shorelines -Trail Tales volunteers and local experts will provide unique sessions with ideas & hands-on demonstrations to inspire the naturalist in you! Teachers – continuing education clock hours available.

NEW DISCOVERY SIGN DEDICATION JUNE 13: Friends will celebrate the installation of 16 new Trail Tales Discovery interpretive signs along the northwest shoreline of Fidalgo Bay in the Cap Sante Marina area and at Robinson’s Cove on Guemes Channel. A ribbon cutting and walking tour is planned to explore and enjoy stories of the Anacortes shoreline. Look for event details on the Friends calendar at www.skagitbeaches.org.

TRAIL TALES JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY Trail Tales volunteers and guest speakers will be leading a fourth season of walks along the Tommy Thompson Trail and expanding into the Cap Sante Marina area later in the summer! Venture out on the trail with docents on Second Saturdays and Third Thursdays beginning May 2. Volunteers will also be present along the trail at Discovery sign stations interpreting the citizen science

activities that you see happening on the Fidalgo Bay shoreline, so stop and visit with a volunteer when you are on the trail. For a self–guided tour, grab a Journey of Discovery guide from the Visitor’s Center, Library or Parks and Recreation Office and stroll the Tommy Thompson Trail visiting Discovery Points filled with stories, tidbits and fun facts about the history and marine life along Fidalgo Bay. Find out more from the TRAIL TALES at their website.

www.skagitbeaches.org/trail-tales-home.html 360.293.1918 cityofanacortes.org

ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

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Anacortes Public Library Sheri Miklaski, Director (360) 293-1910

Worlds of Information and Imagination

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!

TECHWISE TUESDAYS

As you start planning out your annuals in your garden, don’t hesitate to swing by the library to check out our extensive gardening collection. The Jeane Thomson Read’N’Grow Memorial Gardening Collection has grown to over 300 titles!

TechWise Tuesdays will continue in April and May. Keep an eye on the library’s website and Facebook page for notices regarding specific upcoming technology classes.

TEEN ZONE Check out our revamped Teen Zone! For those of you that contributed to or attended our 2014 Love at the Library event, many thanks for supporting our teens by giving their space a facelift!

ACOUSTIC MUSIC ON 3RD TUESDAYS AND SUNDAYS Our beautiful baby grand piano is located on the 1st floor.

We hope you will enjoy the soft background music (piano, harp, or guitar) when you visit the library from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month and from 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the third Sunday. Experienced musicians who are interested in playing for the Library may inquire at the Circulation Desk.

MARITIME SPEAKER SERIES The 3rd Saturday of the month will resume in October.

Enjoy boating season!

MOVIES Fridays at 7:00 p.m.

May 8, “Black Stallion” May 15, “Life is Beautiful” May 22, “Last Chance Harvey” May 29, “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale”

BOOK CLUB Mondays at 7:00 p.m.

LIBRARY FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS The deadline for the Library Foundation’s Maritime scholarship for students enrolled in Skagit Valley College’s Marine Maintenance Technology Program is March 27th! The online application can be found at the SVC Foundation portion of the Financial Aid section and more information is available at http://www.skagit.edu/news.asp_Q_pagenumber_E_136. The deadline for the three scholarships funded by the Manieri Endowment is April 1st. Forms for the college student, teacher, and jazz camp scholarships are all available online http://jazzatthelibrary.com/education/scholarships/ and at the library.

ADULT PROGRAMS SUNDAY JAZZ HOUR Performances take place at the library on the second Sundays of the month from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Visit the jazz website http://jazzatthelibrary.com for details. Performances move to the Heart of Anacortes in June.

April 12 – Jennifer Kienzle May 10 – Carrie Wicks and Nick Allison

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ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

Apr. 27, Biography Month: Eleanor Roosevelt May 18, “Orphan Train” by Christina Baker Kline June 22, “The Lowland” by Jhumpa Lahiri

APRIL - Wednesdays at 7:00 Apr. 1, “Bringing Conflict Resolution to your Daily Life” Certified Professional Mediator Jorge Manzanera will engage the audience in a discussion of how we face conflict, what are the consequences of conflict, and how we can better solve conflict.

Apr. 8, “Injured Owls and Orphaned Owls” Shona Aitken from Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center will tell what kinds of animals they treat, what the injuries are, and how they help the animals that end up at the Center.

Apr. 15, “Native Trees of Western Washington” Join forestry professor and author Kevin Zobrist for a slide show and presentation on native trees, especially around Anacortes, followed by book signing.

