A-Town Spring 2021

SPRING | 2021

What’s Inside

Chief Small reflects on years of service to the City of Anacortes Registration for Parks and Recreation Programs is now open!

Access Anacortes Fiber’s new expansion areas Volunteering with heart in Anacortes SPRING 2021

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A letter from Mayor Gere

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Resilient Anacortes

At the City, the safety and wellbeing of every resident has been the focus of every action since the pandemic began. We continue to provide public safety services, continuously maintain and improve our public infrastructure, and provide the highest level of customer service in every interaction.

“We continue to work to serve you during these extraordinary times. We were innovative and nimbly adapted to support this community.”

The City Council, Directors and I closely managed the budget and maintained a solid financial position. We made reductions in spending to weather the economic uncertainty.

Dear Anacortes Citizens, This has been a year of responding to a global pandemic that changed our way of daily life. We faced a public health crisis head on. Our community and every citizen faced challenges that tested our resolve in more ways than one. We lived with tragic losses, isolation from our families, friends, work, school, business, and our beloved community events. We were limited by State mandates, to protect our health – but this came with some dire consequences to the economic viability of our small businesses and restaurants. At the City we closed our Anacortes Senior Activities Center (ASAC), City Hall, and limited access to our Museum and Library. These were hard but necessary decisions needed to help keep our community safe and healthy.

Many of our local families faced housing and food insecurity and struggled with unemployment and the cost of utilities.

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Some families transitioned to a remote work setting and became the support systems of their children and facilitated their online education. We all learned how to use Zoom and measure six feet with just a glance.

Anacortes has always been a resilient, creative, and generous community and we responded to each challenge as it arose.

I’m so proud of this City and how it has faced this pandemic as a whole. We received federal, state and local funds and we had incredible private citizens donate to help those in need. Our essential workers gave new meaning to the word “essential” and will always be admired for their bravery in the face of the unknown. We also provided personal protection equipment for our Fire, Medic, Police, and front-line staff while they fought this virus daily. We all adapted to life with masks and hand sanitizer being the objects we grabbed along with our car keys and wallet.

We converted to a virtual platform for our Planning Commission and City Council meetings and have been able to provide access for all our citizens in this important public process.

Our library provided online programs including story times and curbside services to all our residents, and now we have opened for in-person access by appointment.

Our Museum continued to provide a rich resource with their online database, and they have focused on the newly acquired Bill Mitchell Murals and exhibits at the Maritime Center and Carnegie Gallery.

The Planning, Community and Economic Development Department was able to provide funding to 34 small businesses with grants and donations, as well as provided families with rental assistance.

The Parks Department partnered with the Anacortes School District to provide recreation programs to our youth and they have continued to add programs safely. Youth sports is a top priority.

They also have kept our parks, trails, and Forest Lands open, and maintained to afford all of us an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. A brand new Depot Restroom was also recently installed.

The ASAC continues to provide Meals on Wheels and virtual programs. We have plans to reopen the center this summer when it is safe to do so.

Citizens adapted to paying their utility bills and applying for and paying for permitting costs online.

City Staff converted to a remote work setting where able and our front-line workers stayed on the job and provided uninterrupted services to all citizens.

Our Municipal Court provided a virtual court and implemented a new Community Court to support nonviolent offenders.

Our Anacortes Police Department responded to 8,300 calls and the Anacortes Fire Department responded to 754 calls, and our Emergency Medical Services responded to 4,791 calls for service.

We are building out our Access Anacortes Fiber system. The need for this essential service became more evident as we converted to online work, school, telemedicine, engaged in more eCommerce, and accessed information and entertainment online.

The Public Works Department built a new Raw Water pipeling to provide redundancy. We’re continuing work on road overlays, and we built a new roundabout at HWY 20 and Glasgow Way. Design work and funding has also been obtained to address M Avenue and 32nd Street safety concerns. We are also in the process of designing a new Outfall for our Wastewater Treatment Plant.

In 2020, there were lopsided economic outcomes, while many industries suffered, other sectors of our economy thrived such as our online retail sales, boat and car sales, and construction. This was unexpected and provided the City with the ability to maintain all our reserves, ending the 2020 year with a healthy financial bottom line.

We strengthened connections with other governmental agencies, hospitals, schools, the Port of Anacortes, Samish Indian Nation, Skagit County Public Health, other Cities in Skagit County and the County Commissioners. We are grateful for our many partners. We coordinated and shared resources and worked together for the good of all Skagit County Residents. Today as I write this, 37% of Skagit County has been vaccinated. This has been an incredible joint effort. Hope and recovery are in our sights.

highest value. Neighbors, businesses, and community members have stepped up and taken care of each other when it was most challenging for us all. I am so proud of Anacortes, and to be of service to each of you.

Truly yours,

Mayor Laurie Gere.

Scan the QR Code to watch the State of the City video

As we look ahead, we are hopeful that we will have community events again soon, the City has ordered fireworks for the 4th of July. We all yearn for the day when we can gather safely together again.

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We want to see you on the water this summer!

SUMMER 2021

Your Community, Your Waterfront

Advanced/Racing Youth Sailing

Come enjoy your Anacortes waterfront! We offer multiple types of boat rentals and classes to get you on Monday-Thursday: 2pm-6pm @ Seafarers Memorial Park.

Starts on Monday dates below. the water. Whether you like to sail, paddleboard, or row, we've got you covered! Please visit our website for 6/28, 7/6, 7/19, 8/09 more information and to sign up.

Open Sail Seafarers Memorial Park Tuesday and Friday 4pm-8pm Saturday 12pm-4pm $20 per hour for Paddleboard and Sailboats Free for AWA Members **$5 Tuesday Rentals!**

Advanced Adult Sailing Monday-Thursday: 4pm-8pm @ Seafarers Memorial Park.

Starts on Monday dates below.

7/26, 8/16

Private Sailing Classes Individual sailing lesson or private group of 4 people

Rowing Sliding seat program coming soon. Stay tuned! **Based on interest and availability, we will add more classes and offerings as needed. Please continue to check our website for updates.**

VISIT ANACORTESWATERFRONT.ORG Director@anacorteswaterfront.org 360-230-8112

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In this Issue

7 . A Look Inside the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee

22 . Anacortes Public Library reopens their doors

8 City of Anacortes Financial

26 . Reopening the

12 . Chief Small Reflects Back on

28 . See Access Anacortes

Update

Years of Service to the City of Anacortes

14 . Registration for Parks and Recreation is now open!

Anacortes Museum Fiber’s new expansion areas

34 . Volunteering with heart in Anacortes

Contributors Editor:

Alexandra Holden, Executive Assistant to the Mayor

Photography:

Corin Norohna, Museum Aide

A Special Thanks:

Thank you to the City of Anacortes staff whose contributions make this magazine possible.

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City Council

Let’s build resilience.

Let’s build without fossil fuels.

Let’s rebuild our world.

RYAN WALTERS - WARD 1

(360) 610-7770 ryanw@cityofanacortes.org

CHRISTINE CLELAND-MCGRATH - WARD 2

(360) 708-0267 christinec@cityofanacortes.org

What we have been building for 15 years: JEREMY CARTER - WARD 3

(425) 773-5935 jeremyc@cityofanacortes.org

● Community gardens and ● Community solar to Anacortes ● Skill-share classes ● Fix-It Days

MATT MILLER - POSITION 4

(360) 588-9070 mattm@cityofanacortes.org

● ACFL monitoring studies ● Presentations by experts ● Scholarships to AHS students ● The Fidalgo Grows blog

BRUCE MCDOUGALL - POSITION 5 (303) 551-5554 brucem@cityofanacortes.org

● Pathfinder climate newsletter ● Food produce stands in town ● Living Well, Living Green book ● Vision 2030, and more

CAROLYN MOULTON - POSITION 6

(360) 472-0335 carolynm@cityofanacortes.org

ANTHONY YOUNG - POSITION 7

(360) 873-8407 anthony@cityofanacortes.org

Let’s build a future our children will thank us for.

Join with us! www.TransitionFidalgo.org info@TransitionFidalgo.org

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Tourism, L odging, Taxes & Guests

A LOOK INSIDE THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE By: Matt Miller, Anacortes City Council, At Large, Position 4, LTAC Chair

WE WILL HAVE EVENTS AGAIN IN ANACORTES!

THE “GOODS” AND “OTHERS” OF TOURISM

There will be a time soon when we will have amazing normal events such as the Arts Festival, Rock the Dock, Summer Concert Series, and even the 4th of July fireworks! It will be a grand celebration as we reacquaint with friends, neighbors, and visitors to our great city. With the pandemic in our rear view mirror hopefully soon, acknowledging its many serious impacts, including canceling most of our traditional local events, have you ever wondered why we have such great events?

We all know there are pros and cons when it comes to tourism. The cons of the “tourist season” are primarily crowded amenities and traffic. However, I believe the pros far outweigh the cons in the form of friendly human connections, art, culture, and a vibrant community. As the “hibernated” events emerge and bring out community together, LTAC is focused on how to rebuild festivals, concerts, markets, and events that combine to make our community such a unique place to visit – and an even better place to stay!

One small part of that equation, in addition to all those talented organizations and event planners, is the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC). This group of dedicated volunteers, that I am fortunate to work with, takes time out of their very busy schedules running hotels or other tourism related businesses to best allocate “Lodging Tax” dollars to enhance the Anacortes experience for visitors and residents.

Events such as those listed above use lodging tax dollars to entice visitors to stay a bit longer and elevates the overall vitality of our City – and as residents we get to enjoy the vibe too! All this works in close coordination with the City’s primary marketing expertise partner, the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce.

