A-Town Winter 2015

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2016 BUDGET COMMUNITY PROGRAMS ANACORTES BRIEFINGS QUARTERLY MENU

Winter 2016 City of Anacortes 6th and Q www.cityofanacortes.org 360-293-1900

CITY VOLUNTEERS 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.

Rick Machin Anacortes is a better place because of all the volunteers we have who like to give back to our community. Rick Machin volunteers in the parks and Anacortes Community Forest Lands pulling out ivy, scotch broom, holly, and almost any other non-native invasive plant you can name. Thanks Rick for your hard work, positive attitude, and all the time you have dedicated to the Parks and Forest Lands.

Dennis Clark When most people see all the ivy covering the trees on Cap Sante they avert their eyes. Not Dennis Clark.

Dennis volunteered over 160 hours removing ivy from 2,500 trees all over Cap Sante. He has also volunteered the equivalent of a work-week of his time removing ivy along the Thompson Trail and on School District Land.

Thanks Dennis, we appreciate all the work.

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CITY OF ANACORTES

by Laurie Gere, Mayor State and Federal agencies; promote conservation of resources for today and future generations; and provide attentive customer service and communication of all city business to each community member.

F council, and I have worked

or the last six months city staff,

diligently on the budget for next year. We started the process in early spring with a Board retreat, public outreach, and established the following community priorities for the budget.

We will complete our Comprehensive Plan in June 2016, and have started preparation of our strategic plan action steps for economic development to support the long-term viability of Anacortes.

Highlights of the 2016 budget are: • New restrooms for Storvik Park and Washington Park • Design work for improvements to South Commercial • Complete paving of D Avenue from 37th to 17th Street • Slurry seal project on Skyline streets • Design work for 3-million gallon water tank • Funding for sidewalk repair • Design and exploration of a municipal fiber optic network • Capital funding for our water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure • Maintain healthy cash reserve of over $8 million

• Community Enrichment • Public Safety • Community and Economic Development Planning • Essential Infrastructure • Stewardship and Conservation of Natural Resources • Enhancing Health and Social Services • Effective Government Management The budget is the tool or foundation for supporting the vision and goals for our town. The 2016 city budget continues to balance fiscal responsibilities and meet our priorities and goals. It reflects my expectation to maintain and improve our infrastructure; ensure safety for all our citizens; foster an environment that encourages creativity in finding solutions for important issues such as affordable housing and supporting a robust business community; continued collaboration with the Port, County,

I am excited to serve this fine city. I continue to keep my focus on our future and how to best meet the needs of our citizens. 2016 is going to be an amazing year!

Your Mayor,

Laure Gere

Photo taken at recent tour of Dakota Creek Industries, left to right: Mayor Price of Sidney BC, Dick Nelson, owner of DCI, Mayor Gere, John Sternlicht, Director of EDASC

A View on Retail Shop Personal and “Live Local”

Written by Councilman Matt Miller Council meetings that involve retail tend to draw a crowd and a wide range of passionate comments, including my own. This is because we have all had a retail experience, at least as a consumer.

Being an independent retailer for the last 11 years has given me another perspective I would like to share. There is always much discussion in the media during the holiday shopping season so I thought I would write about not just shopping local, but shopping personal and “living local.”

While there are so many facets of retail, there are some basic economic concepts. Consumer shopping behavior with regards to price, convenience, experience, value or just basic supply and demand are some of those factors.

Even though it seems very simplistic, retailers only sell items the customer actually buys and can only continue selling if the customer continues to buy.

One of the primary ways the City of Anacortes follows the retail dollar is tracking Taxable Retail Sales (TRS).

Keeping tabs is important to the City as the taxes from those sales make up about $4 million in revenue for the City.

What is the major source of TRS from retail in A-Town? Interestingly, if auto, marine, construction, and groceries are taken out of the equation, the number one TRS generator happens to come from one large internet retailer. This certainly makes sense given our tech savvy community and the consumers’ desire to have access to anything at anytime. The internet has provided what the consumer has demanded and the consumer is buying.

One of the challenging questions I get is, “Why don’t we have more retail choices in Anacortes?” It is hard to answer, mainly because I cannot think

of anything you cannot get via the internet. Given the TRS data, many folks in Anacortes have figured it out. Is this good for our community? Don’t get me wrong, I certainly occasionally, shop online, but is it a personal experience between me and the owner/operator of the business? Does it enhance our sense of community? I, for one, think not. When it comes to retail we the residents, and to some extent our out of town guests, determine what our retail looks like, via our spending habits. It is not the City Council that makes this determination even if we wanted to, but the consumer.

The other question I get, “Why are the J. C. Penney Companies or other shops of yesteryear gone? The answer is also not so simple. Likely, it comes down to simple math; folks were just not buying enough merchandise to cover the cost of inventory, rent, insurance, utilities, and employee pay to make the business viable in our relatively small city.

Our community’s local character and prosperity thrive when we support its unique and diverse locally owned businesses. Local businesses foster community well-being by building strong neighborhoods, sustaining communities, and contributing more to local causes. Local ownership means local decision making by people who live in the community and share in the effect of those decisions.

This season and every season, I will continue to promote all shop local campaigns and encourage you to support our local businesses who are also your neighbors so that we can all make a meaningful difference in our communities. Don’t just buy local. Go a step further and buy personal and “Live Local.”

TABLE OF CONTENTS ANACORTES BRIEFINGS Mayor Laurie Gere.....................................2 City Volunteers...........................................2 Council Member’s Perspective ............3 Survey Monkey...........................................4 Front Cover Photographer.....................4 2016 Comprehensive Plan.....................4 Fiber Optics..................................................5 Budget Revenues......................................6 Budget Expenditures...............................7

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

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS Fidalgo Pool.............................................. 15 Anacortes Soo Bahk Do........................ 16 Senior Activity Center........................... 17 News From WA Park............................... 18 Friends of the Forest.............................. 19 Class Act School Performing Arts........ 20 Anacortes Public Library................21-23 Anacortes Museum..........................24-25 Fidalgo Dance Works............................. 26 Anacortes Senior College.................... 27 Friends of Skagit Beaches.................... 28 Highlights of Proposed Budget......... 29 Anacortes Lodging Tax......................... 29 Streaming Video..................................... 30 Let Us Hear From You............................ 30 Our Town................................................... 31 Dumpster Rentals................................... 31 Community Energy................................ 32 Bonnie Bowers......................................... 33 ADA Ramp ................................................ 33 City Council Members.......................... 34 Community Task Force......................... 34 Safe Winter Driving................................ 35 Holiday Solid Waste Schedule........... 35 A-town is Our Town Published by: How It Works Graphic Design: Dixie Shervington CITY OF ANACORTES

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Survey Monkey

We are trying out a new feature that we are hoping to include in each edition of the “A-Town is Our Town” publication where we conduct an unscientific survey to get a general sense of how some of our citizens feel about certain topics. These surveys will not dictate what we do but will give us another means of collecting public opinion on some topics. In this editions test, we are looking for information on how we can better communicate with our public.

Please help us out by going online to the link below and completing a few simple questions.

Front Cover Photographer Anacortes is an amazing city, hands down one of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest. With vistas that encompass Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands, plus the lakes, mountains, sunsets, and the people, I continually find this region inspiring. Having the honor to capture spectacular moments and share them with visitors and the local community is very satisfying.

Through my photographs, I aim to showcase and enhance the beauty of my surroundings, and hope you will also feel inspired by the work I’ve created.

Rakan AlDuaij photosbyrakan@gmail.com www.photosbyrakan.com www.facebook.com/photosbyrakan Tel: (954) 667-7727

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CITY OF ANACORTES

2016 Comprehensive Plan Update In mid-2016 the City anticipates completion of a major update of the Comprehensive Plan, the blueprint that guides the City’s growth over the next 20 years. Over the past year and a half, community engagement activities and public input have helped to inform proposed updates to the plan and the DRAFT 2016 Comprehensive Plan is now available for public review and comment. The draft plan encompasses topics that address the physical, social, and economic health of the city including land use, housing, economic development, environment and conservation, parks & recreation/open space, transportation, capital facilities, and utilities elements.

Some of the priority topics covered in the draft plan include: Housing affordability and variety; accommodating growth while maintaining community character; sustainability and climate change; desired development of the downtown and central Fidalgo Bay waterfront; and development of a multi-modal transportation system.

Other key proposed updates and changes include: •

Updated population and employment projections, extending the GMA planning horizon to 2036

•

Future Land Use Map amendments to provide greater capacity and flexibility for residential and commercial development

•

Policy and text amendments to incorporate public input and reflect updated State guidance

•

Format changes to increase the information content, accessibility, and readability of the document

An extensive visioning effort resulted in the following Vision Statement for Anacortes, which guided development of the draft plan: Anacortes is a unique, creative, vibrant, and caring maritime waterfront community that supports cultural and economic diversity and vitality, balances sustainable growth with respect for our history, and protects our natural environment, and public lands for future generations.