Apr. 22, Money Smart Week Program: “Cyber Safety and You” Community Service Officer Karl Wolfswinkel will address four basic principles to help protect against cyber-crime (i.e. identity theft, fraud, etc.)

Apr. 29, “Vietnam: A Photo Tour” Travel by foot, car, train, plane and boat with Ronan Ellis on his extensive journey through Vietnam, including his area of operations during the 1968 Tet Offensive.

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

MAY - Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.

May 6, “Scotland” Join Rudy Gahler on his Road Scholar tour of Scotland for historical tidbits along with the scenery.

May 13, “Folk Legacy Concert” Join singer/songwriter Bethany Lynn for a musical journey from the 16th century through the 60’s Folk Revival, with a little history for each song.

May 20, “Alaskan Fisheries” Filmmaker and former fisherman Mark Lunsten will tell how the story of Alaskan fisheries is really the story of the halibut and salmon fisheries, starting over 100 years ago, and teaching a lesson of living sustainably.

May 27, “Historic Home Energy Efficiency Workshop” Join the Anacortes Historic Preservation Board for an informative session about how to make your historic home more energy efficient.

THE CHILDREN’S LIBRARY TIME FOR TOTS STORYTIME Tiny Tots Storytime is held in the Library Community Meeting Room at 10:30am on Wednesdays and Fridays.

This storytime is designed for children birth to 36 months of age and their caregivers. Tiny Tots Storytime promotes early learning through the use of play, movement, music, rhymes, and stories, all delivered in an enriching atmosphere.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME This popular storytime takes place in the Children’s Library on Thursdays at 11:15am. This storytime is designed for 3 to 5 year-old children and includes stories, rhymes, learning activities, and more.

LEGOS IN THE LIBRARY! Join Ria most Sunday afternoons 2pm to 4pm for her special Legos Building Club. Children ages 5-12 (younger with adult supervision) meet in the Children’s Library to create masterpieces from Legos. We provide everything you need, so please do not bring Legos from home.

TEEN PROGRAMS Youth in grades 7-12 join Ria most Wednesdays from 2:45pm to 4pm in the Activity Room. There will be assorted fun projects, including arts and crafts programs, preparation for various library programs, and other cool activities.

TALES FOR TAILS This popular program is made possible by Dogs on Call and is held on the second Saturday from 1pm to 2pm in the Children’s Library. Children read to a dog in the comfort of the Children’s Library. Dates for spring are March 14, April 11, and May 9.

LIBRARY INFORMATION FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY Friends of the Library meetings take place on the second Thursday at 2:30pm in the Library Community Meeting Room. The FriendShop bookstore carries a wide range of good-condition books, audios and videos, including material for children of all ages. All proceeds help the Library purchase new materials and support children’s programs and other needs. FriendShop hours: Mon. through Fri. 11am – 4pm and Sat. 1pm – 4pm. FriendShop manager, Beverly Reed, 293-4149.

LIBRARY FOUNDATION The Library Foundation offers many ways to support your library – books can be purchased in honor or memory of a loved one, bricks may be inscribed and installed in our walkway, or a wall tile may be engraved in our lobby. For a longer-term gift consider a donation to the Legacy Endowment Fund. The Library Foundation administers the Manieri and Maritime Endowments and the Jeane Thomson Read’n’Grow Memorial. For more information, please check out the Foundation webpage.

LIBRARY CARDS Signing up for a library card is easy! Bring in your photo ID and something with your local physical address on it (no PO Boxes, please). If you live outside of the city limits, a nonresident library card can be purchased at the front desk for $25 for 3 months or $100 for the year for your family.

LIBRARY WEBSITE Be sure to check out the Library’s web page at http://library. cityofanacortes.org for calendars of children’s and adult events, and for information about getting a library card. Find useful websites on a variety of topics. Popular magazines and newspapers are available through the library’s online databases. The library catalog can be accessed from home and items can be renewed by logging in to your account. Free downloadable audio books and eBooks are available to library card holders.

LIBRARY HOURS Monday 10am – 7pm Tuesday - Friday 11am – 7pm Saturday and Sunday Noon – 5pm

PASSPORT BOOK & PASSPORT CARD APPLICATION ACCEPTANCE HOURS Tuesday and Wednesday, noon – 6:30pm Saturday, 1pm – 4pm Service is unavailable when the library is closed

All programs are free of charge and registration is not necessary. Call the Children’s Library at (360) 293-1910, ext. 28 for more information.

