DES TIN ATION 2017-2018
SUPPLEMENT OF THE VASHON-MAURY ISLAND BEACHCOMBER
Vashon Thriftway Supermarket
Bar Self Service SaladMeats In- House Smoked rritos Mission-Style Bu ndwiches Made-to-Order Salls Beef Burgers 1/2 lb. Painted Hi ed Sandwiches Italian Panini Grill Bar Hot Soup & Olive li Section Great Grab n’ Go De Cheeses Over 10 0 Specialtyt 8:00 am - 9:30 am Serving Breakfas Daily Lunch r Visit us to seSpe ecouial s er nn Di d an ating Area Se ide ts Seasonal Ou
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No Trip to Vashon is Complete Without Visiting Our Store We Have Everything You Need! Fresh Salad Bar • Spirits & Fresh Tap Beer to Go Great Selection of Beer & Wine • Fresh Meat & Seafood Bakery • Espresso & Gelato • Dairy • Floral • DVD XPress Natural & Organic Groceries • Organic Produce • Bulk Foods Check our website for Weekly Specials! Open 8 am to 9 pm
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DESTINATION VASHON
3
Windermere Vashon
If Seattle were San Francisco, Vashon would be Marin... only better...
no bridge! t 7BTIPO*TMBOEFSTQFUJUJPO,JOH$PVOUZUPCF[POFESVSBM3BOEPNTVCEJWJTJPOPGQSPQFSUZDFBTFTJO 3FTVMU"SVSBMQBSBEJTFNJOVUFTGSPN4FBUUMF NJOVUFTGSPN4FB5BD*OUFSOBUJPOBM"JSQPSU t 5XPIVOESFEPòJTMBOETUVEFOUTUSBWFMEBJMZUPBUUFOEPVSFYDFMMFOUTDIPPMT t .FEJBOFEVDBUJPOBMMFWFMPGSFTJEFOUTBZFBSCFZPOEB#BDIFMPST%FHSFF t 7BTIPO.BVSZIBTUIFIJHIFTUMFWFMPGIPNFPXOFSTIJQJO,JOH$PVOUZ If you have questions or want more information about this remarkable place, call me. For decades I have lived and brokered real estate on Vashon-Maury! I understand Vashon and ZLOOKHOS\RX¿QG\RXURZQSODFHRQWKLVLG\OOLFLVODQG
Beth de Groen CRS, GRI
www.BethdeGroenVashon.com bethd@windermere.com
(206) 463-9148 x206
TABLE OF CONTENTS
11
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
27
12 Artist profile: The La Playa portrait 13 Art galleries 17 Garden tour
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
67 Island farm stands
30 Vashon’s trail network
49 Strawberry Festival
68 Island wineries
34 Point Robinson lighthouse
50 Preserving Vashon’s Japanese heritage
70 Local beer, cider & spirits
38 Cycling
24 Vashon Theatre
39 E-bike Vashon
25 Mostly True Vashon Tours
66 FOOD & DRINK
48 Island festivals
37 Learn to Sail
21 Summer events
FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN
28 Wildlife on Vashon
35 Beaches
20 Opera and theater
47
44 Children’s activities
52 Pet-friendly Vashon 54 Vashon Sheepdog Classic
72 Caffeine fix 74 Restaurants & places to eat
55 Places to stay 61 Weddings on Vashon
Est 1979
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
5
Welcome to Vashon www.WindermereVashon.com Knowledgeable ¸ Innovative ¸ Responsive ¸ Leaders
Helping you live in your dreams
Beth de Groen
Dick Bianchi
Linda Bianchi
Dan Brandt
Mary Margaret
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Briggs
Let us at Th The Beachcomber h b be b the h first f to welcome l you to Vashon, our island that is off the beaten path. You do have to take a boat to get here. So in that way, this little island in central Puget Sound truly is a destination — a place one visits intentionally, not en route to somewhere else. It offers much to those who choose to hop on a ferry and visit. Consider long walks on the beach, a hike through a quiet forest, excursions to farm stands where fresh produce abounds or a meal at one of the many acclaimed restaurants. But despite its bucolic reputation, Vashon is also a happening place. On the first Friday of every month, the town comes alive with art lovers who peruse the galleries and shops. Live music can be found every weekend. Community theater, a local opera company and chorale give visitors an intimate, insider’s take on Vashon life. Destination Vashon is The Beachcomber’s annual guide to island life. It includes restaurant listings, directions to Vashon’s best beaches and hiking areas, descriptions of evening activities and feature stories that illuminate some of the truly special aspects of island life. We hope you find it helpful as you explore this fine place. And we wish you a wonderful stay. ANNELI FOGT, EDITOR
Connie Cunningham
Cheryl Dalton
Nancy Davidson
Rose Edgecombe
Denise Katz
Dale Korenek
Kathleen Rindge
Mike Schosboek
Destination Vashon is a publication of the
Publisher
Writers
Daralyn Anderson
Anneli Fogt
Anneli Fogt, Susan Riemer, Sarah Low, Juli GoetzMorser, Tom Dean, Bianca Perla, Bruce Haulman
Marketing
Photographers
Daralyn Anderson, Patsy Seaman, Carrie Van Buren
Anneli Fogt, Kent Phelan, Ray Pfortner, Juli GoetzMorser, Susan Riemer
Editor
Sarah Schosboek
Mike Shigley
Sophia Stendahl
Deborah Teagardin
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Design & Production Nance Scott, Dennis Clouse
Cover design by Nance Scott Cover Photos: Cindy Koch, Ray Pfortner and Peter Murray
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WELCOME
©2017 Sound Publishing • www.vashonbeachcomber.com 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Coming Home: How a radio interview brought a family to Vashon BY ANNELI FOGT BEACHCOMBER EDITOR