The public is encouraged to provide input on the draft Comprehensive Plan goals and policies and proposed land use designations. The draft plan and associated documents can be accessed here: http://www.cityofanacortes.org/ CompPlan20161stDraft.php.

Additional opportunities for public comment are planned, including multiple Planning Commission and City Council meetings in early 2016. Meetings will be noticed using various methods, including mailings, email, on the City’s website, publication in the Anacortes American, and other methods. You can sign up to receive email notifications by visiting the above-referenced website.

Please 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 or to submit written comments.

Fiber Optic Broad Band Network Like many other cities across the America, Anacortes is looking at installing and operating a fiber optic broadband network as early as next year for residents within city limits. Our fiber optic network would offer internet services about 50 times faster and much cheaper than Internet services from companies such as Comcast and Wave Broadband. Our Network would be a Fiber To The Home [FTTH] model, the vision is to provide a fiber internet connection to each home and business in the City.

There are many benefits of having a municipal fiber optic based broadband network. Definitely the cheaper cost and the higher connection speeds are important. There are many other positive effects

“Communities across America have built their own broadband networks to ensure access to affordable, reliable, and fast networks.”

- Institute for Local Self-Reliance “Upgrading to higher speed broadband lets consumers use the Internet in new ways, increases the productivity of American individuals and businesses, and drives innovation throughout the digital ecosystem.”

- Executive Office of President Obama

• Municipal networks create jobs • Municipal networks attract new business • Municipal networks serve existing businesses and keep critical jobs in town • Municipal networks support home-based productivity • Municipal networks advance healthcare, education, and research • Municipal networks initiate tech booms and incubate start-ups • Municipal networks save money, which can be reinvested in local economies • Municipal networks increase home values If you would like to know more about the City of Anacortes Fiber Optic Broad Band Network Please contact Fred Buckenmeyer, Public Works Director 360.293.1919 or at coa.publicworks@cityofanacortes.org

CITY OF ANACORTES

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22.2%

22.8%

PROPERTY TAX 5,164,723

SALES TAX 4,816,489

Anacortes has one of the lowest property tax rates in the region, with a rate of $1.76 per $1,000 in assessed value.

For every $100 in purchases residents, businesses, and visitors pay $8.50 in sales tax.

Of this amount the City receives 85 cents.

The majority, $6.50, goes to the State.

18.4%

FINES AND FORTEITURES 200,165

UTILITY TAX 3,982,911

Collected through the Anacortes Muncipal Court.

Residents and businesses pay Utility Tax of 6% of the gross bill for private utilites, such as electric, gas, and telephone; and 7% on public utilities, such as water and sewer.

OTHER REVENUE 324,483

Is made up primarily of interest earnings and lease revenues.

13.2%

1.5%

CHARGE FOR SERVICES 2,869,932

LICENSES AND PERMITS 1,067,440

Charges are made up of billing users of the Ambulance service, and for services provided by the General Fund to other funds.

10.7%

Is made up primarily of charges related to building and development of residences or businesses.

GRANTS AND INTERLOCAL 2,307,747

The City recieves various grants from state and federal agencies, such as road construction grants; and payments through agreements with other governments such as a portion of the EMS levy to support the City's Ambulance service.

TO TA L

6

.9%

OTHER TAXES 1,234,689

Other taxes are primarily restricted tax revenues, such as Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax for street maintenance, and Real Estate Excise Tax for qualifying public works projects.

$21,968,578

3.6% 5.7%

1.3% PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 318,489 These expenditures are largely the Cemetery services the City provides.

2.6%

JUDICIAL 623,396

3.2%

This department provides municipal court services, as well as Public Defense for indigent citizens.

.7%

40.2%

SOCIAL SERVICES 175,928

PUBLIC SAFETY 9,571,598

Support the City provides to various qualifying Social services.

Anacortes provides around the clock Police, Fire, and Ambulance Services

DEBT SERVICE 773,360

This is the debt service on the Library, and the Police and Fire stations. Scheduled to be paid off in 2020, and 2018, respectively.

5.0% 5.8%

CULTURE AND RECREATION 3,612,604

INTERFUND 1,014,438

The City provides the only Library in the county that is open 7 days a week, a Parks department providing a full array of community and sports programs, management of its 3600 acres of forestland, and a fully staffed Museum.

These are operating transfers between funds, such as Real Estate Excise Tax transfers into the Road Fund.

ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 1,469,038

These expenditures are primarily in the Planning department, Lodging Tax fund, and Economic Development fund.

6.1%

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 2,494,351

CAPITAL OUTLAY 1,703,251

This category is largely the Road Construction Fund and Parks Construction Fund.

TO TA L

TRANSPORTATION 2,684,191

Consists primarily of the Road Maintenance Fund

Consists of City Council, the Mayors office, Finance, Administrative Services, Informations Services, and Facilities maintenance.

15.0%

10.3%

9.7%

$24,440,643

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HANDY NUMBERS City Hall.................................................................... 293-1900 *Emergencies............................................................Dial 911 Facilities................................................................... 299-1961 Finance..................................................................... 299-1962 Fire Department..................................................293-1925*

Quarterly Menu

Human Resources................................................. 299-1941 Library...................................................................... 293-1910 Legal.......................................................................... 293-1912 Maintenance & Operations................................ 293-1921 Mayor’s Office......................................................... 299-1950 Museum................................................................... 293-1915 Municipal Court..................................................... 293-1913 Parks and Recreation........................................... 293-1918 Permit Center......................................................... 293-1901 Planning Department......................................... 293-1907 Police Department.............................................293-4684* Public Works........................................................... 293-1919 Wastewater Tx Plant............................................ 299-0953 Water Treatment Plant........................................ 428-1598

COMMUNITY RESOURCES American Red Cross.............................................. 293-2911 Anacortes American............................................. 293-3122 Anacortes School District................................... 293-1200 Anacortes Senior Center..................................... 293-7473 Boys & Girls Club.................................................... 588-9045 Chamber of Commerce ....................................... 293-7911 ....................................... 293-3832

Driver’s Licensing Office...................................... 588-0508 Fidalgo Pool & Fitness Center........................... 293-0673 Island Hospital....................................................... 299-1300 Passport Applications.......................................... 293-1910 Port of Anacortes.................................................. 293-3134 SKAT Transit............................................................. 757-4433 US Post Office.......................................................... 299-6689 Vehicle/Vessel Licensing Office........................ 293-5533 WA State Ferries........................................... 800-843-3779 Waste Management of Skagit................. 800-592-9995

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The Menu is published four times per year: Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall. The next issue (Spring) should be in mailboxes around the beginning of April 2016. The current issue will have events and programs offered by the Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department (APRD). 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. Such classes are canceled if the minimums are not met. Therefore, if you signup 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, Dec. 14th.

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 can still register over the phone. This can be done by giving a debit/credit card number.

Or, if participants would rather

ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

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.

Tango Tuesday Learn the basics of this magical dance. You will be prepared to confidently attend your first social dance. Tango is about connection. It exercises your mind, body, and soul. Start your new year journey inspired! To registster for the level 2 class you have taken level 1 as more complex skills, embellishments and musicality are expanded on.

You don’t even need to bring your own partner. (If you sign up as a couple the fee is $80) 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 evening and are available for purchase on our online registration webpage. Pay $15 for 5 sessions that can be used when convenient for you. Practica sessions have very little instruction and are more of an opportunity for dancers to practice their technique.

LOCATION: The Depot (611 R Ave) INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Pamela Good MIN/MAX: 5/30 FEE: $50 ($80 per couple) Level 1 Ages 18+

Day Tues

Level 2 Ages 18+

Date 1/5 - 2/23

Time 6:00-7:00P

*Must demonstrate ability of tango basics.

Day Tues

Date 3/8 - 4/26

Time 6:00-7:00P

Drop In Volleyball 18+ Fidalgo Elementary Gym Wednesdays & Fridays (7:00-10:00pm)

Slow Break Basketball 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) 360.293.1918

Gentle Yoga

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

Accommodations Accommodations are are taught taught for for those those with with limitations due to injury, etc.

Kate Bowers teaches limitations due to injury, etc. Kate Bowers teaches yoga yoga with with aa light light hearted, hearted, compassionate compassionate approach approach that fosters self-acceptance and increased that fosters self-acceptance and increased selfselfconfidence. confidence. She She integrates integrates traditional traditional Hatha Hatha yoga yoga with with breath breath work work and and Neurotherapy Neurotherapy play play to to sharpen sharpen thinking thinking and and improve improve memory. memory. For For winter winter we we are are offering a 12-week program.

Bring a blanket and offering a 12-week program. Bring a blanket and firm firm pillow pillow or or extra extra firm firm blanket. blanket. Payment Payment is is required required at the time of registration.