HOLIDAY CLOSURES Easter: April 5 Memorial Day: May 25 Main Desk 293-1910 Children’s Library 293-1910 ext. 27 or 28 Fax 293-1929

library.cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918 cityofanacortes.org

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Washington Native Plant Society Anacortes Parks and Recreation Spring Plant Walks Schedule TUESDAYS, March 31 through MAY 26 2015 10am to noon, usually

2015 TRANSITION SKILL SHARE SERIES A series of 17 free workshops to help build self-sufficiency, sustainability, and skills for happy, healthy living.

All workshops from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.

Join Diane Smith to see how easy it is to make

healthy yogurt at home. This class will explore equipment needs, milk and culture options, and the importance of time and temperature. A demonstration of yogurt cheese preparation and recipes will be shared.

May 9: Growing Mushrooms At the Depot, 611 “R” Avenue, Anacortes Tristan Woodsmith will introduce mushroom cultivation as a way to sustainably convert organic waste into a healthy, gourmet food source.

May 23: Preventing Cancer 101 At the Depot, 611 “R” Avenue, Anacortes Local naturopath Alethea Fleming shares guideline on what you can do to prevent cancer. Yes, we’ll talk about veggies, but much more!

Thanks to our so-sponsors!

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ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

April 7 – Rosario Head at Deception Pass State Park. Entrance is west of the Bowman’s Bay park entrance. Rocky headland and sheltered woods. Little elevation gain. Easy.

April 14 – Anacortes Community Forest Lands Meet at the west end of 29th Street off of D Avenue by the green water tower. Woods and open meadows, maybe some pond edges. Some hills. Moderate.

April 11: Yogurt Making At the Potluck Kitchen Studio, 910 11th St., Anacortes

See the whole schedule at TransitionFidalgo.org/skill-share

March 31 – Washington Park Meet in the parking lot by the restroom. This park is a botanical treasure and is especially glorious in the spring. Easy.

April 21 – Bowman’s Bay at Deception Pass State Park Meet in the Bowman’s Bay parking lot across from Pass Lake on the north side of the bridge. Park near the pier. Beach, woods and rocky headland. Some hills.

Celebrate Earth Day in the woods. Moderate.

April 28 – Goose Rock in Deception Pass State Park Meet in the parking lot at the south end of the bridge.

Woods and open bluffs full of spring flowers. Some hill.

Moderate.

May 5 – Sharpe County Park Entrance is off Rosario Road just south of Sharpe Road.

Pond, woods rich with mosses and lichens and open bluffs. Easy. Moderate to the bluffs.

May 12 – Washington Park A return visit. The park should be in full bloom. Meet in the parking lot by the restroom. Easy.

May 19 – Kettleholes on Whidbey Island and Fort Ebey Bluff Spectacular show of native rhododendrons. Meet at 9:00am at the SKAT Park and Ride, off SR20 at March Point Road to car pool or at 10:00am at the trail head at the entrance to Fort Ebey State Park. Limited parking.

Easy. Bring lunch to enjoy on the bluff.

May 26 – Cranberry Lake in Deception Pass State Park Meet near the vending stands and restrooms on the west side of the lake. Backshore, dunes and other habitat. Easy. Bring a lunch to enjoy later on the beach.

Information – Call Ann, 360-293-3044 or Susan, 360-659-8792 or 360-333-7437

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

Art in Bloom, at the Depot is open daily April 11 – 18.

Join the Opening Event and meet the artists on Saturday, April 11th at 6 pm. Art in Bloom includes 28 regional artists working in painting, photography, ceramic, sculpture, glass and fiber. Proceeds support the Anacortes School District Cultural Arts Program.

The Anacortes Arts Festival is expanding its April Tulip Festival events this year to include the 2nd Art in Bloom Fine Art Exhibition and a new Do the Bloom color run.

The NEW Color Run is a 5k fun run on Saturday, April 18th starting at the Depot at 9am and routing through the marina. Runners will be doused with colored powder every ½ mile. Kids and friendly dogs are welcome. Register at Active.com or the day of the race. Adults are $30, $10 for under 12. More information for both events on the Festival website, www.AnacortesArtsFestival.com

Anacortes Community Garden It is hard to believe this year starts the 7th year at the 29th Street community garden; 2014 was a very productive year. There were over 370 volunteer hours; 570 lbs. of produce was donated to our local food banks, and each garden plot had a bumper crop.

An herb garden was built which includes rosemary, thyme, oregano, etc., flowers were also included with the herbs to promote pollination. The plumbing will be replaced and placed 12-18” below the ground for two reasons, one to keep the pipes from freezing and also to keep them deep enough so they will not be hit when the gardeners are weeding.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

The Mount Erie school garden will have a slight design change to include a seating area for the students to write in the logs.