Islander Kay Longhi and her twin sister were only 6 years old when they moved to Vashon from Chicago in the 1950s, but Longhi, now in her 60s and still living on Vashon, can vividly recall the move and the events leading up to it. The decision to leave the Midwest was made by Longhi’s mother, Patricia Longhi, who Kay said was tired of living in cities and longed for the same kind of authenticity she witnessed on childhood vacations to a farm in Maine. Patricia found that opportunity in a 1954 radio interview with famous island author Betty MacDonald, who wrote humorous autobiographical tales such as “The Egg and I.� “Arthur Godfrey interviewed Betty MacDonald on his radio program. She talked about her book ‘Onions in the Stew,’ and it intrigued Mother,� Kay Long-
Courtesy Photo
Kay Longhi’s parents, Francis and Patricia Longhi, at their north-end home in the 1960s.
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INTRODUCTION
7
hi said. “When Daddy came home, she announced farther west, but ended at a motel on Seattle’s Aurora Avenue. Kay and her family stayed there a week that we were moving to Vashon.” while her father found a job. Kay called the early 1950s the “go-go time,” as the Shortly after, the Longhi family moved to West interstate system was being built and car culture Seattle. was catching on. So, a couple months after hearing “A tiny house clinging to the the interview, the family packed hillside” is how Longhi recalled that up their canary, dog and belong“Because I was raised ings — Kay said her mother was a first home. here, I never lacked a “great animal lover” — and drove She and her sister started first sense of home. The com- grade in West Seattle before the the more than 2,000 cross-counmunity here has been my family moved to a home on Cowan try miles to Washington. go-to place both mentally Road at the north end of Vashon the “I remember crossing the border into Washington and following year, 1955. Her mother and remember standing in the back fell in love with the island and never physically. There’s a seat — those were the days looked back. real sense of community where you could do that, no seat “We came to this island, which and home I’ve never belts — and Dad stops the car in was secluded, out of the big city,” felt anywhere else.” Spokane and says, ‘We’re here,’” Longhi said. “We could see the she recalled. “I just remember mountains, as well as the sound. thinking, ‘We came all the way for She would walk all over Vashon and this?’ Spokane was not much to look at and didn’t loved being surrounded by water. She was very, very quite meet the expectations I had.” happy.” The family’s journey obviously had to go a little The home was also not far from author MacDon-
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INTRODUCTION
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
ald’s home, although Kay says her mother did not find that out until after she bought the home. “I don’t know how she knew the house (Betty MacDonald’s) was close … but she was aware of it,” Kay Longhi said. And while her mother never met MacDonald, she did meet her sister, Mary Bard. Patricia Longhi went on to live in that same northend home for 56 years. She moved out in 2011, three years before her death at the age of 91. “Mother was very much a loner in her heart. She liked solitude and wanted to be in the rugged, great outdoors,” Kay Longhi said before explaining that her mother grew up in an affluent family in New York City and was expected to become a socialite. “She abhorred the life,” Longhi said. “She loved the summers she spent on the coast of Maine. They always went to Laudholm Farm — a working farm with outbuildings that were rented out in the summer.” It was a lifestyle similar to that of the farm that Patricia Longhi found on Vashon, and that authenticity and community is what has kept Kay Longhi
here. Longhi attended college in Portland, moved to Seattle, then moved to North Carolina and Mobile, Alabama, but because her mother was here, she followed what was happening on the island and would always come visit. “Because I was raised here, I never lacked a sense of home,” she said. “The community here has been my go-to place both mentally and physically. I’ve always been very centered. There’s a real sense of community and home I’ve never felt anywhere else.” Longhi moved back to Seattle in 1997. By 2008, her mother was in her 80s and suffering from dementia, and Kay moved into a small cabin on her mother’s property to take care of her. Her mother was eventually moved to a memory care home in 2011 and died in 2014, but her dream of rural living in the north-end home continues to this day, as her great-grandchildren are growing up in the same house. “My sister’s child, so my niece and her family, live there,” Longhi said. “Houses don’t come up for sale on Vashon because one generation leaves and another comes in.”