Registration is available at the time of registration. Registration is available online. online. **Late **Late registrations registrations will will be be taken. taken. Please Please inquire with the parks and recreation department. inquire with the parks and recreation department.

Children Children 6 6 and and older older are are welcome welcome if if accompanied accompanied by by an attending adult and with prior consent from Kate. an attending adult and with prior consent from Kate.

LOCATION: Senior Activity Activity CenterCenter- Sunrise Sunrise Room Room LOCATION: Senior INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Kate Bowers INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Kate Bowers MIN/MAX: MIN/MAX: 5/25 5/25 FEE: FEE: $144 $144 Ages Day Date Time Ages Day Date Time 18 Thurs 1/21 4/7 6:00-7:30P 18 + + Thurs 1/21 -- 4/7 6:00-7:30P

Pee Wee Basketball

For For kids kids ages ages 4-6 4-6 and and who who are are interested interested in in learning learning how to play the game of basketball.

FUNdamental how to play the game of basketball. FUNdamental age age appropriate appropriate games games and and drills drills will will be be played played to to maximize enjoyment by all participants.

This maximize enjoyment by all participants. This activity activity is is designed designed to to give give children children the the opportunity opportunity to to be be introduced introduced to to the the sport sport in in aa fun, fun, safe, safe, and and nonnoncompetitive competitive atmosphere. atmosphere. A A “mini” “mini” basketball basketball and and lower hoops are used for ultimate success.

Participants lower hoops are used for ultimate success. Participants will will get get to to keep keep their their “mini” “mini” ball ball for for their their participation. participation.

Space is limited, be sure to sign-up early!!!

Space is limited, be sure to sign-up early!!! Please Please signsignup up and and pay pay the the Parks Parks and and Recreation Recreation department department before before the the first first class. class.

LOCATION: Anacortes Middle Middle School School Gym Gym LOCATION: Anacortes INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Dustin INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Dustin South South MIN/MAX: 10/30 MIN/MAX: 10/30 FEE: FEE: $25 $25 Ages Day Date Time Ages Day Date Time 4-6 Sat 1/9-2/6 9:00-9:50A 4-6 Sat 1/9-2/6 9:00-9:50A 4-6 Sat 1/9-2/6 10:00-10:50A 4-6 Sat 1/9-2/6 10:00-10:50A

**Sessions are low. low. **Sessions may may be be combined combined if if participant participant numbers numbers are cityofanacortes.org ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION 9

Dallas Kloke Sunset Loop 10-mile Relay Run Start forming your teams now or start training to run it solo. The 2016 Sunset Loop 10mile Relay Run event will take you over an undulating paved course. Each leg of the run is 2-1/2 miles through beautifully forested Washington Park. During the run there are many views of the water and islands that surround the park. Teams register together, or if you are courageous enough to try it by yourself you can register to do the entire run solo. Two and three person teams are also welcome, but you’ll still have to run the entire 10 miles. The fee is $80 per four-person team (with shirt) and $20 per team (w/out shirt.) Or individual fees of: $20 w/shirt, $10 w/ out shirt.

There are several team divisions to choose from. For more information or to register please visit the parks and recreation event page at: www.cityofanacortes.org. Participants must pre-register in order to guarantee they receive their shirt by the event day. Pre-registrations are due by Friday, February 26.

LOCATION: Washington Park Sunset Loop Road FEE: Varies (see description above) Ages All

Day Sat

Date 3/12

Time 10:00A

(on-site registration and check-in starts at 9:00 a.m.)

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ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

Dream Workshop, The Art and Science of Dreaming!

A weekend of exploration and playfulness with The Art and Science of Dreaming will provide you with techniques and practices to help you remember and transform your dream life. No matter if you enjoy lucid dreaming or have primarily nightmares, you are welcome to sign up for one, two, or three sessions over the weekend.

Co-Leaders Paul Sheldon and Kari Sherman will present exercises to improve dream recall and deepen your experience of your own dream world. Join us for a fun 2-hour introduction on Friday and see what you can glean from your sleep that evening. Then return for the deeper dives on Saturday and/or Sunday from 10-4 with a break for lunch and siesta. We will share dreams and discuss how to remember, feel good and be free in them. You will come away with take-home exercises and three weekly dream conference calls to support you in deepening your understanding and experience of your dreams. For more information visit Limnosophy.net or email kari.sherman@limnosophy.net or paul.sheldon@ limnosophy.net LOCATION: The Depot (611 R Ave) INSTRUCTOR: Paul Sheldon and Kari Sherman MIN/MAX: 5 FEE: Fri: $10, Sat $49, Sun $49

Ages 18+

Day Fri Sat Sun

Date 1/8 1/9 1/10

Time 6-8P 10A - 4P 10A - 4P

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 to one person per session, these are individual lessons, so register early.

LOCATION: Senior Activity Center (1701 22nd ST) INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Braydn Krueger MIN/MAX: 1/1 FEE: $99 Ages Day Date Time 8+ Fri 2/19 - 3/11 4:00-4:45P 8+ Fri 2/19 - 3/11 4:45-5:30P 8+ Fri 2/19 - 3/11 5:30-6:15P 8+ Fri 2/19 - 3/11 6:15-7:00P

Messy Me Does your child like to get messy while doing art projects? Sign your child up for this popular class and come to class each week and make fun and new art projects, play in the water table, rice bin and with play dough.

At the end of each class we will circle up and sing a few songs and get those little bodies moving. You leave all the cleaning up to me, you walk away with a happy child and a few art projects for home.

LOCATION: Senior Center, Sunrise Room 1701 22nd Street INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: 10/20 FEE: $25 per person Ages 1-3 yrs 1-3 yrs

Day Wed Wed

Date 1/20 - 2/17 3/2 - 3/30

Time 10:00-10:45A 10:00-10:45A

Child & Babysitting Safety 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. A Mini first aid kit will be given to each student and is included in the class fee. Bring a water bottle and a sack lunch. The class is held on a “non-school� day.

LOCATION: City Council Chambers INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Sheila Davis MIN/MAX: 10/25 FEE: $48 per person Ages 10+ yrs 10+ yrs

Day Fri Fri

Date 2/12 4/1

Time 9:00A-3:00P 9:00A-3:00P

Beginning Spanish For Kids Students will be immersed in Spanish language environment while learning basic Spanish conversation skills through familiar games and activities. Students will learn to describe themselves and talk to each other about their likes and dislikes, favorite foods, favorite activities and more. Stacy Adam, is an experienced elementary and Spanish teacher, who has also taught and studied in South America.

Field House Fun

LOCATION: Senior Center, Sunrise Room 1701 22nd Street INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Stacy Adam MIN/MAX: 6/10 FEE: $75.00

LOCATION: Volunteer Park Field House (1915 13th Street) INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: 10/20 FEE: $15 per person

Grade 1st-3rd

Ages 18 mo - 3 yrs 18 mo - 3 yrs

Day Thurs

Date 1/21 - 2/25

Time 4:30-5:30P

Do you have a toddler that needs to burn some energy?

Come spend the morning going through some fun and drills involving soccer, basketball, keep away, tag and other follow the leader type of activities. Adult participation is required to help encourage your little toddler to move and get involved. There is no special equipment needed. (Shirt included)

Day Tues Tues

Date 2/9 - 3/1 3/8 - 3/29

Time 10:00-10:30A 10:00-10:30A

ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

11

Take Better Pictures with Your Digital DSLR PiYo PiYo isn’t like standard Pilates and yoga classes that make you hold long, intense poses, or lead you through dozens of repetitive, microscope core movements. PiYo speeds everything upincluding your results- by introducing you to dynamic, flowing sequences that can burn series calories at the same time as they lengthen and tone your muscles and increase your flexibility. Bring a yoga mat, towel and water.

LOCATION: City Hall Gym INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Kelli Schlarmann, ACE certified personal trainer with a PiYo certification FEE: $7 per class

Ages Open

Date 1/18 - 2/17 M/W

Time 9:30-10:30

2/22 - 3/30 M/W

9:30-10:30

(no class 3/21 & 3/23)

1/23 - 3/19 SAT

8:00-9:00

Taking pictures with your new DSLR is easy, just set it on auto and shoot away. Capturing GOOD pictures with your new DSLR…that’s harder. Quality photography starts with understanding how to set your exposure manually. This is NOT difficult to do.

In this 3 hour workshop we’ll cover aperture and shutter speed and show you how to change them on your camera. Next we’ll discuss how to use these settings to create the image you want. Bracketing the exposure is a very key part of this and will set you on the right path. We will also cover the use of polarizers and capturing images in the RAW format.