We are transforming the plot to the east of the shed, that is shaded in the afternoon, into a study area. This garden has been an ideal school garden thanks to the support of staff, the PTA and the students that are so enthusiastic about the aspects of gardening. Each year the students are learning something different as they continue from grade to grade. If you would like to help them build their study area, please visit the website at www.anacortescommunitygardens.org press the donate button; your help is very much appreciated. You can also find applications to lease a plot if you are interested.

4% Friday at the Mt. Vernon Co-op – April 24 – Please shop at the Co-op this day. The 4% proceeds will support the seed exchange, gleaning, and alternative to pesticides programs.

Seed Exchange - March 21 Anacortes Senior Center 701 22nd Street, Anacortes, WA 98221 This year we will be holding a seed exchange on March 21st from 1:00 – 3:00 PM, at the Anacortes Senior Center 1701 22nd Street, Anacortes, WA 98221. Our focus this year will be Non GMO, Organic and Heirloom seeds. We will also have education information on pollination along with alternatives to pesticides.

The Art of Gardening Event – April 25 & 26 at the Depot in Anacortes – We will be selling card sets and starts. Proceeds from the sales will go toward Mt. Erie Elementary School Garden.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Sylvia Cooper at 360-420-7774 (call or text), or you can email at sydcooper@gmail.com

360.293.1918 cityofanacortes.org

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News from Washington Park — Bob Vaux, Manager 360/661-3463

O

n one of many beautiful winter nights of late, a few minutes into dusk, having locked the gates, I had the chance to walk the Loop Road. I phoned a friend who was able to join me. We had just lost an important person to parks and our lives, and we spent time reflecting on his contributions to parks and forest lands, and his powerful legacy left for so many to come. We were sad but inspired by the crisp fading light and growing presence of stars and moon through the tops of trees silently marking our way.

Our conversation turned with each corner and switch back. “You know, Bob, I have asked a lot of Washington Park over the many years I have lived in this town, and it has always responded.” A concise thought that found its way deep inside my heart and head.

I am blessed to have many conversations with Park visitors enjoying the beauty of our west side forested wonder, but this line had a certain power I could not help but be moved by. The honesty of its delivery, the poignant moment of night’s first glimpse, and news of a fine soul lost from this earth.

In the early nineties as Tracy Powell was teaching me how to be the next Anacortes Community Forest Lands Manager, he summed up the job like this, “I am the church janitor.” I understood, and could not have been given a better job description.

There are so many wonderful ways our parks and forest lands contribute to our lives; the physical activity, the scenery, just knowing these acres exist and that generation after generation will continue to steward this powerful vision and gift bestowed upon us by our founding families.

Underneath these grand experiences are the countless private moments, inner journeys to profound understandings of life and how to live it. Public land is not simply natural resource protection sprinkled with multiuse recreation, it is the heart and soul of our lives. It is continuous inspiration.

As Wendell Berry wrote in ‘The Peace of Wild Things’:

I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief.

I come into the presence of still water.

2015 WASHINGTON PARK FEES BOAT TRAILER LOT PARKING:

CAMPGROUND FEES:

Resident* of Anacortes: $6.00 per day/$42.00 per week Non-Resident: $9.00 per day/$63.00 per week 14 day stay limit

UTILITY SITES: Resident: $21.00 per night Non-Resident: $25.00 per night NON-UTILITY SITES: Resident: $17.00 per night Non-Resident: $20.00 per night

SEASON PERMITS (JAN. 1 - DEC. 31): Resident: $126.00 Non-Resident: $189.00

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RESERVED GROUP PICNIC AREA:

LOT “B” SINGLE VEHICLE OVERNIGHT PARKING:

Monday – Thursday: $44.00 • Friday – Sunday: $63.00

$6.00 per night Showers - $.50 per shower Wood - $5.00 per bundle

*Resident defined as a person who has their primary residence or owns property within the City limits of Anacortes.

ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

RESERVED GROUP CAMP FEE: $94 per night

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

2014 TOUGH YEAR FOR AMERICAN POLICING 2014 was a tough year for American policing.

Several high profile use of force incidents have led many to question the integrity of law enforcement officers, especially in their treatment of minorities and their application of deadly force. Anacortes sometimes seems so insulated from other communities. But when bias policing incidents occurred in Seattle and other cities in our state, it caused me to reflect on our own police department. Are we using force correctly? Are we protecting the rights of those we serve? Do we have biases against certain groups?