THE FINE PRINT The City collects a few different taxes, but you may not have heard of the “Lodging Tax.” This is a 4% tax guests pay when lodging within the City while visiting our island paradise. The purpose of this tax, as set by State law, is tourism marketing; marketing of events and festivals designed to attract tourists; supporting operational and capital expenditures of tourism related facilities that are municipal or public, or owned and operated by a non-profit organization.

Side note: The LTAC stepped up as the primary funding source for the downtown “Parklets,” assisting the many businesses affected by pandemic capacity restriction. When the restrictions are lifted, hopefully this additional flexible space of the Parklet will help make up for lost revenue while adding some visual interest.

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City of

Anacortes Financial Update

FISCAL YEAR 2021 STARTED THE WAY 2020 ENDED, with sales tax increasing back towards pre COVID-19 levels, with online shopping platforms, car and boat sales, and construction as the top revenue producers. Through March 2021, sales tax collections are exceeding the same period 2020 (which was pre COVID-19) by $100,580, or 10.2%.

With the COVID-19 induced recession of 2020, sales tax revenues bottomed out in mid-year, with June 2020 receipts nearly 31% below budgeted expectations. Fortunately, in early 2020 the pre COVID-19 economy generated healthy revenues that exceeded budgeted expectations.

Economic recovery happened rapidly in the fall of 2020, which benefited the City’s overall financial picture, and ended the year just -3.3%, or $163,285, below budgeted expectations.

Utility Tax is another of the City’s main unrestricted revenue streams, and is authorized in state law, RCW 35A.82.020. Utility tax is charged on both private utilities, such as electricity, natural gas, cable TV and phone service; and on public utilities such as water, sewer, and solid waste services.

Over the past few years, decreasing tax collection has been noted on private utility tax, most notably linked to phone and cable TV revenues dropping, and this decreasing trend is anticipated in the revenue budget.

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Written by: Director Steve Hoglund

However, in 2020 there was a dramatic decrease in water and sewer consumption due to the COVID-19 crisis. Places of business were closed to the public, and transportation needs decreased, thereby causing a dramatic decrease in industry water consumption from the refineries and commercial water consumption.

This decrease was also seen in the consumption of our wholesale customers. The only utility segments that grew year over year from 2019 to 2020 was multifamily and residential customers.

Sewer consumption is calculated off of water consumption and so the

City saw a corresponding decrease in Sewer revenues. In 2020, Solid Waste consumption decreased as well; the tonnage processed in 2020 fell from 2019 by 6%, or 605 tons. Incredibly, at year end 2020, the actual collections of those seven tax revenue streams were within just a few dollars of the total budget expectations.

The third major tax revenue stream the City has is Property tax. This revenue stream is traditionally nearly 100% collected, and that continued to be the case in 2020. In addition to these largest tax revenue streams, the City closely monitors four other major tax revenues.

*Real Estate Excise Tax is restricted for Public Works projects, and Lodging Tax is restricted for tourism marketing.

In 2020, the City was a recipient of several grants related to the COVID-19 crisis. The largest was from the Federal CARES Act, which provided $792,450 that the City used towards COVID-19 related costs.

The largest component of cost charged against that grant was for staff time, including regular time and overtime spent on COVID-19 related tasks; and emergency leave used for absences either directly or indirectly related to COVID-19. Examples of the ways in which COVID-19 grant funding was used at the city is: supporting first responders, communication of mandates and directives, timekeeping for grant tracking, managing the application and distribution of small business grants; distributing and implementing air and surface cleaning equipment, and Personal Protective Equipment to all City facilities, and assuring staggered and socially distanced work spaces for essential service employees.

Additionally, the City received over $110,000 in grant funds from Health and Human Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to aid in the COVID-19 related costs incurred by the Emergency Management Services department. A Community Development Block Grant of more than $184,000 was given directly to small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis through our Small Business Stabilization Grant program. These funds were also used to give indirect assistance in the form of PPE and other COVID-19 related supplies. In total, the City received $1,099,3782 in grant funds that were used to support the community through this public health and economic crisis.

This graph depicts the difference in expected sales tax revenue versus what the City actually received in a given year.

In the year 2020 sales receipts were 3.3% below budgeted expectations.

MORE COVID-19 FINANCIAL RELIEF IS ON THE WAY! On March 18, 2021 the President signed into law the American Rescue Act signed into law the American Rescue Act, which allocated additional funds to the City to help our recovery efforts associated with the COVID-19 public health crisis. The final amount and details of the use of the grant have not been fully released. The Finance department is working closely with the Mayor and the City Council to develop a spending plan for the grant, which will be refined once final details are released.

In 2021, the economy continues to operate at levels that indicate we are in the recovery phase of this COVID-19 crisis. Sales tax and other state shared revenues remain strong, while some are continuing to struggle such as the hospitality sector, and utility consumption. As we continue to show our resiliency and commit to our recovery efforts, it is anticipated those revenue streams will return to normal.

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SOLID WASTE

Stormwater/Solid Waste

2021 Holiday Schedule

There is NO garbage collection on the following holidays: Memorial Day Monday, May 31, 2021 Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, June 1, 2021

Independence Day Monday, July 5, 2021 Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Labor Day Monday, September 6, 2021

Thanksgiving Thursday, November 25, 2021

Collect Wednesday and Thursday on WEDNESDAY, November 24, 2021 **If your collection day is Thursday be sure to put your garbage out a day EARLY!**

Day After Thanksgiving Friday, November 26, 2021

Collect Monday and Tuesday on Tuesday, September 7, 2021

Collect Friday and Monday on Monday, November 29, 2021

Veterans Day Thursday, November 11, 2021

Christmas Friday, December 24, 2021

Collect Thursday and Friday on Friday, November 12, 2021

Collect Friday and Monday on Monday, December 27, 2021

Garbage collection shifts one day. | Extra garbage must be placed in city pre-paid bags.

Waste Management will follow our schedule inside city limits.

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How can you help the City protect the

Salish Sea?

Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Program

The City’s Stormwater Division is tasked with running the Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) Program. Stormwater drains are meant for rainwater only. When substances like oil, paint, and grease get dumped into our storm drains, they often end up flowing straight into the Salish Sea. These illicit discharges harm life in our streams and the Salish Sea. Illicit discharges include: spills, uncontrolled muddy construction runoff, power washing with soapy water, improper disposal of oil, pesticides, dirt, fertilizer, and dumping of any kind into the street or into the storm drain.

The City tries to combat water quality issues by monitoring the storm system, and maintaining a regular street sweeping schedule to keep trash and debris out of the storm drains. We work with local businesses on pollution prevention practices and spill response planning. The City maintains a spill hotline as well as an online reporting option to allow the public to notify us of any concerns with the storm system (see ad on page 31).

Please report the following items immediately: • Oily sheen or colored liquids • Chemical or sewage smell

• Foam • Garbage accumulation

When a spill occurs, City crews respond and work to clean up the spill before it reaches our waterways.

Some of our methods include using absorbent materials, street sweeping, and using a vactor truck to clean out the storm lines.

You can find more information about the IDDE program by scanning the QR Code or by visiting www.anacorteswa.gov/1076/IDDE.

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I recently announced my decision to retire from the Anacortes Police Department (APD) after serving the community for over 27 ½ years, including the past 4+ years as the Chief of Police. As I reflected on a very eventful past year, I started thinking about all the changes that have occurred since I began my career with the APD in 1993. Law enforcement has always been in a constant state of evolution as we strive to continuously improve.

When I first started, about half of the Police Department smoked there always seemed to be a cloud of smoke around the old police station.

Today we have no smokers and new employees sign a document agreeing not to use tobacco products while at work. In the old station we had only one locker room. Thankfully our current building has separate locker rooms and much more privacy. Our department also reached a peak of having four female officers a few years back, including now retired Chief Bonnie Bowers. Our department’s diversity has grown over the past several years and we truly value all of our APD family.

In 1994, my first mobile telephone for work was a large “bag phone” that weighed seven pounds. I bought the phone myself and paid the monthly bill as there was no City cell phone program at that time. Now we all have smart phones that fit in our pockets. My first patrol car was a 1989 Ford LTD with maroon bench seats. It was lovingly called “the boat.”

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Another technology change has been the way we fingerprint people.

We would squirt fingerprint ink from a tube onto a glass platen and then spread it with a roller. We then rolled peoples fingers in the ink and then onto paper cards. It often took two or three attempts to get acceptable print quality. We recently purchased an electronic fingerprinting machine that uses light to create the print. It’s fast, clean, and contactless.

Speaking of ink, I spent many hours in my early years at APD handwriting reports with pen and paper. It was a slow process and a chronological challenge as it was very messy. Our Records staff would then type my handwritten reports as we had very few typewriters. Our Records room had numerous file cabinets filled with handwritten or typed case files. We now work in a world of computer keyboards, spellcheck, electronic files, and strive to be “paperless.”

Our officers now type their reports directly into our computerized records management system, which is much more efficient.

The types of crimes we typically respond to have also evolved over time. I worked a lot of night shifts when I was a Patrol Officer, and we were constantly responding to altercations at our taverns and bars back in the 90’s. Many bars were open until 2:00 AM, and we always tried to be a presence downtown. Now, we have pubs and more restaurants that close earlier at night and there just seems to be less

personality conflicts with the patrons. In the late 90’s, I was also assigned the task of handling the majority of our “bad check” cases which were fairly frequent.