Andy has been capturing images of the Great Northwest for more than a decade and his images have graced the covers of many local and national magazines, books, and web sites. You can see more of Andy’s work at: www.AndyPorterImages.com LOCATION: Senior Activity Center (1701 22nd ST) INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Andy Porter MIN/MAX: 4/20 FEE: $53 Ages 13+ 13+

Day Wed Wed

Date 1/20 3/16

Time 6:00-9:00P 6:00-9:00P

Andy Porter is a nature photographer living here in Skagit Valley for the last 11 years. His work has found its way in to many magazines, such as Backpacker and Northwest Travel. He has been an instructor for many years and loves to share all he knows about photography and exploring our fantastic state. You can see his work at: www.andyporterimages.com

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ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

How to Compose a Perfect Picture

Basics of Photo Editing

“Having an eye” for photography is definitely an acquired skill! Once you learn the basic tools and practice you’ll have it. In this class we will cover the basics of composition: subject placement; use of the horizon; reflections; leading lines; the Rule of Thirds; framing and more. We will study in the class room and also spend time outdoors, practicing what we learned. Anyone with any camera will get a lot from this class. This class is for anyone with any type of camera!

Everyone knows that the best time to take pictures is in the early morning or just before sunset. The problem is that the human eye can see much more than any camera can possibly capture. In this class you will learn how to make your images look like the scene you saw! Getting started in photo editing can be a bit overwhelming, but the rewards are fantastic.

This class is for users of Photoshop, Lightroom and Elements.

Andy Porter is a nature photographer living here in Skagit Valley for 11 years. His work has found its way in to many magazines, such as Backpacker and Northwest Travel. He has been an instructor for many years and loves to share all he knows about photography and exploring our fantastic state. You can see his work at: www.andyporterimages.com.

LOCATION: Senior Activity Center (1701 22nd ST) INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Andy Porter MIN/MAX: 4/20 FEE: $53 Ages 13+

Day Wed

Date 2/10

Time 6:00-9:00P

Andy Porter is a nature photographer living here in Skagit Valley for 11 years. His work has found its way in to many magazines, such as Backpacker and Northwest Travel. He has been an instructor for many years and loves to share all he knows about photography and exploring our fantastic state. You can see his work at: www.andyporterimages.com.

LOCATION: Senior Activity Center (1701 22nd ST) INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Andy Porter MIN/MAX: 4/20 FEE: $53 Ages 13+

Day Wed

Date 3/23

Time 6:00-9:00P

Photos by Andy Porter Photography

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Youth Track and Field Kids Night Out Information about the 2016 youth track and field program was not available at the time this publication was printed. Because the renovation project at the high school will be starting during the spring of 2016 it is unclear at this time whether the track and the field at the high school will be available. So please check back later in February and March to see if we have more information on whether we will have a program this year or not. Please visit the Anacortes Parks and Recreation Youth Programs web page at www.cityofanacortes.org to stay informed on the status of the youth track and field program.

Day Thurs

Date 2/11

Time 5:00-8:00P

Egg Dash

Ages

Day

12 & under Fri

LOCATION: Senior Center Sunrise Room 1701 22nd Street INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Nicole Johnston MAX: 400 FEE: $25 per pair, additional $6 per daughter

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Ages 4-12

LOCATION: Storvik Park FEE: Free

Dads take this opportunity to take your daughter out for a special night. This dance is open to dads and daughters of all ages. This night is full of music, dancing, punch and other tasty treats. There is an ongoing raffle throughout the night, all ticket holders will have their named entered into the drawing. Capacity is limited and tickets need to be purchased in advance, so call APRD today 293-1918 or go online to www.cityofanacortes.org. Theme is going to be Paris! We encourage you to dress up and make the most of this night with your daughter.

Day Sat

LOCATION: Senior Center Sunrise Room INSTRUCTOR/SUPERVISOR: Nicole Johnston MIN/MAX: 6/20 FEE: $15 per person

Save the Date for this Fun egg dash that happens at Storvik Park. Kids 12 & under will get the chance to dash for plastic filled eggs with candy. We divide the egg hunt into three areas, 3 & under, 4-6 years old and 7-12 years old. Don’t be late for this dash, as it is ends quick.

Daddy Daughter Dance

Ages Open

Kids are you ready for a night out? Come hang with the friendly parks and recreation staff for the night.

We will feed you dinner, entertain you with some fun silly games and also do a few art projects. Parents take advantage of this opportunity to do something for you or enjoy quiet time in the house.

Date 2/27

Time

3/25

6:00P

Coed Volleyball The deadline to register will be April 8th. The volleyball program is on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting April 26th through early June. We are starting the season a little earlier, so that there is less end of school activities to conflict with the volleyball season. Teams will practice on Tuesday’s and play games on Thursdays. There will also be a FUN end of season mini tournament where all the teams will get to play each other one last time. Volleyball knee pads are highly recommended, but not required. We will group 3rd/4th graders on teams and the 5th/6th graders on teams.

LOCATION: Practices and Games will all be held at Anacortes Middle School FEE: $38 Grader

Day

Date

3rd-6th

Tues & Thur

Starting 4-26 4:00-7:00P

Time 6:00-9:00P

ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

Date

cityofanacortes.org 360.293.1918

Time

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

January 2 - March 31 Winter Schedule 2016 SWIM LESSONS

Session I: Session II: Session III:

Jan 11 - Feb 4 Feb 8 - Mar 3 Mar 7 - Mar 31

Mon/Wed or Tues/Thurs: 10:00 - 11:30 am & 4:30 - 6:30 pm Fee per session: $42 Resident/$45 Non-resident 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 and more!

Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 10:00 pm Saturday: 12:30 - 8:00 pm Sunday: 3:00 - 7:00 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

LAP SWIM & WATER WALKING Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday:

5:00 am - 2:00 pm & 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm 5:00 am - 2:00 pm & 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm 5:00 am - 2:00 pm & 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm 5:30 am - 2:00 pm & 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm 5:00 am - 2:00 pm & 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm 7:00 am - 8:30 am 11:30 am - 1:00 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 Mon/Wed: 8:00 - 9:00 am

Tues/Thurs:

Fri:

Water Exercise Aquaerobics 9:00 - 10:00 am AquaFit & Strength 7:30 - 8:30 am Power Fitness 8:30 - 9:30 am Motion ‘n’ Mind 9:30 - 10:30 pm Aqua Core & More 5:30 - 6:30 Aqua Zumba 8:00 - 9:00 am Deep Aquaerobics 9:00 - 10:00 am Deep H2O 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 GROUP X CLASSROOM SCHEDULE: MW: 9:00 - 10:00 am SilverSneakers® Classic

MWF: TTH:

F:

SAT:

10:00 - 10:45 am Butts & Guts 12:15 - 12:45 pm Tabata Time 11 am - 12 pm Gentle Yoga 8:00 - 9:00 am Strength & Conditioning 10:00 - 11:00 am Zumba Gold 11 am - 12 pm Functional Strength 9:00 - 10:00 am Muscular Strength 10:00 - 11:00 am Sizzle!

9:30 - 10:30 am Butt & Guts

Weekend Times may extend depending on pool rentals. Please call ahead.

Some lap swim/water walking space may be shared with other programs.

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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

Day

Class

7:00 - 8:00 a.m.

Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs/Fri Adults & Teens

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.

Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs Mon/Wed Tues

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Most Thursdays

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Sat Sat

Tigers (4-6 years) Children (7+)/Families/Adults Children (7+)/Families/Adults Private lessons by appointment Midnight Blue and Red Belts Wu Style Tai Chi* ($10/class-no add’l charge for monthly SBD Students

Health/Flexibility

Midnight Blue and Red Belts Children (7+)/Families/Adults

* Call to schedule/confirm (360)299-2905 SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE $65 monthly for 2 or more classes per week; $50 monthly for Crouching Tigers.

Family and Military discounts available. Private lessons - $30

Focus

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

■ 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, including diabetes, MS, and Parkinsons Disease.

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2117 O Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98221 (360) 299-2905

Colette and Andy Arvidson

See our schedule, photos, videos, and more at www.anacorteskarate.com

Korean Soo Bahk Do® Association World Moo Duk Kwan®

ANACORTES SOO BAHK DO

SENIOR ACTIVITY

17

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

O

n a crisp recent autumn morning, I happened upon an Anacortes resident using the Washington Park dumpsters for his home needs. This park visitor and local taxpayer felt that since he was paying for the Park and all of its associated fees (yes, we pay a sanitation bill just like everybody else with a dumpster or garbage can) via his property tax, he could dump whatever he wanted into the Washington Park dumpsters. It became clear to me that we need to do a better job about educating the public on how Washington Park is funded.

If we take a closer look at the issue, we find that the funding for Washington Park comes more from user fees than tax dollars.

Our 220-acre west end gem is a favorite of many, and always an interesting discussion throughout the annual City budget process. Washington Park is a unique funding model amongst the many important staff, programs and infrastructure that receives annual public support from the City of Anacortes.