Everyone has some bias. When I was a young police officer in the 1980’s, the Chevrolet Camaro was a popular car among men between the ages of 18-25. It is a fact that men between the ages of 18-25 account for a higher number of traffic infractions than other age and gender groups. I used to jokingly say, “You show me a red Camaro and I will show you a traffic ticket.� My experience was that many of my traffic infractions came from Camaros, especially red ones.

I had a bias. Not every Camaro owner was a traffic offender, not every young man is a traffic offender, but because some young men with a propensity toward traffic violations chose to drive that car, my experience was skewed to cause a bias.

More serious are the biases we may develop toward people because of their ethnicity, gender, age, or socio-economic status. Even if our experiences support our biases (like mine with the red Chevrolet Camaro), through training and selfawareness, police can and must still act impartially. When we ignore or deny our bias, we lose our impartiality, lack empathy, and act based on our prejudice.

The Anacortes Police Department has received training since 2006 in preventing Bias Based Policing. Our recruits are trained in the police academy and our officers are retrained every few years during in-service training. We take measures during our hiring process to ensure our officers are aware of their own biases and understand how their biases can impact their decisions.

The appropriate use of force, especially deadly force used by police, has also come under increased scrutiny. Police professionals who have high training standards, process accountability, and good reporting practices, welcome the dialogue.

Policing is inherently dangerous. The majority of police contacts are with people in crisis. The crisis may be exacerbated by drug and alcohol abuse, mental health issues, or cognitive disorders. An officer may have to take that person into custody for their own safety or in response to a criminal act. These are potentially volatile situations and even the best trained, most prepared officers will find themselves sometime having to make force decisions in fractions of a second.

Every officer learns in basic training that necessary force is the amount of force needed to effect the lawful purpose intended. Quite simply, the amount of force used must be reasonable, comparative to the amount of resistance or the perceived threat the officer is responding to. Officers must receive regular and specific training to respond to the physical threats they can encounter in the field. Police Departments must document all incidents where force is used, why it was used, and if it was appropriate within their policy and legal guidelines. If a department is not doing so they are placing their officers and communities at risk.

At the Anacortes Police we document every use of force, no matter how small, with a report. Each one is reviewed to ensure that training guidelines, policy, and the law were followed. Considering the at risk population officers sometimes encounter, the incidents of force applications are very low. Additionally our officers regularly train in the application of force, including hands free defensive tactics, Taser applications, and lethal force. Actual force is used in only a fraction of our arrests. In our analysis of 2014 Use of Force Reports there were no incidents in which officers acted outside of department policy.

Our department vision is to ensure public safety and earn public trust. In order to achieve this vision we constantly review our interactions with the public, and welcome public comments. We understand police authority comes not just from the law that bestows it on us, but from the citizens who delegate their authority to the police in order to promote their safety and ensure their rights.

360.293.1918 cityofanacortes.org

Bonnie Bowers Chief of Police

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2016 Comprehensive Plan Update On February 26, 2015, over 100 people turned out for a community workshop to learn, discuss and share opinions about various land use concepts being studied to accommodate projected growth and to achieve the community’s vision as part of the 2016 Comprehensive Plan update process.

Potential changes to land use designations and the urban growth area boundary were presented in terms of a “nochange to existing regulations” alternative, minor strategic changes to accommodate the minimum initial population allocation (22,293 people in 2036), and more modest changes to accommodate a higher level of growth. The alternatives were based on public input from previous workshops, Community Advisory Committee work, and Planning Commission and City Council input to date. Potential changes to minimum lot sizes in residential zones, building height increases in the Central Business District, Commercial and the Commercial Marine 1 zone on Fidalgo Bay, and large scale retail overlay zones east of R Avenue between 34th and 22nd St. or State Route 20 near March’s Point were some of the notable discussion points.

Participants also used stickers to indicate their preferences for draft goals within each element of the Comprehensive Plan, including Housing, Land Use, Transportation, and Economic Development. The results of the workshop, the fourth held as part of the update process, will assist in defining a preferred plan for further study and public input. An online survey aimed at obtaining additional public input on the alternative land use concepts is planned for the end of March, 2015. Notifications will go out when the survey is available.

Once a preferred plan is identified, City staff and MAKERS Urban Design and Architecture, the City’s consultant, will begin drafting the revised Comprehensive Plan elements for public review. Multiple additional opportunities for public comment are planned, including another public workshop tentatively scheduled for July, 2015, Planning Commission and City Council meetings, and public hearings.