Prepare To Fall In Love. It can happen the minute you drive off the ferry and onto this beautiful island. Something stirs your heart and soul with the feeling, this is where I belong. It must be love! It happen to me, and I’m still head over heels for Vashon. Let me share my experience, my connections and my knowledge with you. “Thank you Susan for being with us every step of the way. You were so much more than a realtor for us.” – M & J
CARING • COMMIT TED • CONNEC TED
SUSAN LOFLAND, REALTOR © GRI, SRES, ASP
(206) 999-6470 susanlofland@johnlscott.com
JOHN L SCOTT VASHON 13401 VASHON HIGHWAY SW VASHON, WA 98070 WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
INTRODUCTION
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Helpful information
Maxwell Family Medicine at 463-1480 and Fern Cove Natural Medicine at 693-4143. There are no 24-hour clinics.
While exploring all that Vashon has to offer, there are a few things you should keep in mind, such as, despite its proximity to Seattle, Vashon is a world apart. The two grocery stores close early — Thriftway at 9 p.m. and Vashon Market IGA at 10 p.m. The island’s bus service is limited, particularly on Sundays. Here are a few other helpful bits of information. Note: The only area code on the island is 206.
Post offices
Vashon Island Fire & Rescue 10020 SW Bank Rd 463-2405 | Emergency: 911 VIFR handles major emergencies on the island and works with the ferries and local medical helicopters.
King County Sheriff’s Office 10011 SW Bank Rd. 477-6655 | Emergency: 911 The sheriff’s station is located at King County’s Rural Services Center on Bank Road, across from the fire station.
Medical Clinics Vashon’s primary health clinic is operated by Neighborcare Health and is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and is closed Sunday. The clinic can be reached by calling 463-3671. There are also a few small, independently owned offices. Reach Vashon Natural Medicine at 463-4778;
Vashon has two. The downtown office is located on SW 178th Street, across the street from the Vashon Market IGA. Another is in Burton on Vashon Highway and has limited hours.
Whales / Marine Life Support marine mammal research by promptly calling the Vashon Hydrophone Project at 463-9041 if you spot a whale. VHP also handles calls about injured, potentially stranded or dead marine mammals.
Tides For information on tides on Vashon, visit saltwatertides.com/pickpred.html, go to “Washington” and select “Point Vashon” or “Tahlequah.” For red tide information, call (800) 562-5632.
Public library Located in Vashon town at 17210 Vashon Hwy. SW, right by Ober Park. Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Chamber of Commerce The chamber is a fount of information about island activities and events. Visit the office at 17141 Vashon Hwy. SW, across the street from Ober Park and right next to The Beachcomber’s office. Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Find your Home at www.ConnieSorensen.com
Connie Sorensen
206-819-7669
Island Living Buyer Services Seller Services Market Trends
Windermere Real Estate Wall St. Inc.