While technically not defined as an Enterprise Fund, the daily maintenance and operations of Washington Park are primarily paid for by its visitors. The two main streams of revenue are camping fees and boat lot parking fees. In 2014, camping took in $137,500, and boat lot revenues were $83,500 and miscellaneous fees of $27,000. Actual expenses for that year were $238,000. The $10,000 that was not expended in 2014, was invested back into the Park’s 2015 budgeted expenses.

The Mayor and City Council have for decades been committed to putting Washington Park’s revenues directly back into the Park. This model of support is a rarity amongst local legislative bodies, as well as state and federal. So often successful revenue programs and facilities are pilfered at budget time. Not Washington Park. We residents of Anacortes can be proud that the dollars spent there stay there. This frees up the General Fund for many other City budget needs.

The 2.2 mile Loop Road at Washington Park is one of the City of Anacortes’ most popular attractions. It also happens to be a coveted exercise route, nature walk and general gathering point for many locals. Large numbers of regulars enjoy the relative tranquility of the Loop prior to the daily opening of the gates at 10AM. These gates used to open at the break of day, but folks got together and asked the Parks Dept. for some non-motorized relief. After a lengthy and often contentious process, the 10AM opening policy was put into place. With every user group of the Loop Road increasing in number, we ask that you use patience, understanding and caution no matter how you travel its windy path.

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CITY OF ANACORTES

LE • DRIVE TOGET LK • CYC H

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

T

he Friends of the Forest is a not for 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, Ethnobotany and Nature Writing 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 7th grade. Our community hikes are free and no registration is required. Please join us this winter as we continue to explore and learn more about the ACFL together.

For more information about our group or these hikes please contact Denise Crowe or Jean Andrich at 293-3725. You may also visit our website www.friendsoftheacfl.org or email us at info@friendsoftheacfl.org. Please understand that our hikes are for people only, we ask that you leave your pets at home. Hope to see you in the woods!

ALL ARE WELCOME AT OUR ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING Late January to early February. Check our website for date and location (unconfirmed at press time). This is a great opportunity to get to know more about the Friends of the Forest and our work in service to the Anacortes Community Forest Lands. We will begin with a brief annual report and elections followed by a special presentation. Discussion and refreshments will follow. Hope to see you there!

SENIOR/ADULT HIKES Join Naturalist Denise Crowe for a gentle hike in good company with a casual exploration of local natural history knowledge.

DOUBLE WATERSHED TOUR • Friday, January 8th • 10am until noon • Start the New Year off right with a hike in the woods with friends! This is a gentle, one and a half mile route through varied forest and wetland habitats. Learn about the beaver that maintain these wetlands, and the winter waterfowl that we will be sure to see. Meet at the end of 32nd St. off of D Ave. HEART LAKE • Friday, February 12th • 10am until noon • Our Heart Lake hike is the perfect valentine to give to yourself, or to share with a friend. Together, we will look for the many early signs of spring. Meet at the Heart Lake parking lot.

PINE RIDGE LOOP • Friday, March 11th • 10am until noon • What treasures await in this lovely, hidden meadow?

Enjoy a hike to this unique and secret spot off of the beaten path. Meet at the base of Mount Erie on Ray Auld Drive.

ALL AGES HIKES WILL RETURN IN THE SPRING!

AND FOR THE VERY FIT… Again, this special fitness hike is for people with a known high level of physical condition!

WINTER FITNESS HIKE • Saturday February 20 • 10 am to 1 pm • Join Jean, Monica, Lin and Scott for a fitness hike

on Feb 20, 2016. This 8 mile fast-paced hike, for the very fit, will explore many of the trails in the Whistle Lake area of our forest lands. The hike will last until approximately 1 pm. After about 90 minutes of calorie burning, we will stop briefly for a chocolate tasting provided by the Friends of the Forest. Bring water, no dogs please. Meet at the Whistle Lake parking lot at 10 am.

FRIENDS OF THE FOREST

19

AT ANACORTES COMMUNITY THEATRE

Winter Class Schedule 2016 To register call 360-395-8107 For more information: www.acttheatre.com/classact

HOW TO PERFORM IN A MUSICAL Ages: 3rd – 6th grade Dates: Wednesdays January 20th – February 24th Time: 4 – 5:30 pm Performances: February 26th and 27th at 7 pm Cost: $75 Instructors: Jessica Guzik and Joy Moore Musical theatre is more than just singing and dancing, it’s about performing! You don’t have to be a good singer or dancer to enjoy this class- you just have to be ready for some fun! Students will get practical experience in singing and choreography through solo/duet and group work. The class will culminate in evening “showcase” performances.

FALLING TO PIECES THE MAGIC BOX Ages: Preschool Dates: Fridays January 29th – March 4th Time: 11 am – 12 pm OR 1 pm – 2 pm Cost: $50 Instructors: Kat Agnew and Valisa Keller Turn on your imagination and get ready to play with whatever is found in the Magic Box. Will it be superhero capes and a day of saving the world?

Could it be animal costumes and life on the farm? 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.

FAIRY TALE SALE! Ages: Kindergarten – 2nd grade Dates: Mondays January 11th- February 29th

OR Fridays January 29th – March 4th Time: 4 – 5:15 pm Performances: Last day of class 4:45 pm Cost: $75 Instructors: Jen Turpin and Rebecca Pursley What happens when some of the most famous fairy tale characters decide to shake up their stories by selling off the things they don’t want anymore? What will Goldilocks break? What will the Three Pigs make their houses from? Each student will create a unique personality for a fairy tale character to help tell this story. This play will be performed in 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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ANACORTES COMMUNITY THEATRE

Ages: 7th – 12th grade Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays January 26th – March 3rd Time: 3 pm – 4:30 pm Performance: March 4th at 7 pm and March 5th at 2 pm and 7 pm Cost: $125 Instructor: Tim Brown Life doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes friendships, families and life just fall to pieces. This one act drama looks at all of the different ways that things can fall apart in funny, serious and devastating ways. This class will give students a chance to develop characters and take on the challenge of roles that, like life, can be both funny and dramatic. 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.

Sheri Miklaski, Director (360) 293-1910

Worlds of Information and Imagination

SEEKING YOUR INPUT

ADULT PROGRAMS

Libraries around the country are evolving and changing to meet the diverse needs of their users, and the Anacortes Public Library is no exception. In 2016, our Library will embark on a new project to focus on meeting the everchanging needs of library patrons. All Anacortes citizens are stakeholders in our library, and your feedback and input are imperative in helping us to ensure that the library is meeting the unique needs of our community. In the coming year, as the library begins to develop a Strategic Plan, we will be seeking support from Primary Source, a Seattle based group with extensive experience in assisting libraries in their planning and project coordination. With their guidance, we will collaborate with our community to create a new Strategic Plan in 2016. Your input will be critical to our process, and that’s why we are asking all of you to contribute.

We look forward to your input and feedback as we shape the future of our library to evolve and meet the many changes in technologies and services that our citizens need, while still keeping our core mission of information, education, and imagination at the forefront. We’re excited to develop the vision of our community and build on the legacy and passion of our dedicated community and staff.

We invite and challenge you to participate in this exciting process.

SUNDAY JAZZ

STAR GAZING AT THE LIBRARY Anacortes Public Library will soon have you gazing at the stars! The Island County Astronomical Society has generously donated an Orion Starblast 4.5 inch telescope which will be available for checkout to all library card holders. Patrons can borrow the telescope for two weeks and explore the night sky.

Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 2pm to 3:30pm for our free jazz concerts.

ACOUSTIC MUSIC ON 3RD TUESDAYS AND SUNDAYS The baby grand piano is located on the 1st floor. We hope you will enjoy the soft background music (piano or other acoustic instrument) from 2:00-2:30 p.m. on the third Sunday and from 6:30-7:00 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. Experienced musicians who are interested in volunteering to play may inquire at the Circulation Desk.

BOOK CLUB Mondays at 7:00 p.m.

Jan. 25 – The Monuments Men by Robert Edsel Feb. 22 – All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr Mar. 28 – Spare Parts by Joshua Davis

MARITIME SPEAKER SERIES Saturdays at 4:00 p.m.

Jan. 16, “Crazy Things That Happen on the Water.” Capt.

Richard Rodriguez will present a maritime potpourri: understanding salvage law, misconceptions about Rules of the Road, and Confessions of a Delivery Captain.

Feb. 20, “Exploring the Undersea World with Small Submersibles.” Neil McCurdy, COO of OceanGate, the world leader in providing 5-man submersibles for exploration, will talk about the exciting tasks undertaken, with photos and video of the undersea world.

Mar. 19,

“Classic Motor Yachts of the Pacific Northwest.” The Pacific Northwest has a heritage of some of the finest boat designers and builders in the world. Capt. Rick Etsell will narrate a slide show of some of these timeless classic vessels.