Please visit www.cityofanacortes.org or contact Libby Grage, Planning, Community & Economic Development Department (libbyb@cityofanacortes.org or 360-299-1986) to find out more about the 2016 Comprehensive Plan update and to get involved.

26TH ANNUAL

Kids-R-Best Fest SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2015 11:00AM – 4:00PM

STORVIK PARK

• Live Entertainment • Inflatable Bouncer • Obstacle Course • Giant Slide • Pony Rides • Game Booths • Concessions • Craft Projects • And More!

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cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

Community a Contender in National Energy Efficiency Challenge If the always enthusiastic Russ Pittis is especially animated these days it is because the City of Anacortes recently received news that “we” are in the running for a $5 million prize from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Pittis, City of Anacortes Resource Conservation Manager, uses the word “we” regularly, because the successful road to the prize features an invitation for ALL city residents to participate in the competition.

Essentially, energy efficiency plans focus on energy use in city buildings, school buildings – and private homes.

“It is the residential component that gives everyone a chance to contribute to this campaign,” said Pittis. “The City and our school district officials are doing their part – but the greatest potential for energy savings is in our neighborhoods with each homeowner and actions they take to conserve energy.”

“In a nutshell, the Georgetown University Energy Prize challenges small to medium size towns, cities and counties to re-think their energy use,” notes Pittis. “In large part because of the contributions of a wonderful team of volunteers, we have created an energy efficiency plan which led to us being named one of just 50 semifinalists for the $5 million prize.”

To compete for the ultimate prize, the City and its residents will need to work together to demonstrate success that is defined as: “… sustainably reducing energy consumption” over the next two years.

As noted, Anacortes earned a spot among the top 50 U.S. applicants by submitting a letter of intent and a comprehensive community energy plan pro­duced by a team primarily made up of volunteers.

“After Mayor Gere signed on to this campaign about a year ago, we put together a task force of volunteers,” said Pittis. “For the past six months they have worked very hard. These folks are smart – and they have committed many hours in meetings, research, exchanges of emails – in their effort to make a difference in this community for years to come. There is a lot of passion behind their work.”

Photo Eric Shen

As noted, the Georgetown competition will track energy savings among contenders for a two-year period.

Accordingly, the City has launched a campaign to inspire, educate and report successes to its residents.

“We hosted a well-attended Energy Fair that featured lots of ideas about energy savings in the home,” said Pittis.

“Those ideas range from replacing incandescent bulbs to conducting a complete energy audit of your home.”

The City will create a highly visible, main street display located at Bayshore Office Supply, 603 Commercial, Anacortes. The display will have information about energy efficiency measures and energy efficiency incentives. A “dashboard” that reports progress will be displayed in the window.

“We will also continue to make such ideas accessible through our website, printed materials and local media,” Pittis emphasized.

The types of energy savings information that will be available to homeowner and businesses alike include: • Do-it-yourself home assessment • Puget Sound Energy (PSE) Free HomePrint assessment • Community Energy Challenge professional assessment • Cascade Natural Gas rebates • Installing a solar system While actions by individual homeowners represent the greatest opportunity for energy savings due to sheer numbers, schools and the City have also engaged in savings efforts.

At the City Library, for example, solar panels have been installed. Within the next few weeks, all outdoor street lights will be converted to LED lighting.

Payback on this $200,000 investment is estimated at four years. The Anacortes Middle School just recently added an 18.7 solar array to the existing 17.2 solar array on its roof.

“Am I excited about the prospect of winning $5 million for this community?” Pittis asks rhetorically.

“You bet! But the truth is, this competition is truly a win-win, because we would be pursuing energy efficiencies in our community even if we weren’t competing for the Georgetown prize. And everybody wins by saving money and making our community more resilient. We look forward to seeing a great energy savings effort in all areas of our community.”

Visit http://www.cityofanacortes.org/ PublicWorksAdmin/Community_ Energy_Plan.pdf to see the Anacortes Community Energy Plan.

360-293-1900 cityofanacortes.org

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Preserving and interpreting the history of Fidalgo and Guemes islands

CELEBRATING 125 YEARS OF ANACORTES HISTORY Open house 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, May 9 at the Depot At noon there will be a short program by Anacortes American Publisher Jack Darnton followed by a book release party featuring author and retired editor and publisher Wallie Funk.

May is a historic month in Anacortes: The Anacortes American was founded on May 15, 1890, and the City of Anacortes was incorporated on May 19, 1891. In 2015, this means that the community newspaper completes its 125th year just four days before the City begins its 125th year. At the same time, the Funk family just celebrated the 125th anniversary of the arrival of pioneers Valentine and Barbara Funk, here.