Island Living is Closer Than You Think 10
HELPFUL INFORMATION
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
SEE PAGES 11-26 WWW VASHONBEACHCOMBER COM WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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Local artist paints portraits with words BY JULI GOETZ MORSER BEACHCOMBER ARTS EDITOR
Waiting in the ferry line at the north end of Vashon is part and parcel of island life. It can also be maddening. Yet on the east side of the Port of Vashon building, hidden from the road by towering shrubs, is a spectacle waiting to alleviate the tedium of bogged-down travel: A mural, painted by island artist and author Jesse Johnson, faces out toward the water. Walk up close and the black squiggles on a sea-blue background become sentences fragmented by the shape they form. Step back, and instantly the characters coalesce into a two-story-tall portrait of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. Is it art? Is it writing? Ask Johnson and he’ll say it’s a combination of writing, literary scholarship and the visual arts — all of his interests coming together at the same time. But it’s not something he ever expected to do. The idea — to create portraits out of text — came to him in 2015, after he’d finished writing his young adult novel, “Yearbook.” Painting the mural came later, about a year and a half after Johnson had completed his first text portrait series printed on paper. Johnson, who grew up on Vashon, spent a year abroad in Chile and completed his PhD in English at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He wrote his dissertation on poetry and portraiture, so there was fertile ground for his vision to grow. How to manifest it then became the challenge. He decided to create 12 series of 12 poets each and turned for help to his friend, graphic designer and owner of Vashon’s Hinge Gallery Brent Houston, who steered him toward Adobe Illustrator. Each portrait started with Johnson dropping a photograph of a poet into the computer program and converting it to black and white. Next, Johnson wrote the text, which is no small feat — poet Wallace Stevens’ portrait required 10,000 words, the length of a novella and Emily Dickinson’s portrait absorbed 4,000 words, about the size of a short story. Johnson’s first series of 12 portraits constitute a novel, with 80,000 words. After filling the image with words, Johnson started to paint. “I call it ‘painting’ with tongue in cheek,” he said. “That’s where the rubber hits the road because that’s when the image starts to influence the writing. The space is there, and I have to fill it exactly.” Inside the Port of Vashon building that features the Neruda portrait on hnns portraits hang on the walls of an exhibition space he its exterior, Johnson’s wit wi iittthh hi his mot moth mo m thher ther er,r, HHi Hit itittaa von Mende, a well-known Northwest island sharess w with his mother, Hita painte ntte ter. er. Johnson Johnsson onn points ppoi o ts to oint to a long long lo onng narrow section in his original, smaller painter. Neruda NNe eruda por pportrait. po orrttra raittt. The TThhhe shape sha shap ssh h p looks ha look looks like llik ik the country of Chile. Into that formaik ttion, tion ion, o , Johnson hnnssooonn poured hn ppooured ure ur red eedd Neruda’s Neruda’ NNeru eruda s writ tiinnng about the Chilean foothills, demonwriting strating st str t ating titing ng “how hoow ho w shape shhap ape influences iinnfflue luenc uen ue ence en nnces es language.” es langu langguuaa In poet Djuna Barnes’ portrait, the th hee text teex ttex exxtt that thatt ffo th for forms orrms mss hhe her eerr m mouth outh th combin comb ccombines ombinnne Johnson’s writing with her words sett in in italics: itiita ttaaliciccs:ss:: “‘Someone ““‘S ‘SSSo Som ome oomeone om meeeooonne hha has as to ttoldd me that thha h I have a peculiar habit of noticing mou uth uth uths,’” ths h , ” you y u (referring yo (r(ref efe ferring rriing rr ng to to BBa Barn arnes) es) w r in an essay on Alfred Stieglitz mouths,’” Barnes) wrote, ffrfrom om m 1917 1917 (his (his wa was aass tthe thhe m mo mou mout mouth oout ut in qu ut u ue question). I have.” NNot all Not a off the thhee w th writing wr rittitinngg quote qquotes es the th subjects he is working with, though, or th vveenn ssc scho cho holarly. ho la y So S mee iss a ddescription Some des is even scholarly. of what Johnson sees or the music i he hears as he writes. “Part of the fun,” he said, “is that historically, a portrait is a kind of 12
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Juli Goetz Morser/Staff Photo
Island artist Jesse Johnson with his painting of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda.