ANACORTES PUBLIC LIBRARY

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MOVIES Fridays at 7:00 p.m.

Jan. 8, “Gigi” Jan. 15, “The Impossible” Jan. 22, “The Help” Jan. 29, “Just Like Heaven”

TECHWISE TUESDAYS 10:00 a.m.-12:00 noon Drop in with your mobile device or laptop for hands-on help with downloading library eBooks and audiobooks, learning computer basics, trying new software or internet applications, signing up for Microsoft IT Academy and more.

WEDNESDAY EVENING PROGRAMS Starting at 7:00 p.m.

JANUARY Jan. 6, “Asian Adventure: Tokyo & Kamakura.” Join Don & Joyce Paradine on their cruise, spending several days in Hong Kong, followed by ports in Vietnam & Thailand, 5 days in Singapore and ending up in Tokyo.

Jan. 13, “New Camera, Now What?” Photographer Tony Locke will discuss the basics of photography and how to get the best use of your camera.

Jan. 20, “The Eye of the Heron.” Local nature photographer Lance Ekhart continues his focus on our area’s Great Blue Herons, with an intimate look at the amazing activity within nearby heronries.

Jan. 27, “The Maiden of Deception Pass.” Join a representative of the Samish Indian Nation for a viewing of the 27-minute documentary “The Maiden of Deception Pass: Guardian of Her Samish People” which tells her story and how tribal history inspires generations of Samish people.

FEBRUARY Feb. 3, “Meet the Author: Learning to Eat along the Way.” Memoirist Margaret Bendet describes how she diverged from an unsatisfactory life, eventually spending time in an ashram. She says, anyone can write about their life.

Feb. 10, “Hong Kong to Shanghai.”

Join Don & Joyce Paradine for part 2 of their Asian Adventure, as they spend time in those two cities.

Feb. 17, “Serengeti Snapshots.”

Retired Library Director Cynthia Harrison will share her adventure on a 17-day safari, including the Masai Mora Game Reserve in Kenya, a Masai village, and the vistas of the Serengeti in Tanzania.

22 ANACORTES PUBLIC LIBRARY

Feb. 24, “Barley: From Grain to Glass.” WSU Graduate Research Assistant Brook Brouwer will cover the basics of developing new barley varieties for malting and brewing in Western Washington.

MARCH Mar. 2, “Mystery Writing is Murder.” Author Jeanne Matthews will discuss her writing process and her books, each one of which is set in a different country.

Mar. 9, Canine Officer Scott Ray will introduce K9 Officer Xander.

Mar. 16, “A Tierra Del Fuego Travel Adventure.” Author Reanne Hemingway Douglass will talk about her 300-mile bicycling expedition, through horrendous weather and appalling road conditions across one of the most remote and beautiful regions of the planet.

Mar. 23, “Poetry in Anacortes History.” Join local historian Bret Lunsford as he traces elements of the history of Anacortes through local poets.

Mar. 30, “Cracking the Codes, The System of Racial Inequality.” Join Chief Bonnie Bowers as she facilitates a discussion around recognizing and responding to personal, institutional, and systematic racism in our society. The discussion is centered on the documentary “Cracking the Codes, The System of Racial Inequity.” The film will be shown in segments during the discussion.

THE CHILDREN’S LIBRARY PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Preschool Storytime takes place in the Children’s Library on Mondays at 10:30am. This storytime is designed for 3 to 5 year-old children and includes stories, rhymes, learning activities, and more.

TIME FOR TOTS Time For Tots is held in the Library Community Meeting Room at 10:30am on Wednesdays and Fridays. This program is designed for children birth to 36 months of age and their caregivers. Time For Tots promotes early learning through the use of play, movement, music, rhymes, and stories, all delivered in an enriching atmosphere.

JUST FOR TEENS! Youth in grades 7-12 join Ria on Wednesdays from 2:45 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.

THE CHILDREN’S LIBRARY continued LEGOS IN THE LIBRARY! Join Ria Thursday afternoons 2:30 to 4:30pm 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.

TALES FOR TAILS This popular program is made possible by Dogs on Call and is held from 1 to 2pm on the second Saturday of the month in the Children’s Library. Children read to a dog in the comfort of the Children’s Library. Upcoming dates are January 9, February 13, and March 12.

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.

LIBRARY INFORMATION FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY Friends of the Library and its FriendShop bookstore raise additional funds to support the Anacortes Public Library. Meetings are held on the second Thursdays at 2:30pm in the library’s Community Meeting Room September through June. Membership is $10.

FriendShop bookstore hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 11am – 6:30pm, Wednesday 11am – 4pm, and Saturday 1pm – 4pm.

For additional information please stop by the FriendShop or check out their webpage.

LIBRARY FOUNDATION The Library Foundation offers many ways to support your library – general donations, bricks may be inscribed and installed in our walkway, or a wall tile may be engraved in our lobby. For a longerterm 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 non-resident 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 access to popular magazines and newspapers, free downloadable audio books and eBooks, and many other resources. The library catalog can be accessed from home and items can be renewed by logging in to your account.

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

PASSPORT BOOK & PASSPORT CARD APPLICATION

ACCEPTANCE HOURS Tuesday, noon - 6pm Wednesday, noon - 6pm Saturday by appointment Service is unavailable when the library is closed.

CLOSURES Christmas: December 24 and 25 New Year: Close at 5pm December 31 Closed January 1 Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Jan. 18 Presidents’ Day: February 15 Easter: March 27

2ND ANNUAL ANACORTES SEED EXCHANGE

January 31, 2016 1:00 – 3:00pm Anacortes Senior Center Winter is a great time to plan your garden and collect seeds from what you had grown. Please join us for our 2nd Annual Anacortes Seed exchange; there will be tables set up with Vegetable, flower and fruit seed packets. Many of the donated seeds from our local growers will be organic and non-GMO. We will also have a raffle, can you guess how many seeds are in the bottle?

Stop by and find out how many and what you can win. If you have any questions please contact Sylvia Cooper, sydcooper@gmail.com or you can call 360-420-7774.

CITIZEN’S ACADEMY 2016 Have you ever wondered what is involved in being part of the Anacortes Citizens Academy. You can find out this and much more at the 2016 Citizen Academy which will be held from February 29th through March 30th. This, free to the public, training is a great opportunity for you to participate and learn how to keep neighborhoods safer. Please contact CSO Wolfswinkel at karlw@ cityofanacortes.org or you can call 360-293-4684.

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Preserving and Interpreting the History of Fidalgo and Guemes Islands 1305 8th Street Anacortes Washington 98221 • Phone (360) 293-1915 • coa.museum@cityofanacortes.com Open Tuesday through Sunday (and closed Monday) • Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.

Museum Serves Diverse Constituency The Anacortes Museum will continue to serve its many, widely varied constituents, including citizens, visitors, local schools, the Senior College, the Anacortes Historic Preservation Board, City Council members, City departments, news media, prospective business owners, educators, researchers, State agencies, Tribes, the Port and other museums.

Anacortes Celebrates its 125th Anniversary in 2016 In honor of this milestone, the Anacortes Museum is developing an exhibit on the City’s history and accomplishments that will open in the spring shortly before the May 19 anniversary. The museum kicked off the celebration in 2015 by publishing a well-received, lavishly illustrated book: Wallie Funk’s “Pictures of the Past: Celebrating 125 Years of Anacortes History.” Events celebrating the anniversary and the book will continue throughout 2016.

Pictures of the Past “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.

Making Museum Resources Available Making museum resources available online in a secure and interactive form will continue in 2016. We have been working with Anacortes High School and its students to provide online access to yearbooks they have digitized, and we plan to continue working with student and adult videographers to create local history documentaries. These and other short history videos are being embedded on the museum website – with help from the City’s IT department. We are also working to continue digitizing our files, collections and newspapers to make them more easily accessible to the public.

Statehood Exhibit to Replace “All in the Same Boat” January will be your last opportunity to see the Anacortes Museum’s current Carnegie Gallery exhibit, “All in the Same Boat, Anacortes in the Great Depression.” This uplifting exhibit portrays the amazing community spirit that prevailed during this challenging time. Everyone was suffering, so people looked out for one another, held fundraisers, organized workers’ co-ops, and participated in New Deal programs. Despite the tough times, there was time for fun -- community dances and festivals -- and businesses were creative in their attempts to attract attention and bring business into the area.

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Poetry and Paint Another new outreach effort involves working with community members to host a maritime poetry event in the fall of 2016, and the museum is working with volunteers who hope to get the Tommy Thompson Train running again.

The 1910 Carnegie Library building is due for new paint, and the museum is researching the cost of repairs and weatherization of the building’s windows as a starting point to the project.