Pictures of the Past Coming May 9th “Pictures of the Past, Celebrating 125 Years of Anacortes History,” a compilation of the best Anacortes history stories written by retired American editor and co-publisher Wallie Funk.

The Anacortes Museum tips a hat to these three auspicious anniversaries with the release of our new book, “Pictures of the Past”, a compilation of Wallie Funk’s history columns which ran in the Anacortes American between 1994 and 2001. Like the original column, the book is lavishly illustrated with photos from the Anacortes Museum’s Wallie Funk Collection – the magnificent photo collection that played a key role in the establishment of the museum.

The American will host an open house anniversary celebration on May 9, which will double as the Anacortes Museum’s book release party for “Pictures of the Past: Celebrating 125 Years of Anacortes History.” Please join us for what is sure to be one of the liveliest events of the year, and get a copy signed by Wallie Funk himself.

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Marine Heritage Meets Marine The Anacortes Museum’s Maritime Heritage Center is strengthening ties with the Marine Technology Center with the loan of a cedar sculpture depicting the America’s Cup winner built here in Anacortes.

Museum staff will continue the tradition of hosting Marine Technology Center tours of the W.T. Preston – this and future loans as a way to introduce our rich maritime history to the students learning modern techniques.

The Western Red Cedar carving by chainsaw artist Nyal Thomas was commissioned by Janicki Industries, which provided high-tech tooling for construction of the trimaran.

The sculpture depicts ‘DoGzilla’ – nickname of the USA 17, winner of the America’s Cup yacht race in 2010, that was constructed by Core Builders in Anacortes.

The Maritime Heritage Center and W.T. Preston will be open weekends-only in April and May before transitioning to a full schedule in June, July, and August.

For more information visit the Anacortes Museum’s website at www.cityofanacortes.org/museum_department.php

360-293-1900 cityofanacortes.org

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City Council Members

Readers Question

Councilman Eric Johnson serves as Mayor Pro Tem for 2014-2015.

Brad Adams

Ward 2 Term Ends: 12/31/2015 2201 30th Street Anacortes, WA 98221 360-391-9771 brada@cityofanacortes.org

In our first edition of A-Town is Our Town we asked what kind of information you might want to know about. Cynthia Simonsen gave us a number of suggestions. Thank you Cynthia. One of those was what is okay and not okay to put in your recycling including weird stuff like horribly thick and stiff packaging that takes a chain saw to get in to it. We called our recycling contractor, and they said that most of that type of packaging is not recyclable, so it should go in the garbage. They said that most recyclable stuff has a recycle symbol on it. Here are some of the more common items and where they should go. If you don’t see what you have on the list give Republic Services (our recycling contractor) a call at 1-800-942-5965 and they will help answer your question.

Eric N. Johnson

Ward 3 Term Ends: 12/31/2015 2017 Piper Circle Anacortes, WA 98221 360-840-5415 ericj@cityofanacortes.org

Erica Pickett

Position 7 Term Ends: 12/31/2017 1112 18th Street Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-6264 ericap@cityofanacortes.org

John Archibald

Position 5 Term Ends: 12/31/2017 3001 Meridian Court Anacortes, WA 98221 360-395-5923 johna@cityofanacortes.org

Liz Lovelett

Position 6 Term Ends: 12/31/2017 PO Box 547 Anacortes, WA 98221 360-588-8707 lovelettl@cityofanacortes.org

Matt Miller

Position 4 Term Ends: 12/31/2017 818 Haddon Road Anacortes, WA 98221 360-588-9070 mattm@cityofanacortes.org

Ryan Walters

Ward 1 Term Ends: 12/31/2015 P.O. Box 547 Anacortes, WA 98221 360-610-7770 ryanw@cityofanacortes.org

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Understanding Our Drug Problem common misconception in our community is that drug abuse and drug addiction are interchangeable terms. During Mayor Gere’s Drug Summit last year, we were reminded they are not interchangeable.

Drug abuse occurs when drug use impacts behavior over a period of time (at least a year). Negative impacts include: work or school performance in activities drops; participation that compromises safety such as impaired driving or unexplained violent episodes; strains on family or social relationships; repeated contact with police for various minor criminal offenses; financial problems.

Drug addiction differs in that in addition to the symptoms of abuse, the person has developed a tolerance for the drug he or she is abusing. In short, it takes more of the drug to produce the desired effect. Without regular and increasing doses, addicts will have withdrawal symptoms, and will find themselves unable to stop their consumption even though they may want to do so. Last, they may start to take large amounts of other types of drugs. Abuse can develop into addiction, but not vice versa.