monument, a memorialization, so I poke fun at that by putting trivial, temporary-seeming things in the portrait. It places them in space and reality and history.” In Neruda’s case, that place is a wall on Vashon that measures nearly 13 feet by 19 feet. Johnson chose Neruda for the mural because he wrote his college thesis on the poet and translated his poetry. Neruda is also associated with the sea. He wrote facing it, enamored with the blue water. Johnson, likewise, wrote upstairs in the Port of Vashon building, facing the water of Puget Sound. “There’s a Neruda thing going on with this building,” Johnson said with a laugh, “and he has a Vashon vibe about him — being into the natural world, finding beauty in everyday objects. He was a great poet of romantic love. Vashon has a certain romance for those of us who live here.” Talking with Johnson, he seems to savor discovering subtle links, the unexpected associations that emerge unbidden, like the rather prescient passage he wrote into Neruda’s portrait months before he chose to paint the mural: “And now, Don Pablo, you are an icon, a legend, of a kind, a face on the wall. Someone to whom we can turn in the dark of the night.” As for the final word on his art, Johnson said it’s about simplifying the world. “I like the negative space as much as anything,” he said. “This is like 21st century art, where the computer is actually making the image, where the computer is the collaborator. That interests me. Portraits are a way to show off the artist’s technical craftsmanship, and I jump over all that. We know how to make images, we’ve been doing it a long time, so let the computer do that. I’ll do what I do well, which is to write and conceptualize.” 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
A plethora of talent awaits at art galleries ver the years, Vashon has become a mecca for artists drawn to its alchemy of natural beauty, studio spaces, a strong artist community and supporters of the arts. Painters, sculptors, photographers, potters, fiber artists and more live and work on the island, while galleries and art shops exhibit the work of talented local and regional artists. As for where to look for art? Here are a few suggestions:
O
Hastings-Cone Gallery 17817 Vashon Hwy SW The Hastings-Cone Gallery, owned by Megan Hastings and Adam Cone, shows an eclectic mix of international and local fine art and hosts live musical acts. The gallery is located next to Snapdragon, a bakery and café also owned and run by Hastings and Cone. See vashonsnapdragon.com.
Heron’s Nest Gallery 17600 Vashon Hwy SW Heron’s Nest Gallery is operated by Vashon Center for the Arts, a non-profit organization that supports Vashon artists and arts programs. The Heron’s Nest showcases fine art and handcrafted items by more than 100 island artists. See vashoncenterforthearts.org/gallery/herons-nest.
Hinge Gallery 9905 SW 174th St. This gallery features monthly exhibitions of contemporary, local and regional artists along with art books, letterpress cards, hand-printed shirts, prints, framing and more. See hingegallery.com.
WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
Juli Goetz Morser/Staff Photo
Vashon Center for the Arts Executive Director Susan Warner stands in the Katherine L. White Hall’s Koch Gallery surrounded by art by Leo Adams and Mark Bentley.
Raven’s Nest 17508 Vashon Hwy SW Raven’s Nest showcases Northwest Coast Native art, much of it created by Vashon resident and Tlingit Master Carver Israel Shotridge. It also offers a variety of Native-designed art cards, mugs, scarves, apparel, books and more. See shotridge.myshopify.com/pages/vashon-island.
SAW 9922 SW Bank Road Starving Artist Works, or SAW, showcases art by 110 local artists. The work ranges from photography, jewelry, pottery and scarves to hand-painted tiles and more. A door connects SAW and Café Luna, where artwork is exhibited on the café walls each month. Find SAW and Café Luna on Facebook.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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Two Wall Gallery
Vashon Center for the Arts’ Koch Gallery
17600 Vashon Hwy SW The spacious corridor between Herban Bloom and Heron’s Nest Gallery doubles as a community art space that often exhibits paintings, photography and more. Locals and community groups hold shows throughout the year, and acclaimed local photographer Ray Pfortner and his photography students exhibit regularly. Two Wall Gallery is managed by Heron’s Nest Gallery.
19600 Vashon Hwy SW
VALISE Gallery
17331 Vashon Hwy SW
17633 Vashon Hwy SW This collective, located in the heart of town, shows a provocative mix of art, often with a humorous, ironic or activist bent. Sometimes fine art adorns the walls, other times mind-bending installations. See valisegallery.com.
Located in the Vashon Center for the Arts building, about two miles south of town, the Koch Gallery hosts shows by island and regional artists every month. From two or three artists to group shows and solo exhibits, the gallery is also a lively scene on First Friday Gallery Cruise night. See vashoncenterforthearts.org.
Vashon Intuitive Arts Vashon Intuitive Arts (VIA) carries items by island artists including art, jewelry, crystals, natural skin care products and other handmade goods. VIA is a member-owned center that promotes alternative healing and learning. See vashonintuitivearts.com.