Remember writing checks? Today, it is rare when we investigate a check case, however, cybercrime, internet fraud, credit card fraud, and on-line shopping delivery theft are common occurrences.

Our tools for identifying suspects have also evolved over the years.

In the early 90’s, we still used a Smith and Wesson brand “IdentiKit.” Witnesses would provide a description of the suspect and the officer or detective used a series of transparencies laid over each other to create the suspect’s image. Today,

security cameras and cell phone cameras are plentiful, and we can distribute suspect images for possible identification in minutes.

Back in the 90’s, our detective staff had the primary responsibility of writing and applying for search warrants.

The process included having to drive to Mount Vernon to have the warrant reviewed and signed by a judge.

It was a relatively slow process and not very timely if our detectives were off. Nowadays all our officers are trained and skilled in writing search warrants. Warrants are approved by a judge over the phone or electronically.

A young Chief Small at Bike Patrol training camp in 1994, in front of “the boat” patrol car.

Chief Small in 2021.

But as things have changed, some things remain constant. The Anacortes Police Department is still committed to hiring the best people and giving our best effort to keep our community safe. We remain a “full service” department where we do our best to have an officer available to respond to all types of complaints.

Anacortes is a special place, and it has been a constant blessing in my life to serve its citizens and work with an amazing group of police professionals.

Thank you, Anacortes, for the honor and privilege of serving my entire law enforcement career in this great city!

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Registration for Parks and Recreation programs is now open!

To register online for a Parks and Recreation program, visit www.anacortesparksandrecreation.sportsites.com, or scan the QR Code below. Click on the program you’d like to register for, and follow the prompts to log in. If you do not have an account please sign up and press the register today button located on the left under “Log In”. Participants can also register over the phone by calling 360-293-1918. The Parks and Recreation office is currently closed for in person sign ups.

Please be aware that payment will be required at the time of registration.

If you need to cancel please call the Parks and Recreation office.

I n s u r a n c e : The Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department (APRD) does not have medical insurance coverage for program participants and is not responsible for injuries that many occurs as a result in City sponsors recreation activities.

P l e a s e N o t e : The APRD does not discriminate against any person on the basis of gender in the operation, conduct, or administration of community athletic programs or sport facilities.

A c c e s s i b i l i t y : If reasonable accommodations due to disability is needed please contact the City Facilities Department at 360-299-1961 at least 48 hours prior to the event or class start date.

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By: Dustin South, Recreation Manager The past year was challenging for everyone with countless stories of upheavals and difficulties in our daily lives. I would like to tell the story of the recreation division of the Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department over the last 365 days.

In the spring of 2020, we had a robust offering of youth and adult programs scheduled, including our popular youth track and field and youth volleyball. Unfortunately, these were abruptly canceled. We redirected our focus to maintaining parks and open spaces to give people a healthy place to exercise.

As we headed into summer, we hoped to ramp up our offerings, but our focus is always the safety and wellbeing of our community and so most recreation offerings were cancelled.

We were able to offer modified programs including Survivor Camp, Pee Wee Sports Camp, Skyhawks Sport Camps, Virtual Art Dash, and “Bark in the Park” Food Drive.

Going into fall 2020, we made the difficult decision to cancel our youth soccer season the largest youth sport in Anacortes. We continued to plan virtual events like the Mt. Erie Road and Trail Run, soccer practice pods, and “Autumn in the ACFL,” a series of hikes in partnership with Friends of the Forest.

Through our partnership with the Anacortes School District, we developed Camp ACTIVE. It was a welcome addition for kids to get outside and move as they began virtual learning.

One parent commented to our staff: “Having the kids playing feels normal, it’s been a tough year for our boy, and he counts his sleeps until the next camp.”

Winter brought more challenges due to restrictions and weather. Programs were forced indoors, however, we were able to offer youth basketball skills training in small groups, Virtual Dog Walk/Run, February Fitness Initiative (in coordination with Anacortes Library), Fieldhouse Fun and Zoom with Santa.

As we head into the spring and summer season for 2021, we are excited to offer some normal programs. If you have any questions about upcoming programs please visit our website at www.anacorteswa.gov or call us at 360-293-1918.

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MAY 2021 FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUE The Co-Ed Flag Football League has already started but there is still space available. Please contact Travis Anderson, 360-299-1969 or travisa@cityofanacortes.org.

The league is designed for 1st-6th grade children with an emphasis on the fundamentals of football, good sportsmanship, and teamwork through practice and games. The sixweek program ran by the Anacortes High School football team will be coached by current and former Anacortes High School football players and coaches The program emphasizes learning the game and fun! We will have three weeks of practices and three weeks of games.

Players will leave the season having a chance to learn and play all positions on the field as well as a jersey, football and some great memories.

Location: Rice Field I n s t r u c t o r : Tr a v i s A n d e r s o n Class Size: Min 30 / Max 100 Fee: $65 A g e s : G r a d e s 1 s t- 6 t h D a t e s : We d n e s d a y s & F r i d a y s , May 12-June 11th Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm

JUNE

PEE WEE BASEBALL Learn the FUNdamentals in our popular Pee Wee Baseball program.

The Pee Wee Sports program is designed to give kids a basic introduction to the sport of their choice in a safe and fun atmosphere.

In this class kids will learn basic aspects of baseball; catching, hitting, throwing through fun drills and games.

L o c a t i o n : Vo l u n t e e r Pa r k I n s t r u c t o r : Tr a v i s A n d e r s o n Class Size: Min 25 / Max 50 Fee: $25 Ages: 4 - 6 D a t e s : Tu e s d a y s , J u n e 1 - 2 2 Time: 3:00pm-3:45pm

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KIDS FISHING EVENT We have partnered with the Puget Sound Anglers and the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife to bring a free fishing day for children 14 and younger. Bring your own fishing gear to Heart Lake Saturday, June 6th from 8:00am-5:00pm.

• No adult fishing allowed on June 6th.

• No fishing license required for children on the day of the event.

• Take a picture of your biggest Fish-submit to the Anacortes Parks and Rec Facebook Page.

• 5 fish limit per child.

TOTS IN THE PARK Spending time with your toddler can be a walk in the park. Join our staff at Washington Park as we explore nature, get dirty and have fun. The semi-guided class will give children the chance to interact, try new activities and play the day away.

L o c a t i o n : Wa s h i n g t o n Pa r k I n s t r u c t o r : Tr a v i s A n d e r s o n Class Size: Min 4 / Max 12 Fee: $25 Ages: 1-3 Dates: Mondays, June 7-21 Time: 10:00am-10:45am

ANACORTES YOUTH VOLLEYBALL CAMP Pass, set and attack the ball with the High School Girls Volleyball team and coaching staff. This fun three day camp will cover the basic fundamentals involved with playing volleyball. A camp T-shirt is included with your fee.

Knee pads are not required, but highly recommended.

Location: Anacor tes Middle School I n s t r u c t o r : A H S Vo l l e y ba l l St a f f and Players Class Size: Min 10 / Max 50 Fee: $45 A g e s : G o i n g i n t o 3 rd - 6 t h G r a d e D a t e s : J u n e 8 , 1 0 , & 1 1 ( Tu / T h / F ) Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm

ADULT CO - ED SOFTBALL LEAGUE We are accepting team registrations for our annual Adult Co-ed Softball League. For more information or to register your team online visit: www.anacorteswa.gov/540/AdultCo-ed-Softball-League Games will be played on Sundays in July and August. Deadline for teams to register will be Friday, June 11 by 5:00 p.m. If after looking online, you need more details, please email: dustins@cityofanacortes.org or call (360) 299-1948.

SURVIVOR CAMP

NIGHT OUT AT THE PARK Let’s get your summer vacation started right this year. Join the friendly Parks and Recreation staff as we spend the evening creating memories. We will spend the evening at Washington Park, making s’mores, hiking, playing a few silly games, eating dinner and some special sweet treats. This is a popular class; sign up early as space is limited. Parents, take advantage of this opportunity to do something for you, or enjoy some quiet time in the house!

L o c a t i o n : Wa s h i n g t o n Pa r k I n s t r u c t o r : Tr a v i s A n d e r s o n Class Size: Min 5 / Max 15 Fee: $15 Ages: 6-10 D a t e : T h u r s d a y, J u n e 2 4 t h Time: 5:00pm-8:00pm

GIRLS BASKETBALL CAMP Have fun while improving your basketball skills in this active three day camp. The fundamentals of dribbling, shooting, passing and footwork will be taught in an engaging way by Anacortes High School coaches and players.

Location: Anacor tes Middle S c h o o l Gy m I n s t r u c t o r : A H S G i r l s B a s ke t ba l l St a f f & P l a y e r s Class Size: Min 20 / Max 40 Fee: $45 A g e s : G r a d e s g o i n g i n t o 1 s t- 8 t h D a t e s : M o n d a y - T h u r s d a y, J u n e 2 9 - 3 0 ( M , W, T H ) 6th-8th graders: 10:00am-12pm 1 s t- 5 t h g r a d e r s : 1:00pm-3:00pm

2021 YOUTH SOCCER LEAGUE

Sign up today for this awesome summer camp! Spend time out at Washington Park exploring, competing in challenges as a team and as an individual. You will also get dirty, try new things and hopefully make some new friends. Each day at camp we will provide a light snack and encourage kids to have as much fun as possible. This camp has limited capacity and registration will fill up very quickly. Because of this, we will hold a registration lottery. You can register for the lottery on the first day of signups, you will not have to pay at that time. The Parks and Recreation staff will contact those selected to register.