1889; Blazes, Rails and the Year of Washington Statehood The Depression-era exhibit will be replaced by a traveling exhibit from the Washington State Secretary of State’s office, “1889; Blazes, Rails and the Year of Washington Statehood.” A centerpiece of this exhibit will be an original 42-star U.S. flag. This exhibit runs until the end of April, and in May a new exhibit will open celebrating the 125th anniversary of Anacortes’ incorporation.

Miniature Sewing Machines Anacortes Presents, in the Carnegie Gallery, currently is showing an exhibit of toy and miniature sewing machines collected and shared by Jan Sabin, Mr. Sew-Dandy.

Quilters and others will enjoy seeing tiny Pfaff, Bernina and Singer machines, plus other less known brands like Daito Denko, Romance, and Rose Marie.

Festive Holiday Gathering and Annual Meeting The meeting starts at 6 p.m. reception follows at 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec.10 Anacortes Museum, 1305 Eighth Street Please join us for light refreshments and good cheer at our annual holiday reception, hosted by the Anacortes Museum Foundation. While you are here, you can take one last look at “All in the Same Boat: Anacortes in the Great Depression,” which closes at the end of January.

The celebration is preceded by the Anacortes Museum Foundation’s annual meeting and election at 6 p.m. downstairs. Members will vote on Foundation Board officers. The following have agreed to stand for election: Tom Thompson, President; Jeff Weldon, Vice-President; Barbara Larson, Recording Secretary; and Jim Taylor, Treasurer. Nominations will also be accepted from the floor.

360.293.1915 COA.MUSEUM@CITYOFANACORTES.ORG

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Ballet – Modern – Jazz – Tap – Musical Theater Dance Swing – Hip Hop – Classes for Adults Parent/Toddler Movement – Preschool Dance Dance for Parkinson’s – Autism Movement Therapy

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FIDALGO DANCE

Anacortes Senior College Winter Term begins on Tuesday, Jan. 12, and continues through Thursday, Feg. 18.

Classes meet at Anacortes Middle School, 2200 M Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98221.

We encourage you to look for detailed course information on our website: www.seniorcollege.org For further information, call 360-503-1255, email info@seniorcollege.org

WINTER CLASS SCHEDULE JANUARY 12 TO FEBRUARY 18, 2016 Classes meet 3:30 p.m. -5:30 p.m. Classes run 6 weeks in length unless otherwise noted.

A 6-week class is $30. A 3-week class is $20.

TUESDAY AFTERNOONS Geologic Events: “In the Cross-hairs of Earth.� Jim Strong leads exploration of events that shaped Washington, including formation of mountain ranges, glaciers and more.

Mental Health: Common Facts and Myths. As a psychiatrist, Dr. Alan Cook delves into common mental conditions and psychiatric conditions, and discusses various approaches to treatment.

Alaskan Fisheries (3 weeks: 1/12, 19 and 26). Mark Lundsten presents the history of fishing, along with the politics and conservation methods maintaining the successful fishery.

Getting Your Stuff in Order (3 weeks: 1/12, 19 and 26). Lexie Lamborn guides students through organizing documents, storing stuff, sharing information with family and trusted friends.

Tropical Adventures: From Belize to the Galapagos (3 weeks: 2/2, 9 and 16). Explore with Bob Weathers exploring the tropics, emphasizing coral reefs and other aspects of marine biology.

THURSDAY AFTERNOONS Understanding Religion. Join Jim Barrett in sifting through impacts of major religions on daily life, such as foreign policy, government decisions, social interactions and wars in this nondenominational course.

Understanding the Universe, Part II. Continue with Tom Churchill discovering the Cosmos, including Death Stars, galaxies, Clusters and the Cosmic Web, the challenges of space travel and more.

Metalworking. Master blacksmith Paul Thorne reveals the importance of iron in the evolution of humanity, the tools and skills still used today in forging industrial, architectural and artistic objects.

Basic Norwegian for Travelers (3 weeks: 1/14, 21, 28). Susan Easthouse returns to teach her popular course on key Norwegian words and phrases, along with opportunity for discussing travel in Norway.

Self-Publishing (3 weeks: 2/4, 11 and 18). Tony and Karla Locke have led writers through the continually changing technological maze of selfpublishing and will share their expertise with authors.

ANACORTES SENIOR COLLEGE 27

PROTECTING SKAGIT MARINE RESOURCES Education * Citizen Science * Stewardship Friends is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. For more information visit www.skagitbeaches.org and sign up for our newsletter. Check the calendar page for event details. Like us on FACEBOOK. Lectures are free and open to all ages. Come early to get a good seat!

Northwest Educational Service District 189 Building, 1601 R Ave, Anacortes

2016 LECTURE SERIES January 15 at 7p.m.

Climate Change Science in Haiku Gregory Johnson, Ph. D. School of Oceanography University of Washington

April 8 at 7p.m.

Restoration of the Elwha River and its Estuary Ian Miller, Ph. D. Coastal Hazards Specialist Peninsula College, Port Angeles, WA

In 2014 the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a 2000 page report, a daunting read even for experts. Dr. Johnson has distilled the entire report into 19 illustrated haiku.

His work of art provides powerful talking points and a visual guide to understanding this important document.

Two dams have recently been removed from the Elwha River and it again flows free. Dr. Miller and other scientists are monitoring the unrestricted river and the resultant ecological changes within the river basin and its estuary.

February 12 at 7p.m.

Recent NE Pacific Warming or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Blob

Nick Bond, Ph. D. Washington State Climatologist and Senior Research Scientist, University of WA A huge area of abnormally warm water has formed along the Pacific coast. Coined “The Blob� by Dr. Bond, this phenomenon may be disrupting marine food webs and is associated with unusual weather across the U.S.

March 18 at 7p.m.

Sea Otters: A Natural History Jane Watson, Ph. D. Department of Biology Vancouver Island University Extirpated from Vancouver Island by 1911, sea otters were reintroduced and their populations have grown. Dr. Watson will share the knowledge she has gained in her 25 years of studying these fascinating animals.

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FRIENDS OF SKAGIT BEACHES

5TH ANNUAL FIDALGO SHORELINE ACADEMY Saturday May 14, 2016 Held from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at Fidalgo Bay Resort in Anacortes, this one-day university for everyone begins with an engaging keynote address followed by plenary sessions of your choosing on our Salish Sea marine environment and culture. Receive full program details and registration information in March by signing up for our newsletter at the Friends website www. skagitbeaches.org. Teachers - continuing education clock hours are available.

HIGHLIGHTS PROPOSED BUDGET •

The Library budget has a 50% increase in the reading material supply line over the prior year’s budget.

This is the first significant increase in library materials since the 2008 budget.

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The Parks department has $435,000 budgeted for a new Spray pad and restroom at Storvik park.

..

•

There is $1.1 million budgeted in the street maintenance fund to continue the road pavement overlay program instituted by city council in 2014. Additionally there will be over $500,000 in carryover from the current year, dedicating approximately $1.6M towards overlays in 2016.

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One additional firefighter will be hired in 2016, which will allow the current 12 hours shifts to be eliminated and all firefighting shifts will be scheduled for 24 hours.

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There is $200,000 budgeted for trip hazard and sidewalk repair.

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The Washington Park upper restrooms have been budgeted for remodel / upgrade / replacement which ever is most cost effective.

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Improvements to and planning for making South Commercial more pedestrian friendly as well as a more inviting public space.

• Capital funding for maintenance of major public

infrastructure including water, sewer and storm drainage systems.

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Funding for carefully pursuing a community wide fiber optic network.

Changes to Anacortes Lodging Tax The City’s Lodging Tax Advisory Committee has made changes to the City’s lodging tax allocations for 2016.

Starting, in January, the Anacortes Visitors Information Center, which is fully funded by the City and operated by the Chamber of Commerce, will accept literature for display from any touristoriented Fidalgo Islandbased business, not just from Chambers members.

For more information, contact the Chamber or the City of Anacortes Director of Planning, Community, and Economic Development Don Measamer 360-293-1901 or don@cityofanacortes.org.

More information about the City’s lodging tax program is available at www.cityofanacortes. org/LodgeTax.php#.

VmIqgeMrIkg. CITY OF ANACORTES 29

Streaming Video of City Council Meetings Regular City Council meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of each month. City Council study sessions are held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. All meetings begin at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall.

The City provides streaming audio Video of City Council and Planning Commission meetings. Streaming audio/ video requires a broadband internet connection. We support the following: Internet Explorer, Firefox, Google Chrome, Opera, Apple Safari.

Go to: http://www.cityofanacortes.org/ watch_meetings.php#.VmS_QuMrJmN View the schedule for upcoming meetings including agendas and packet materials. Meetings are arranged by date, with the most recent at the top of the list. Click Video to listen to a live meeting or check the archive for archived videos. For Streaming Video assistance, contact the City Clerk at 360-299-1960 or cityclerk@cityofanacortes.org.