Another common misconception in our region is that drug abusers and addicts are arrested and jailed for long periods of time, overcrowding our jails with people who should be receiving help for their drug issues. This is simply not the case in Skagit County, or Washington State at large.

The Skagit County daily jail roster confirms that only a small percentage of inmates are held on drug charges. Those who are jailed on drug charges are either held on multiple serious felony offenses, or for drug dealing.

It is true that many offenders in custody have drug abuse and addiction issues.

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There is often a nexus between the crime they are incarcerated for and their abuse/addiction issue. For example, a burglar may have traded stolen goods for drugs. A mother charged with mistreating a child may have done so while under the influence of a narcotic.

Our correctional system at the county and state levels does offer assistance for offenders who want help with their drug abuse or addiction issues.

Our County, for example, offers Drug Court as an alternative to traditional prosecution. The program defers charges if the offender completes a rigorous two-year supervised treatment program. When it opens in 2017, the new Skagit County Jail will offer additional chemical dependency programs for inmates.

While drug courts and court ordered treatment have some success, it is important to note that coerced treatment is never as successful as voluntary treatment. An offender’s ability to recognize his or her addiction, the desire to stop using drugs, and a good support system are critical to success in treatment.

Ultimately, our best hope is in prevention. It is less expensive and more successful to teach young people about the hazards of abuse and addiction than to provide treatment for abusers and addicts.

Treatment resources need to be available locally to abusers before they slip into addiction. Currently there are no chemical dependency programs or treatments providers on Fidalgo Island.

Local leaders continue to work to attract a treatment provider to our area.

Working together we can make a difference in reducing drug use and abuse in our community.

360-293-1900 cityofanacortes.org

Volunteers Needed

Common to most fire departments in the U.S. is a dependence on volunteers to supplement career members. The Anacortes Fire Department is no exception.

“It is our ongoing objective to beef up our career staff of firefighter paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) with volunteers from the community,” said Fire Chief Richard Curtis. “We are in a constant recruitment and training process for volunteers.”

Volunteers must be 18 years or older and able to meet entry level standards that include minimum physical capabilities. Curtis also emphasizes that volunteers must be in a position to commit time to training.

“Our volunteers start with academy training, and then with local department orientation,” he said.

“After initial firefighter certification, which takes about 200 hours, training is ongoing.”

Once initial qualifications are met, the volunteer is assigned to a shift officer and a primary mentor and issued a training and orientation manual to complete before responding to calls. The majority of Anacortes Fire Department calls are medical emergencies, so volunteers are encouraged to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).

For details on the volunteer program, visit the city website: www. cityofanacortes.org/volunteer_ program.php.

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C I T Y

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A NAC O RT E S 904 6th Street P.O. Box 547 Anacortes WA 98221

ECRWSS Resident

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Anacortes, WA PERMIT NO. 22

A-town, FAQ, DYK We got so much response from the use of A-Town in our first edition of this publication that we thought we would throw out a few more abbreviations and see how they do. The good news about the “A-Town is Our Town” choice for a title of this publication is that we found out that people really care about Anacortes. Whether you refer to it as Anacortes, the edge, A-Town, Gateway to San Juan’s, the Rock, Anna-Cortez what matters is that you care about your town and what happens to it. We like that. Now for some Frequently Asked Questions and Did You Knows about Anacortes.

Did you know that this publication can be viewed online? Go to our website at www.cityofanacortes.org and you should be able to find a link to this publication.

Where does our drinking water come from?

The City of Anacortes draws water from the Skagit River through an intake station; water is then run through the treatment process at the water treatment plant. The plant is staffed 24 hours a day 365 days a year by highly trained, capable and dedicated plant operators. Once the water completes the treatment process it is pumped into a 3 million gallon storage reservoir in Anacortes, from there it enters the distribution system for delivery to your home.

Where does the water go after it is treated at the wastewater plant?

Treated water from the wastewater treatment plant is piped out into the Guemes Channel. The end of the pipe is located just to the west of the Port of Anacortes Pier 2.

How do I get my sidewalk replaced?

Contact the Street Department at (360) 293-1921. We will perform the labor and you purchase the material. This is a popular program and there is a waiting list.

What questions do you have or what would you like to know about our City? Send your questions to Gary Robinson at gary@ cityofanacortes.org or use the regular mail at P.O. Box 547, Anacortes, WA 98221.