WEEK ONE

L o c a t i o n : Wa s h i n g t o n Pa r k I n s t r u c t o r : Tr a v i s A n d e r s o n Class Size: Min 10 / Max 25 Fee: $50 A g e s : G r a d e s 1 s t- 5 t h D a t e s : M o n d a y - T h u r s d a y,

June 28th-July 1st Time: 9:00am-12:00pm

WEEK TWO

L o c a t i o n : Wa s h i n g t o n Pa r k I n s t r u c t o r : Tr a v i s A n d e r s o n Class Size: Min 10 / Max 26 Fee: $50 A g e s : G r a d e s 1 s t- 5 t h D a t e s : M o n d a y - T h u r s d a y,

July 12th-July 15th Time: 9:00am-12:00pm

We are now taking registrations for the Fall season! Starting in late August, practices are held on weekday evenings and games are played on Saturdays. This is a recreational program where rules and field size are modified to increase learning of the game and maximize success. The league is available for boys and girls. To see what age group your child will be in, visit our online registration site at: www.anacorteswa.gov/552/Girls-Boys-Soccer

CITY LEAGUE

COUNTY LEAGUE

Ages 5-11

Ages 10-13

All practices and games are held in Anacortes. Teams will play on smaller fields with fewer players on each team. This encourages more “touches” on the ball and helps develop skills players will need as they get older.

Teams participate in the Skagit Valley Youth Soccer Association recreational league. Teams will practice in-town but play games throughout Skagit County, including Anacortes.

FEE: $42

FEE: $64

REGISTRATION DEADLINES:

County League & City League Monday, July 5 @ 5:00 p.m.

Volunteer coaches are needed for City and County teams. If you are interested we will train and provide you with tools/resources to coach a team. Please contact us at (360) 293-1918 for more information about coaching.

Fees include a team shirt/jersey only; participants are responsible for providing their own cleats and shin guards.

Please visit www.anacortesparksandrecreation.sportsiteslabs.com for more information.

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JULY

SEAHAWK YOUTH SOCCER CAMP Fun for all girls and boys going into kindergarten through 5th grade interested in soccer. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for your child to increase their soccer skills through fun practices taught by the Seahawk girls soccer team. From goalkeeper to forward, your child will receive knowledgeable coaching through fun games, drills and small sided matches.

This camp will have a specific goalkeeping session for all interested players. All campers will receive a ball and player evaluation with a picture of their coach and camp team. This is a great opportunity for your child to see positive high school role models playing a sport they love. Come join the fun! The camp is held rain or shine so it is important players come prepared with; cleats or tennis shoes, shin guards, water bottle, healthy snack, goalie gloves (if applicable) and appropriate clothing for all weather.

Location: Kiwanis Meadows Instructor : AHS Girls Soccer

St a f f a n d P l a y e r s Class Size: Min 30 / Max 80 Fee: $65 Ages: Going into K-5th Grade Dates: July 5 - 8 (M-Th) Time: 9:00am-11:30am

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YOUTH WRESTLING CLINIC The Anacortes Hawkeyes Youth Wrestling Club 2021 Wrestling Day Camp is for beginners. Wrestling shoes are available to borrow, or participants can wear socks, please wear appropriate clothing such as shorts/sweats and a t-shirt. Campers will receive a Hawkeyes T-shirt at the conclusion of the camp. If you have questions contact Head Coach Rodney Bickley at 360-630-9859 or atownhawkeyes@gmail.com.

Location: Anacor tes Middle

S c h o o l Gy m I n s t r u c t o r : C oa c h Ro d n e y

Bickley Class Size: Min 10 / Max 40 Fee: $80 A g e s : G o i n g i n t o 1 s t- 8 t h G r a d e Dates: July 12-15 (M-Th) Time: 9:00am-11:00am

DINO CAMP Go on a Jurassic adventure! This camp will create a prehistoric adventure where campers will learn about some of their favorite dinosaurs while playing dinosaur themed games and activities. Sign up your future paleontologist today!

L o c a t i o n : Wa s h i n g t o n Pa r k I n s t r u c t o r : Tr a v i s A n d e r s o n Class Size: Min 10 / Max 25 Fee: $50 A g e s : G r a d e s 1 s t- 5 t h D a t e s : M o n d a y - We d n e s d a y, July 26-28 Time: 9:00am-12:00pm

ART DASH FUN RUN In its 16th year, the Art Dash has established itself in the northwest running scene. It will take place Saturday July 31st. This year’s race has shifted to a 5k and 10k fun run with music, obstacles, art and beautiful waterfront scenery. The chip timing is managed

by NW Endurance Events. Costumes are encouraged! Come for the RUN and stay for the FUN! The Art Dash is a partnership between the Arts Festival and City of Anacortes Parks & Recreation, with proceeds funding public art projects.

L o c a t i o n : Po r t D o c k Class Size: 100 /400 Fee: $25 Ages: All D a t e s : S a t u rd a y, J u l y 3 1 T i m e : 1 0 : 0 0 a m - s t a g g e re d s t a r t s

SEPTEMBER PEE WEE SOCCER Learn the FUNdamentals in our popular Pee Wee Soccer program. The Pee Wee Sports program is designed to give kids a basic introduction to the sport of their choice in a safe and fun atmosphere. In this class, kids will learn basic aspects of soccer; dribbling, scoring, passing and kicking through fun drills and games.

Location: Kiwanis Meadows I n s t r u c t o r : Tr a v i s A n d e r s o n Class Size: Min 25 / Max 50 Fee: $25 Ages: 4-6 D a t e s : We d n e s d a y s , S e p t 1 - 2 2 Time: 1:00pm-1:45pm

SAILING CLASSES Sailing classes are offered through a collaboration of the City of Anacortes and the Anacortes Waterfront Alliance. More small boating activities and programs can be found by visiting AWA information on page 4.

BEGINNER CLASS Students learn the fundamentals of sailing with an emphasis on safety on the water. At the end of the week, students will be comfortable in rigging and handling a boat. They should be familiar with terminology, basic knots and theories. Sailboats used will be singlehanded Optimist & RS Tera Dinghies.

L o c a t i o n : S e a f a re r ’s Pa r k Ages: 9-13 Class Size: Min 4 / Max 7 Fee: $120 Instructor : Anacor tes Wa t e r f ro n t A l l i a n c e St a f f Dates and Times: Session 1: June 28 - July 1 (M-Th) 2:00pm-6:00pm Session 2: July 12 - 15 (M-Th) 2:00pm-6:00pm Session 3:

July 26 - 29 (M-Th) 10:00am-2:00pm Session 4: Aug 2-5 (M-Th) 2:00pm-6:00pm Session 5: Aug 23-26 (M-Th) 10:00am-2:00pm Session 6: Aug 30-Sept 2 (M-Th) 2:00pm-6:00pm *This class may be combined with the intermediate class.

INTERMEDIATE CLASS Students should have a basic knowledge of dinghy (small boat sailing) or have attended Beginner Class. We begin with a review of safety and basic right of way. Also, a review of terminology and basic knots and theories. Sailors will continue to advance their skills in boat handling, refining techniques with drills designed to help the student develop their awareness of the effects of current, wind, and weather. Time on the water is important. Sailboats used will be either singlehanded or doublehanded sailing dinghies.

L o c a t i o n : S e a f a re r ’s Pa r k Ages: 10-15 Class Size: Min 4 / Max 7 Fee: $120 Instructor : Anacor tes Wa t e r f ro n t A l l i a n c e St a f f Dates and Times: Session 1: J u l y 6 - 9 ( Tu - F ) 2:00pm-6:00pm Session 2: July 12-15 (M-Th) 10:00am-2:00pm Session 3: July 26-29 (M-Th) 2:00pm-6:00pm

Session 4:

Aug 2-5 (M-Th) 10:00am-2:00pm Session 5: Aug 9-12 (M-Th) 2:00pm-6:00pm Session 6: Aug 16-19 (M-Th) 2:00pm-6:00pm Session 7: Aug 23-26 (M-Th) 2:00pm-6:00pm

ADULT CLASS Students learn the fundamentals of sailing with an emphasis on safety on the water.

At the end of the week students will be comfortable in rigging and handling a boat.

They should be familiar with terminology, basic knots and theories. Sailboats used will be Lidos.

L o c a t i o n : S e a f a re r ’s Pa r k Ages: 18+ Class Size: Min 4 / Max 7 Fee: $175 I n s t r u c t o r : A n a c o r t e s Wa t e r f ro n t A l l i a n c e St a f f Dates and Times: July 19-22 (M-Th) 4:00pm-8:00pm Aug 30 - Sept 2 (M-Th) 4:00pm-8:00pm SPRING 2021

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SIGN UP TODAY! Anacortes Parks and Recreation For more information contact Leandro Bargei.

916.272.7542, lbarge@challengersports.com

USA’S SMALL-SIDED. FRANCE’S POSSESSION. BRAZIL’S CREATIVITY. BRITAIN’S SPEED, POWER & FITNESS. SPAIN’S PASSING & MOVING. Challenger’s International Soccer Camp is the combination of the most popular training sessions from the world’s top soccer nations: Brazil, England, France, Spain, and the U.S.!

Sessions will be led by a team of experienced International coaches and will be integrated with Challenger’s iChallenge training app, which will help players develop skills and creativity.

Make camp even more special for your child. Host one of our International coaches.