We want to hear from you . . .

Do you have a recreational or community activity that you would like to have listed in this publication? Are you looking for new members? It might be a new music group, softball team, disc golf, bridge, sailing enthusiasts, etc.? If you provide your information to us, we will list it at no cost. Our goal is to connect people together in "Our Town".

For more information, please contact Gary Robinson at gary@cityofanacortes.org or use the regular mail at P.O. Box 547, Anacortes, WAÂ 98221 or call 360-293-1918 30

CITY OF ANACORTES

Container Rentals

Include New 10 & 30 Yard Sizes Anacortes Harmonaires Anacortes Harmonaires performs women’s barbershop in and around Anacortes. If you would like us to sing for your event or if you are interested in singing with us, call: Virgene 293-0950 or Kristi 293-8476.

Rehearsals are Thursdays 7-9 p.m. at a local church.

Singers of all levels are welcome to rehearsals.

www.SmokingIsExpensive.com Our new website www.smokingisexpensive.com reveals various products and services smokers are “smoking away” by utilizing our robust “do the math™” calculator.

The results are shocking! The website also provides links to resources from the FDA and the CDC helpful in a smoker’s quest to quit and get back to physical and financial health.

The City of Anacortes can now offer you a dumpster or drop box to fit just about any project. Our container sizes range from 1 ½ yard up to 30 yards. A container can be delivered to your project and emptied on an “on-call” basis, Monday through Friday.

For more information please call our Solid Waste department at 360-293-1921 to check availability, construction/demolition pricing, dimensions and accepted materials. (Prepayment & signed contract are required.)

Special Olympics WA Dash and Splash Polar Plunge Anacortes A dual event featuring a 5K Fun Run/Walk and Polar Plunge on February 27th at Seafarers Park in Anacortes Washington. Check in and Registration will open at 0900hrs for both events. Online registration and other information available at “http://anacortesplunge2016. kintera.org/” http://anacortesplunge2016.kintera.org/

Anacortes Home & Boat Tour Enjoy a delightful afternoon, touring unique homes and boats in historic Anacortes and Cap Sante Boat Haven. All proceeds benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital Uncompensated Care program. Sat, April 16th from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Croatian Cultural Center, 805 5th Street, Anacortes. Advance on-line tickets: www. brownpapertickets.com/event/40405 or 360/299-0641.

Sound Yoga and Stand Up Paddle Stand Up Paddle Board Instuction, Tours and Yoga in Anacortes, WA. SUP is a great way for the whole family to enjoy the beautiful waters of Anacortes and surrounding areas. Instructors are life guard, CPR, and PSUPA certified. For more information: www.soundandsup.com or 360-298-0293.

A 30 yard drop box goes out for delivery.

When you are ready to order, you may call our Finance Department at 293-1900 for assistance with the contract and prepayment.

CITY OF ANACORTES

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LET’S MAKE HISTORY

JUST DO ONE THING

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

Businesses, residents, schools and the City of Anacortes are all working to save energy and compete for the Georgetown University Energy Prize of $5 million.

Recently the City of Anacortes changed all of the HPS streetlights to LED which will result in over $50,000 in energy savings each year. This community has a commitment to saving energy and we can’t wait to make history!

Stop by Bayshore Office Products to pick up your energy saving card! Fill it out and bring it back to have a dot placed on our map of participants. In addition, you can visit AceChallenge.org to join your friends and start a simple energy saving project, gain valuable tips or learn more information about Anacortes Community Energy. Challenge yourself to Just Do One Thing! That’s all it takes to save energy, save money, and participate in the Anacortes Community Energy Challenge.

If you don’t already know Jensen Lovelett, you should. He’s here to help you and your neighbors achieve your energy goals. You’ll find him presenting at local events, service clubs, churches and organizations. He’ll be takin’ it to the streets and sharing information about how you can help Anacortes win $5 million. He’s been a part of the Anacortes community for over 13 years with his wife Liz and 3 lovely daughters. Contact him to speak at your next event or just give him a hard time: Jensen@SustainableConnections.org or (360) 420-6886.

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CITY OF ANACORTES

City Council Members Brad Adams

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

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

1

Find out, in a friendly way, where your teen is and who they’re with.

2

Be open to negotiating with your teen about limits, family rules and consequences.

3

Start having talks about alcohol and other drugs early – before your kids reach adolescence-then keep talking and listening. Begin with the easier discussions about high caffeine energy drinks and prescription drugs, and build from there. Use movies, news stories and advertisements as the basis to discuss how alcohol and other drugs are shown in the media.

4

Discuss a broad range of issues not limited to substance use with your teen and invite their opinions, even if they are different from your own.

5

As they go through the teenage years, let your kids know what you think the safest choices about alcohol and other drugs are and what you expect of them.

6

Let teens know that their safety comes first, especially when you tackle the more difficult issues around drinking and marijuana. Let them know they can depend on you to help them if they feel concerned about their own or a friend’s safety.

7

Set an example by being responsible about your own use of alcohol and other drugs. If you choose to drink, discuss how you manage your own drinking.

8

Recognize that experimentation and mistakes happen. By understanding that a teen’s brain – especially the areas in charge of impulse control – is still developing, you’ll be able to better understand why your teen may place themselves in risky situations. Help your teen to reflect on a mistake to make it into a learning opportunity, but be sure to wait until you’re both calm and ready to discuss a problem rationally.

9

Stay in the know. You don’t have to be an expert, but being informed about current evidence related to alcohol & other drugs will give you the information you need to help your teen make better choices.

10

Consider the big picture. Many youth today experience anxiety, stress and depression. Changes in mood, behaviour and attitude could be an indication of a problem with alcohol or other drugs, a mental health problem or both. If you feel your teen is experiencing problems, seek help from a professional.

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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2016 Solid Waste Holiday Schedule

Tips For Safe Winter Driving A

fter a mild Winter 2014, winter sports enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest hope to have their fill of deep powder on the slopes this season. Plenty of powder is great news for skiers, not so good news for those of us who are driving in unpredictable conditions. Even if El Niño serves us up with a mild winter, wet conditions and cooler temperatures can complicate travel plans. Following are a few tips to consider when loading up the family car for wintertime travel.

Make sure your battery and charging system are performing well. Cold weather can take a toll on your vehicle’s charging system. To put things in perspective, the term “cold crank amps” is used to establish how much energy is available from your battery to start a cold engine. The colder the temps outside, the harder the battery will have to work to move sluggish oil in the engine and the less effective the transfer of energy to start the car. Car batteries generally last 5-6 years and are an inexpensive way to provide piece of mind that the engine will rev to life when you turn the ignition.

Check your tires. Many modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features such as anti-lock brake systems, traction control, or even fourwheel or all-wheel drive. All of these systems can provide extra control in dry conditions, however, slippery road conditions can even the playing field in terms of a vehicle’s stopping power.

One of the best ways to prepare for

slippery conditions is to make sure that your tires have proper tread and inflation for winter driving conditions.

If you are driving through the passes, pay close attention to traction advisories on reader boards that may require chains or other equipment to improve safety in dangerous driving conditions.

Drive appropriate speeds based on road conditions. Many of us have witnessed wannabe road warriors driving 10 mph over the speed limit in blinding snow on icy roads over a mountain pass (if not, maybe this is you). This type of driver is taking on unnecessary risk with a slim chance for reward. In fact, even if disaster does not strike, the driver could face a Driving Too Fast for Conditions or related infraction which will take up any time that would have been gained by driving faster.

Prevention and preparation. Consider gearing up with a winter driving kit to include food and water, a small shovel, a candle, jumper cables, flares, tire chains, warm clothing, a first aid kit, and flashlights. Finally, educate yourself with weather and road reports that can prepare you for what’s ahead.

If feasible, delay travel plans until roadways have been cleared by work crews in the event of a storm.

New Year’s Day

Friday, January 1

Collect Friday and Monday on Monday, January 4, 2016

Martin Luther King Day Monday, January 18

Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Presidents Day

Monday, February 15

Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Memorial Day

Monday, May 30

Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Independence Day

Observed Monday, July 4 Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Labor Day

Monday, September 5

Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Veterans Day

Friday, November 11

Collect Friday and Monday on Monday, November 14, 2016

Thanksgiving

Thursday, November 24

Collect Wednesday and Thursday on Wednesday, November 23, 2016 **If your collection day is Thursday be sure to put your garbage out a day EARLY!**

Friday, November 25

Collect Friday and Monday on Monday, November 28, 2016

Christmas Day

Monday, December 26

Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Anacortes Police Department 1218 24th St Anacortes WA (360) 293-4684

http://www.cityofanacortes.org/polic.php CITY OF ANACORTES

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C I T Y

O F

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

ECRWSS Resident

PRE-SORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE

PA I D

Anacortes, WA PERMIT NO. 22