JULY 19th - JULY 23rd @ VOLUNTEER PARK, ANACORTES - WA TinyTykes

Ages 3-5

8:00am - 9:00am

$107

Half Day Program AM

Ages 6-16

9:00am - 12:00pm

$143

Half Day Program PM

Ages 8-16

1:00pm - 4:00pm

$143

Full Day Program

Ages 8-16

9:00am - 4:00pm

$205

Register online at: CHALLENGERSPORTS.COM

FREE GIFTS: Camp T-shirt, Soccer Ball, Player Evaluation/Poster, Access to Juggling Club Sampler.

FREE JERSEY. To receive your free jersey, register online 30 days prior to your camp (A $34.95 value!). S&H fees apply.

Camper Name _____________________________________________________________________ Male _______ Female _______ D.O.B. ___________________________ Age ________________

I hereby release Challenger Sports and any hosting

Join us for a guided community hike! They are FREE and no registration organization from is anyrequired. and all claims and liability of weany ask that you leave pets kind of personal injury oryour property damage due to participation in this I understand that at home. All hikes will follow Covid safety protocols. See you in the woods! camp.

For complete T-shirt Size: YS ______ YM ______ YL ______ AS ______ AM ______ AL ______ XL ________ Ball Size: Size 3 (U8) __________ Size 4 (8-12) __________ Size 5 (13+) ________________ participation in sports camps include physical details, please visit www.friendsoftheacfl.org Camp Program ____________________________________________________________________ Time _________________________________________________________ Date _______________ Please keep in mind that our hikes are for people only so

Parent/Guardian ___________________________________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________________________________________

Family Nature Walk

Mosses in the ACFL

Easy: May 29, 11:30am Home Address _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 12:30 pm, Whistle Lake Lot

City ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ST ____________________ ZIP ________________________ Theme: Lifecycles- Join our gentle family hike with Forest Educator Beck, who will

contact and certify that my child is in good health and able to participate in all activities. I agree to notify the

coaching staff of any 9, preexisting Intermediate: July 10am- medical or psychological 12pm, Whistleconditions.

Lake LotIf attention is required for

illness or injury, I give my permission to a staff Mosses are everywhere, yet seldom appreciated. Hike out with our group to learn more member for such care. I give my consent for my child have family friendly nature activities, games, and stories to share. We’ll follow the kids’ about the mosses that call the ACFL home, and some of the tiny organisms that call Phone(s) _____________________________________________________ Contact ________________________________________________ Phone _____________________________ pace and let them guide the nature inquiry. Masks notEmergency required for children under two. to be photographed or video taped while participating moss home. in camp activities and for the resulting images to be [ ] YES, we are interested in hosting a coach. Credit card information destroyed immediately processing. Online registration is available at www.challengersports.com.

Intermediate: June 8, after 10amusedJuly

by Challenger Sports for promotional purposes.

Easy: 17, 11:30am-1pm,

Rocky Rest Loop

Family Nature Walk

[

11:30 am,$ Ray Auld Dr. Lot ] ENCLOSED CHECK. Make checks payable to Challenger Sports.

Amount _________________________________________________ Check # ________________________________ A Ave. Access

[

10am-12pm, 29th St. accessCard # _____________________________________________________________ ] CREDIT CARD. Name on Card ________________________________________________________________

This group hike will lead us to a rocky vista overlooking Lake Erie and beyond. We’ll Theme: Forest Plants- Join our gentle family hike with Forest Educator Beck, who will examineup examples of post-logging and glacial geology, inspiring$10 conversahave family friendly nature games, stories to____________________________________ share. We’ll follow the kids’ If signing less than 10 days priorreforestation to camp, please include an additional late fee. $40 Cancellation Fee — at leastactivities, 10 days prior toand camp. _______________ tions about how humans’ perception of time influences how we think about the future. pace and let them guide the nature inquiry. Masks not required children under two.

No refunds for cancellation within 10 days of camp.

Parentfor Signature Date

Fire Ecology Hike

Intermediate: June 22,

Dragonflies

Easy: July 22, 10am-12pm, Little Lake Lot Exp. Cranberry Date ________________________________________

We’ll visit the site of the 2016 Cranberry Lake fire and see how the forest is regrowing.

A secret about dragonfly behavior was discovered right here at Little Cranberry Lake.

We’ll also discuss the human impacts amplifying fire season in the West.

about their lifecycles, and discover fascinating facts about dragonflies.

Billing Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Certain species of plants thrive in post-fire conditions, which we’ll learn more about.

Come join our hike to learn more about the dragonflies whoCVV call_____________________________________________ the ACFL home, learn

ACFL Traverse

Challenging: June 30, 9am1pm, Ray Auld Dr. Lot

This long hike will take us into two ACFL corridors—starting through Heart Lake corridor with a lollipop loop in Little Cranberry corridor. We’ll come across old growth trees, wetlands, rocky bluffs, and look for wildlife along the way. Be sure to bring snacks!

Hello Hills Hike

Intermediate: Aug/ 28,REGISTER 7amONLINE 9am, Whistle Lake Lot

Wake up early for a hike on the hilly trails in the Whistle Lake corridor. We’ll greet the day, listen to the morning’s birds, and loop around Whistle Lake.

Visit our website for up-to-date hike calendars and driving directions at www.friendsoftheacfl.org or to contact us with any questions about our hikes.

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REGISTER AT CHALLENGERSPORTS.COM / 000.000.0000

ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION

YOUTH SPORTS

SKILL-BASED PROGRAMS

Skyhawks Sports Academy provides sports programs where children discover and develop athletic skills and social values, such as teamwork, respect and sportsmanship. We offer children a positive sports experience while promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.

SUMMER 2021 TENNIS CAMP

In Skyhawks tennis programs, boys and girls learn proper grips, footwork, strokes, volleys and serves, as well as the rules and etiquette that make tennis an exciting game. Programs fill quickly due to limited court space.

SSA122175

6/28 - 7/02

M-F

8:30 a.m. - 9:15 a.m.

4-5

$69

SSA122177

6/28 - 7/02

M-F

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

7-12

$135

SSA122176

6/28 - 7/02

M-F

1:00 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

6-8

$69

Anacortes Middle School (tennis courts) Anacortes Middle School (tennis courts) Anacortes Middle School (tennis courts)

MINI-HAWK® CAMP (BASEBALL, BASKETBALL & SOCCER) This multi-sport program was developed to give children a positive first step into athletics. Sports are taught in a safe, structured environment filled with encouragement and fun. Through exciting games and activities, campers explore balance, hand/eye coordination and skill development at their own pace.

SSA122178

7/19 - 7/23

M-F

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

4-7

$135

Mt. Erie Elementary

MULTI-SPORT CAMP (BASEBALL, FLAG FOOTBALL & SOCCER) Our multi-sport camp is designed to introduce young athletes to a variety of different sports in one setting. Athletes will learn the rules and essentials of each sport through skill-based games and scrimmages. By the end of the week, your child will walk away with knowledge of multiple sports along with vital life lessons such as respect, teamwork, and self-discipline.

SSA122179

7/19 - 7/23

M-F

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

6-12

$169

Mt. Erie Elementary

TRACK AND FIELD CAMP Skyhawks track and field combines technical development, fundamental techniques and safety with a major focus on fun! Using special equipment, boys and girls learn the fundamentals of body positioning, stride, proper stretching and cool-down techniques.

SSA122182

7/26 - 7/30

M-F

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

6-12

$135

Anacortes High School

BASKETBALL CAMP This fun, skill-intensive program is designed for beginning to intermediate players. Using our progressional curriculum, we focus on the whole player -teaching sportsmanship and teamwork. Boys and girls will learn the fundamentals of passing, shooting, ball handling, rebounding and defense through skill-based instruction and small-sided scrimmages.

SSA122180

8/02 - 8/06

M-F

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

6-12

$135

Mt. Erie Elementary

LACROSSE CAMP Athletes will learn all the fundamentals of stick handling, cradling, passing and shooting in a fun, non-checking environment.

Participants should wear appropriate athletic attire and bring protective gloves, a helmet with full mask (or goggles) and lacrosse stick.

SSA122181

8/02 - 8/06

M-F

SPACE IS LIMITED!

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

REGISTER TODAY

6-12

Online:

$135

skyhawks.com

Mt. Erie Elementary

Phone:

800.804.3509

SPRING 2021

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WELCOME BACK The library is now open for express browsing by appointment.

NEW HOURS Curbside Service: Tuesdays 11:00 am–6:00 pm Wed - Sat 11:00 am–4:00 pm Browsing by Appointment: Thu - Sat 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Closed Sunday & Monday 360-293-1910

A

fter being closed over a year, the library opened its doors for appointments on April 1st. The library looked different. Everyone was masked. Many of our favorite things had to be stored: soft chairs were put away, children’s activities were takehome only, and toys and play spaces were gone – but we are open!

We have missed you. Just having a few of you at a time in the library has returned our smiles, even if you can’t see them under our masks.

It’s not normal, but it’s a first step.

There’s acrylic between us, only a few computers are available, and visits to the library are brief, not lingering. Our community hub is only accessible through one door, and programs remain online. Or at least, that was the case when this went to print.

Call us to find out more. Check our website often. As restrictions ease, we’ll keep adding services just as soon as it is safe to do so, and we hope that well before 2021 is over, we’ll all be browsing the stacks leisurely, congregating at tables, and relaxing in chairs perusing new books. Summer reading continues.

Storytimes are new each week.

Curbside delivery remains. We are resilient, the library is yours, and we look forward to welcoming you back each time we enter a new phase.

Thank you for using and supporting your library.

library.cityofanacortes.org

We’re glad to have you back in the library!

For the most up to date library hours and information, visit our website:

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ADULTS

TEENS

Get updates online by subscribing to our newsletter, follow us on Instagram or Facebook, and find out about upcoming workshops and classes this summer. Pick up a reading log for yourself this summer and join in the reading fun. Adult summer reading is at your own pace, and any participation will enter you for our prize drawing of local goodies and books at the end of the summer.

Join us for Zoom hangouts, Take and Make activities, and art classes this summer. Sign up for summer reading to win prizes, and of course get a prize book. Subscribe to our teen newsletter to find out about the newest teen programs all summer long or follow us on Instagram.

Contact dianaf@cityofanacortes.org for volunteer opportunities or to request a program.

Programs remain virtual for now, but if we can meet outside or we get to a new phase, we’ll let you know about changes to our programs.

DISCOVER PASS

Check out Washington’s great outdoors!

Access state parks and public lands for free with a one week checkout of a Discover Pass, available now at APL.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY PROGRAMS RESUME IN THE The FriendShop remains closed, but you can still support the Friends of the FALL

Stay tuned for live Zoom events, community videos, Maritime & Manieri programs, workshops and more!

Visit library.cityofanacortes.org for dates and times.

S TAY U P D AT E D!

Library! Help provide funding for books and programming at APL by becoming a member or making a financial donation today at friendsoftheanacorteslibrary.org

Sign up for our newsletter library.cityofanacortes.org Follow us on Facebook facebook.com/AnacortesPublic Library

Director’s Note

At the time of writing this, the library was a week from reopening after being closed for an entire year.

Hopefully, as you are reading this, Covid-19 is further in the rearview mirror and you’ve already visited us.

Although we stayed incredibly busy with curbside and hundreds of virtual programs over the last year, the library as a shared space is at the heart of what we offer the community.

As we prepared for reopening, the staff discussed how strange it was that over 700 people who signed up for library cards while we were closed had never even set foot in the library. Leslie Wilson, our Youth Services Librarian, shared a story of being recognized while walking in downtown Anacortes by a young kid shouting from a car window, “Miss Leslie!” Turns out it was a family new to town who only knew Leslie from her virtual Children’s storytimes and who were so excited to come see the library in person. The pandemic is a stark reminder of how quickly things can change and how important community and connection remain.

I’m excited for what 2021 will bring and for the library to once again become a shared space where we can meet together as a process of collective healing from a season of isolation.

- Jeff Vogel, Director

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SUMMER READING VIRTUAL STORYTIMES JUNE 21 - JULY 30

Watch summer reading storytimes throughout the week on our Facebook page.

Family Storytime—all ages Tuesdays Be Creative with Ria—all ages Wednesdays Pajama Storytime—all ages Thursdays Toddler Storytime—birth to 3 Fridays The storytime schedule will be updated in the fall, stay tuned!

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Throughout the summer there will be three Zoom STEAM classes: Leap into Science: Light & Shadows – Put on your thinking cap as we explore the world of light and shadow.

Color Wheel – Learn about mixing colors and make a color wheel using a CD. What About Water? – Let’s explore what sinks and what floats!

Sign up for the Children’s Library Newsletter or check the library website for details to sign up.

LIVE AUTHOR EVENT Andrew Root, author of Nerdycorn will be joining us live for a virtual storytime and Q&A via Zoom!

Nerdycorn is the story of Fern, a smart, creative unicorn who loves building robots and coding software more than jumping through shimmering rainbows and splashing in majestic waterfalls.

Get details and register for this free event at library.cityofanacortes.org.

PRIZES

We will have a halfway prize for you and a new book to choose at the end of summer reading. When you finish your bingo sheet or reading log you’ll also be entered into our grand prize drawing.

Here are the details: July 15 - Halfway Prizes are available in the Children’s Library – bring your bingo sheet!

August 1 – Prize book pick up begins August 31 – Prize books end September 7 - Grand Prize winners notified

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READING COLORS YOUR WORLD June 21 - August 31 Summer… a time of year that is just filled with possibilities and Summer Reading is a great choice for everyone – kids, teens, and adults. This year our theme is Reading Colors Your World, and we invite you to join us to get creative, explore art, try new things, and find beauty in diversity!

Weekly storytimes and a variety of creative programs provide great opportunities to discover a new author or series, delve into a new subject, or try a craft for the first time. Summer reading also gives you a chance to read whatever you’d like – perhaps seek out a new genre, find a new author, or research a topic you’ve always been curious about.

The youth services team is here to help make your summer reading experience fun! Remember that reading & listening in all formats counts.

“Reading is a passport to countless adventures.“

– Mary Pope Osborne

“Thanks for all you do. I know the pandemic is a stressful time for many, but you folks at the library have risen to the challenge and surpassed it.

You are needed now more than ever.”

-Robbie

S TAY U P D AT E D!

Sign up for our newsletter library.cityofanacortes.org Follow us on Facebook

SPRING 2021

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Reopening the

nacortes A Museum Look for our “Open” flag this spring at the Carnegie Gallery at 1305 8th Street! We will be following the current health guidelines as they evolve. In Phase 3, museums and cultural centers may operate at 50 percent total capacity. Masks will be required for staff, volunteers, and patrons ages 5 and up; staggered entry and signage will encourage social distancing.

If you would like to visit the Anacortes Museum we encourage you to please visit our website by scanning the QR Code or visit www.anacorteswa.gov/333/Museum, or by calling 360293-1915 to check for scheduling updates.

the Anacortes Museum Foundation has the capacity to accept website donations and otherwise support Anacortes Mural Photographers of Anacortes, a longProject fundraising. delayed exhibit, is moving forward and will open this summer. The City’s first photographers were intrepid artists and talented technicians – restless men and independent women who worked with cumbersome equipment and glass plates. Like other museums, we have been The exhibit will spotlight the camera inspired by social reform movements to more closely examine our own operators whose images allow us to see institution and to work harder to include the city as it emerged from wilderness the contributions and experiences of all and took shape. Glimpses of this exhibit members of the community, now and in will soon appear on the Anacortes history.

Museum website.

We are making efforts to further research and record the histories of citizens from Mitchell Mural Update diverse ethnic backgrounds.

A Developing Exhibit

Visit anacortesmuseumfoundation.org to learn more.

Equity & Inclusiveness

In 2020, the Anacortes Museum accepted the gift of Bill Mitchell murals from his estate and are now making placement agreements with owners of the buildings that host the murals. We have consulted with a mural conservationist on best practices for protecting them. It will be an ongoing effort. In addition to the Museum Foundation’s mural maintenance fund, the Anacortes Museum has created a Bill Mitchell documentary film – and Mark Mitchell is working on a sequel coloring book of Bill’s art. Meanwhile,

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Anacortes residents, the Okawa sisters, Kikuko and Kimiko Okawa.

A commitment to equity and inclusion in our collection, in exhibits and in social media content, like the recent series during Black History Month, will be ongoing.

We will continue to include these stories and invite the voices of people who can help make sure that underrepresented groups have their place in our shared history.

Cannery Row Exhibit at the Maritime Heritage Center this summer

Salmon canning began in Anacortes in 1896 and was a way of life for many in the community for much of the 20th century.

of Honor recipient James Okubo, and the Okawa sisters, Kikuko and Kimiko (see photo on preceding page).

At the Maritime Heritage Center we will open an exhibit this summer showing why Anacortes was once the Salmon Canning Capital of the world. This overview, spanning from the early years to present day, covers history of cannery locations and the people who did the work, with a focus on the diversity of the workforce in the local seafood processing industry. Recently acquired images and history highlights the role of Japanese immigrants in early Anacortes canneries, including the families of Anacortes-born Medal

This is the latest in our Working Waterfront series and will be previewed online as it is developed in an effort to invite input from the community, including a request for cannery-related artifacts, photos, stories and more.

We have hundreds of photographs relating to the salmon industry in our online collection: anacortes.pastperfectonline.com/ randomimages

Anacortes Museum

YouTube Channel The Anacortes Museum prides itself on being a time machine for our town. We’ve gotten a little more modern with web resources (70,000 museum photos are now online), social media, and the launch of an official Anacortes Museum YouTube Channel.

Rare historical footage and films, from as early as the 1950s, have been released from our archives and are up for public viewing. Marvel at the legendary Anacortes Seahawks basketball teams, learn about the extensive waterfront history of Anacortes told by those directly involved, and witness the breathtaking destruction of the “Little Chicago” fires of 1957!

Recently we’ve started an exciting new video documentary

project called Organ Territory. In collaboration with local musicians, we explore the history and community of Anacortes and how these homegrown artists have sprouted from our fertile soil. Each episode features these musicians playing unreleased music on our antique 1866 Packard pump organ.

The San Juans ferry at its I Avenue dock in the 1950s film Our Town Anacortes.

John Van Deusen performs on the museum’s organ.

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COVID-19 has changed the way we live, work and learn. One of the many ways the City responded to this global pandemic was to increase access to our high-speed Internet network. Anacortes residents quickly learned that between kids in Zoom school, parents telecommuting, and everyone getting creative staying connected while remaining physically distant, they needed the fastest, most reliable internet possible. And Access – Anacortes Fiber Internet has delivered! Since the lockdown began in March 2020, we have increased the number of customers in our service areas to over 630. We are expanding our infrastructure now for another 2,375 customers to be able to utilize our internet service in the west side, and in 2022 our expansion will include another 1,815 premises.

We have all been affected in ways great and small by this unprecedented pandemic. It has become abundantly clear that high-speed, reliable internet is more important than it has ever been. Although the City began building the infrastructure to provide fiber optic internet prior to COVID-19, the pandemic has accelerated our work. We strongly believe that stepping up to meet community need is one of the biggest responsibilities as a municipality and we are committed to expanding internet access throughout.

Residential Plans

Business Plans

Month to Month

12 Month Contract

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$39/month $69/month $10/month $100

100 Mbps 1 Gbps Managed WiFi Install Fee

$89/month $149/month $10/month $100

Anacortes. Access Anacortes is YOUR community provider of high-speed, reliable internet. When we named our service “Access – Anacortes Fiber Internet” prior to COVID-19, we had no idea how much the word access would come to mean to us as businesses, schools and our normal way of life changed overnight. Access Anacortes Fiber Internet empowers education, business, telecommuting, telemedicine, and communication within the Anacortes community by unlocking the door to affordable and reliable high-speed fiber internet. Our sole purpose is to serve our community and provide options to better serve the needs of our diverse citizens. In addition to providing internet services to City facilities, we provide fiber internet service to residents, small and large businesses, entrepreneurs, and medical facilities and providers, the Port of Anacortes, and the Samish Indian Nation. Our goal is to provide fast, reliable, and affordable Internet options to City residents. Low-income and indigent residents can apply for a 20% discount on their fiber internet monthly fee. If you currently have Access Fiber as your service provider and qualify for reduced rates, please contact the Fiber Department at (360) 588-8300.

Access Anacortes Fiber Internet is continuing to expand our service network area as we build out the infrastructure to meet the goal of being able to provide internet to every business and resident in Anacortes. Life after COVID-19 may very well look different for many of us, and your internet speed and reliability will likely be more important than ever. Perhaps your kids will still attend some of their classes online, or you find that telecommuting to work a few days a week is more productive and gives you a work/life balance you do not want to give up.

Whatever the changes to your normal routine may be, Access Anacortes Fiber Internet will be here to ensure you have the fastest, most reliable internet available.

Design is currently underway for the 2021 expansion area which includes west of Anacopper Rd and construction will begin in early summer, expanding our ability to serve 4,753 premises by year end.

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Housing Affordability and Community Services in Anacortes

By: Councilperson Carolyn Moulton All Anacortes City Councilmembers serve on multiple committees that inform us about the internal workings of different City departments. Committees give us great opportunities to work with staff and learn about processes that keep the machinery of our City running smoothly (mostly!). Our goal is always to maintain our high quality of life while planning for a future that is even better for all of us.

I currently serve on the Public Works, Planning, Parks and Recreation, Traffic Safety, and Accessible Community Advisory Committees. This is some of my favorite work as a Councilmember, where I learn about the way things work at the City and how I can contribute to the process. We get down to the nuts and bolts, and report back to the public at Council meetings about the status and plans for projects and initiatives.

I also serve on the Housing Affordability and Community Services Committee (HACS) with fellow Councilmembers Ryan Walters and Christine ClelandMcGrath. Our job is to develop strategies to improve housing affordability and human services, and to make recommendations for City and Federal CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) allocations for social services. As the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored, the social service needs of our community are increasing. Employment, housing, and food security issues grow with economic upheaval and inequality. Of particular concern are the mental health challenges exacerbated by these conditions.

When COVID-19 hit, the HACS Committee worked with Planning staff members Don Measamer and Joann Stewart to develop our Small Business Stabilization Grant Program, using CARES Act funding from the federal government. That funding, combined with generous donations from anonymous community members, provided over $258,000 in grants to help 34 local Anacortes businesses survive the economic plummet caused by the pandemic.

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With advocacy by the HACS Committee, our City Council secured $50,000 in the 2021 City Budget to increase the reach and effectiveness of our existing social services network. Our community spoke loudly and eloquently about the urgent need to examine our funding priorities, particularly regarding our commitment to our citizens’ mental health needs. I am grateful to the individuals and groups that continue to provide us resources and information to help us effectively direct this funding to strengthen our HACS services.

The 2021 City Budget entrusts the HACS Committee with a project I am excited to be a part of:

“Section 7. The City Council Housing Affordability & Community Services Committee is directed to work with existing community services providers, city departments, and the public.

This work aims to identify the social services needs of city residents in financial, emotional, or mental health crises and develop a plan to strengthen and ensure those services or resources are provided by city or third-party providers. The plan must be data-driven and must identify appropriate and sustainable funding sources. The HACS Committee must report its findings and recommendation to the City Council and community by June 30, 2021.”

REPORT A SPILL We are well at work on our Community Services Strategic Plan, which first identifies the inventory of existing social services and their providers in Anacortes and Skagit County. This is a broad matrix of organizations that provide resources such as food, shelter, clothing, and mental health assistance.

Many are highly recognized, including the Anacortes Family Center, Salvation Army, and didgwálic Wellness Center. Others are perhaps less well known, such as the First Baptist Church Clothes Closet and Skagit Valley College’s Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program.

The HACS Committee will share our results during and after a community outreach process, inviting mental health professionals and other stakeholders to roundtable discussions with City Councilmembers and staff. Together we will determine how best to fill gaps in services, leading to a more robust and effective social services network.

The importance of public input to our effectiveness cannot be overstated. Many community-minded citizens are contributing their energy and expertise to our project.

If you would like to participate in this ongoing conversation, please contact me at carolynm@cityofanacortes.org or 360-472-0335.

Help us with: 1. Spill Location 2. Substance 3. Estimated Amount 4. Did it enter the Stormdrain?

PLEASE CALL: 360-293-1921 If you want to learn more about the City of Anacortes Stormwater Division read about our illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Program on page 11.

I welcome your thoughts and ideas!

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Planning, Community, & Economic Development

By: Joann Stewart, Program Coordinator and Rob Frisinger, Building Inspector ur goal is to help Anacortes remain the vibrant city we all love and keep it a destination for visistors.

The resiliency and dedication of our community is heartwarming. COVID-19 came into our community and what followed was unprecedented measures to help keep our community safe. We are grateful to see the thoughtfulness, willingness, encouragement, and the ability of our community to bounce back upon reopening. We have found efficiencies and made improvements over this last year and a shining example of that is our permitting process.

A year ago, we discovered that we were going to have a new way of doing things. The novel coronavirus required the City to adapt in novel ways of our own. Staff had to pivot from welcoming folks at the counter to meeting people at the door for a quick handoff and a promise to call later. We looked at the situation at hand and approached it with a “can do” attitude. We realized that we had to re-invent our permitting process in a hurry, leveraging existing systems, and yet continue to actively engage with the community. We were up to the task.

We went from an entirely paper-based system to receiving, reviewing, and issuing permits digitally. We used existing software for approving plans, email to take them in, and a plastic tote for those without a computer. Most plans were drawn on computers and printed out, reviewed, built, and the final plans digitized at the completion in order to store them. Eliminating the paper step added a layer of safety for all, while reducing costs and turnaround time.

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Now the majority of permitting goes straight from the citizen’s computer to the City, and back. When the applications come in, our talented Permit Coordinator sorts the files and sends them to staff, who review them concurrently. This greatly reduces turnaround time. Once approved, the applicant is billed via email. They use the same online system that the City uses for utility payments. After payment is received, the approved plans are emailed to the applicant for them to print out.

Our goal is to provide seamless service from City Hall to anyone with a computer or mobile device. A person should be able to stand in their backyard and dream of a new back deck, draw that dream, fill out their application online, and send us the drawings, all on their smartphone. Complicated projects will be able to undergo multiple revisions without the time or expense of printing. Inspectors will be able to use tablets for field inspections, to allow them to document projects and notify contractors of results in real time.

Businesses and the community learned new skills in adapting to the reality of our world and these adaptations created new opportunities for some. Now, our community and our world are beginning to emerge with new hope, more knowledge about how our world works, and a resiliency to get back to what we do best – being productive, providing great services and opportunities, and being social.

The City worked together to meet the pandemic challenges head on and forged a better, stronger and more resilient system.

Court Commissioner Paul Nielsen will preside over regular calendars in 2021. Mr. Nielsen, formerly a senior criminal deputy with the Skagit County Prosecutor’s office, joined the District and Municipal Court judicial staff in January of this year.

The Anacortes Municipal Court

Community Court

The Anacortes Municipal Court is moving toward full re-opening, with careful safety measures in place to protect court participants. Judges Warren Gilbert, Dianne Goddard, and Jenifer Howson have worked closely with public health officials over the past year to operate the court safely while still conducting most court business. Municipal courts handle misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor offenses, such as DUI, simple assault, shoplifting, disorderly conduct, and trespass. In addition, individuals cited for traffic infractions appear in municipal court along with the cases involving dangerous dogs.

During the height of the pandemic the court could not safely conduct jury trials and the judges took that opportunity to develop new programs to improve the efficiency of the court and address the underlying causes of crimes associated with homelessness, substance abuse, mental illness, and poverty. Judge Jenifer Howson directed an effort to establish a community court, starting with a successful application for a federal grant. In community court individuals charged with petty crimes --shoplifting, theft, trespass, and disorderly conduct – can enter a diversion program and connect with treatment providers, homeless services, mental health services, employment services, and job training. Defendants with a history of violent crime are not eligible, and in addition to treatment, accountability in the form of restitution, community service, and letters of apology is part of the program. The court also offers a relicensing clinic to help individuals who have lost their drivers’ licenses due to unpaid fine by recalling fines from collection, setting up a reasonable payment plan, and allowing community service to satisfy a portion of the fines.

To conduct court safely over the past year, the court offered hearings via the virtual platform, Zoom, beginning last spring. The court began opening for limited in person hearings over the summer as case numbers declined, then faced a second temporary shutdown to in person hearings in December and January as cases spiked. Now that COVID-19 cases have declined and vaccination rates have increased, the court anticipates a full reopening, including the resumption of jury trials. All public health procedures will be strictly observed for jurors, and individuals who have conditions which could cause severe COVID-19 infections may be excused from jury duty.

The court provides disposable surgical masks and chairs are arranged six feet apart, the total number of people in the courtroom is limited, and the courtroom is disinfected with a specialized power sanitizer between sessions. Plexiglas shields provide protection for court personnel, and hand sanitizer is available in ample quantities.

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Commissions & Board

Volunteering with Heart The City of Anacortes relies on the generosity and enthusiasm of a variety of volunteers to thrive in its endeavors.

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The Parks & Recreation Department works with three citizen boards, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, Forest Advisory Board and the Arts Commission.

Their respective missions are to advise the Mayor, Council and City Staff on matters centered around the parks, forest lands and public art. It is important work, and while all three bodies are non-legislative, the influence of their advice can be far reaching and directly impact many of Anacortes’ most beloved active programs and natural resources.

“I believe it is important to give back…

Anacortes has a strong volunteer culture which supports a variety of good causes

explain, “That project was the first step to activating a park that has now seen further improvements (the Spray Pad and new restroom).”

“As our community changes, the need for different recreational activities will emerge and require support.”

City staff are grateful for the on-going work of JoAnn, Sarah and so many others.

If you are interested in learning how you can get involved, check out all the City’s Board and Commissions on the City of Anacortes website.

including City government,” states JoAnn York-Gilmore, who occupies the unique position of serving on both the Parks Commission and Forest Board. “As our community changes, the need for different recreational activities will emerge and require support.” JoAnn enjoys being a part of that process, a conduit for her community. “Community members can provide input directly to the City through its Commissions and Boards.”

JoAnn and Sarah share an enthusiasm for community, and use this energy to help build a civic vision that reflects the values of recreation and conservation that have been an essential part of life in Anacortes for a very long time. Giving back is a recurring theme in conversations between these two dedicated volunteers. Sarah explains, “I feel strongly about the power of place and how a community can come together to make a difference.”

Interested in serving your community?

Scan the QR Code to become a volunteer, or serve on a board.

Long time Parks Commission member Sarah Nichols offers, “My involvement with the Parks Commission is one small way to give back… and help ensure that what makes Anacortes exceptional continues to be so for current and future residents.”

Sarah Nichols

Sarah’s volunteerism with the Parks & Recreation Department began with a very high-profile project. “Back in 2007, a group of us had an idea for a new playground at Storvik Park. A year later and with the input of every child in the school district and a week’s worth of hard work from over 2000 community members, Our Town Our Park became a reality.” Sarah goes on to

JoAnn York-Gilmore

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Members of A-Shift with the Department’s newest medic unit, Medic 14, and ALS Engine 2911. Both apparatus respond from Fire Station 1.

AFD

New Medic Unit in Service The Anacortes Fire Department has placed a new medic unit in service. The process of acquiring the new medic unit, from writing specifications to final build, took approximately one year. This new unit was built and configured

by Braun Northwest of Chehalis, Washington.

It rides on a 2020 Ram 4500 4-wheel drive chassis.

The new unit is nearly identical in configuration to our two other first-out medic units built in 2016 and 2018, which have proven reliable and deliver a much more comfortable ride for our patients compared to the International truck chassis we have used in the past. Even though our winters are generally mild, four-wheel drive helps to provide response and transport with

By: Steve Monrad, Firefighter

safety and confidence when we do experience snowy winter weather.

The Fire Department deploys a medic unit from each of the City’s three fire stations.

Med 12 responds from Station 3 in the eastern portion of City limits, Med 14 from Station 1 - the Department’s downtown headquarters, and Med 16 from Station 2 near Skyline. Our Medic Units also provide Advanced Life Support (ALS) care and transport to a large area of western Skagit County, including Guemes Island, and may be called upon to respond throughout the County in times of high call volume or major incidents.

AFD Deploys ALS Engines Depending on the nature of assistance needed personnel may respond in a fire engine or medic unit. When crews leave the station in a fire engine, they leave their medic unit behind, out of service. In recent years, the department began equipping first-out fire engines with much of the same equipment carried on the medic units, creating “ALS Engines”.

This allows crews to respond to the scene of a medical incident and initiate care while a medic unit responds from another station.

Anacortes Fire Department By the Numbers In 2020, the Anacortes Fire Department responded to a total of 5,545 incidents.

This number includes 754 fire responses and 4,791 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) calls. The EMS calls account for 86% of the department’s emergency responses.

In 2010, the department was called to 2,623 incidents, 513 of which were fire responses, and 2,110 EMS calls. Since 2010, our total call volume increased 111%.

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Community Connections Salish Sea School The Salish Sea School is located in Anacortes.

Our mission is to cultivate a community of student leaders in marine conservation through experiential shore and boat-based programs.

These programs educate through place-based learning, empower through student research projects, and engage students to act for our marine ecosystems.

Our marine conservation leadership programs include: • Guardians of the Sea (boat-based/6th-12th graders) • Shoreline Exploration Adventures (shorebased/K-5th graders) • Student Leadership Team (6th-12th graders) • Student Training as Research Scientists (STaRS) research internship launching 2022 Learn more at TheSalishSeaSchool.org.

Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

Questions?

Email us at info@thesalishseaschool.org

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Skagit and Island Counties Council of the Blind Are you or a friend challenged by recent or progressive vision loss? Skagit and Island Counties Council of the Blind is available to share information and experience in learning to live with a change in vision.

Our purpose is to promote opportunity, equality, and independence for visually impaired and legally blind people. Virtual meetings are happening monthly from 1 to 3 pm, on the second Saturday of each month, via ZOOM. For information on future meetings or questions about vision loss, contact President Andy Arvidson at arvidsonandy@ gmail.com or call (425) 218-0190.

Anacortes Senior Activity Center Where seniors thrive The Senior Activity Center closed its doors over a year ago in response to COVID-19. Little did we know we would find ourselves in the same place a year later unable to provide in person activities and programs. Fortunately, staff has been able to continue helping seniors find services and assistance in a time of need. Many of our regular programs have successfully switched to online formats as we learn to adapt and thrive in this new virtual world.

All through this past year, Meals on Wheels has provided hot meals to a growing number of homebound and isolated seniors. The Center’s monthly newsletter has evolved to include local resources for seniors, such as food assistance and help in getting supplies. We have strengthened collaborative efforts with local organizations and our community.

Through the Center’s newsletter and Facebook page, seniors can find help in locating vaccinations and ideas on how to avoid pandemic-related scams, and much more.

While the Center has been closed to the public, several renovation projects have taken place. The Center has a new kitchen floor, fresh paint on all interior walls, and best of all, a beautiful new metal roof !

Not long after the Center closed its doors, the Center’s long-time Administrator, Sally Hill, retired.

Sally left at the end of June in 2020, and she is greatly missed! Lea DeVere, the Center’s other City staff member, continues to wear many hats and is adapting Center programs to the new pandemic environment.

Now that COVID-19 vaccinations are becoming more widely available, we are hopeful that the Center can slowly begin a return to normal. We may soon be able to offer some limited in-person, by appointment programs, with safety protocols in place to keep participants healthy and safe.

If you have any questions about this past year or what might happen as 2021 progresses, give Lea DeVere a call at (360) 293-7473 or email her at lindad@cityofanacortes.org. Stay well and be safe!

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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

ANACORTES COMMUNITY ENERGY FAIR September 11, 2021 Depot Arts Center 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

CHANGE YOUR FURNACE FILTER A furnace filter that is clogged with dust, pet dander, and other particles will cause your furnace to work harder because of decreased airflow. To work harder, this means it is using more energy to operate. By changing the filter every 3 months, you will help reduce your home’s heating costs.

CHANGE CEILING FAN DIRECTION In the winter, ceiling fans need to spin clockwise on low speed. This creates an updraft that helps move warm air trapped near the ceiling back out and around the room.

Recirculating the warm air will help your heating unit run less often, meaning you could save roughly 15 percent on your heating costs.

THERMOSTAT AT OR BELOW 68 Regulating the temperature in your home is important and can save you money. Turning back your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours a day to save up to 10% on heating costs.

If you set your temperature to 68 degrees while at home and lower the temperature before going to bed, your HVAC system will have less work to do, resulting in lower energy consumption.

The City of Anacortes is now purchasing 100% renewable energy from the Skookumchuck Wind Facility for all 77 electric meters through PSE’s Green Direct Program.

CLOSE THAT FIREPLACE FLUE WHEN NOT IN USE Fall and winter fires in the fireplace are warm, cozy and just plain wonderful, but an open flue damper draws warm air out of your house 24-hours a day. Your system will have to work overtime to heat up the house if a flue is left open.

CLEAN WARM AIR REGISTERS AND BASEBOARD HEATERS Make sure that carpeting, furniture, or draperies are not blocking them. Putting furniture over registers, or in front of radiators blocks the amount of heat that register/radiator can emit into the room, thus causing your system to run longer cycles, and cost you more money to operate.

CHECK FOR CRACKS, LEAKS, AND DRAFTS Air leakage occurs because of cracks or gaps in in windows, doors and walls and can lead to higher monthly energy rates because it lets heat escape and cold air enter. Before it gets too cold, it’s important to check all your doors and windows for air leakage that could keep your heater running overtime.

For more information on these ENERGY SAVING TIPS and others go to:

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