First Friday Gallery Cruise On the first Friday of every
month, when galleries and other businesses open new art exhibits, Vashon’s sidewalks fill with locals and visitors stopping to see new artwork and to socialize. Vashon’s vibrant arts scene includes many spots — restaurants, shops, banks and even a senior center and senior care facility that show artwork. Many places offer artist receptions, live music and snacks. The fun usually runs from 6 to 9 p.m. See The Beachcomber every month for details.
It’s time for a new look.
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463-9942
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Studio tour offers glimpse into artist workshops Vashon’s Art Studio Tour started over 25 years ago to help the island’s small pottery community sell its wares. As the arts community has grown over the years, the tour has expanded to include all artists and developed into a beloved twice-yearly tradition. The tour is typically held the first two weekends in May and December, when over 100 artists open their studio doors, inviting the public to come in, look around and, if they wish to do so, purchase art directly from the artist. Visitors can step into a glass-blowing studio and watch a veteran glass-blower at work, a yurt on a small working farm where delicate Ukrainian eggs are painted, a cottage where a potter works at her wheel and a home where a celebrated jeweler sells intricate silver bells. Vashon’s prodigious arts community produces an array of artwork in various media including paintings, textiles, pottery, jewelry, blown glass, candles, tiles, garden art and painted furniture. The tour is also a wonderful way to see the island. Many of the
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Courtesy Photos
Top: Island artist Stephanie Harlan’s birds on display at Fletcher Studio during the May 2017 studio tour. Left: Gale Luire’s work was also displayed at the May 2017 tour.
studios are tucked in the woods or perched above the water in intimate, private settings. Each stop along the way is like entering another world.
The spring Art Studio Tour was held in early May. The holiday Art Studio Tour will take place the weekends of Dec. 2-3 and 9-10. A detailed map of the tour is available at island businesses or can be downloaded prior to the event. See VashonIslandArtStudioTour.com to learn more or to download the map.
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The Mostly True VASHON ISLAND < WASHINGTON
Chris Austin, Tour Guide
The Mostly True
Vashon Tours Where Comedy and History Collide! Come experience the rural beauty that is Vashon Island while learning about its unique past. With stories from antiquity to yesterday’s news, your guide will have you in stitches with a lively and informative tour. In addition to local lore and sites, The Mostly True Vashon Tours include stops for tastings, shopping at local farm stands, or a bite at one of our fine eateries. It’s ideal fun for weddings, reunions, corporate retreats, or anyone looking for some entertainment and relaxation.
“If you like history with a side of humor, Chris Austin’s Mostly True Vashon Tours is a bus ride you don’t want to miss.” – Eric Riddle, King 5 Evening News magazine
…I thought I knew most of the detailed history of Vashon. However, I was pleasantly surprised to learn so much more as we traveled the Island. And, the icing on top of cake was Chris’s absolutely hilarious presentation. His comedic gift made the entire trip a grand tour! - Verna Everitt
Visit VashonTours.com for tour and ticket information.
Get inspired: Explore best of island gardens during summer tour By EMILY BROWNE Vashon Center for the Arts marketing director
For more than 20 years, Vashon’s arts organization has hosted an island garden tour to showcase some of the island’s most creative and beautiful gardens. After a one-year hiatus in order to celebrate the opening of the arts center’s new $20 million Katherine L White Hall, the Vashon Center for the Arts garden tour returns this June with four gardens, one working farm and the Mukai Farm and Garden — a piece of history from the island’s strawberry-growing days in the early-to-mid 20th century — being showcased. The gardens will include works by local and regional artists, as well as host scheduled speakers and musicians. Courtesy Photos
Blue Moon Farm: Kevin & Eadwynne Hoffberg This stop is a working farm with more than 100 fruit trees, a labyrinth maze of lavender, bees, chickens, a park-like grove and pond. The farm is named Blue Moon because the deed was signed over on the August blue moon in 2012, starting this journey for the Hoffbergs. At that point, the renovations were immense — the property had been divided, and many structures were overgrown. The owners have worked hard to make this land a working,
Top: Jonathan and Lisa Morse’s 2-acre west side retreat of a garden. Right: Shelley and Sam Williams’ Burton Loop garden, complete with waterfront views, a cozy fireplace and chandelier.
beautiful, functional farm. The fields are cropped with buckwheat, rye, oats, fava beans, vetch and radishes to build the tilth, as well as quinoa, flax and lots of sunflowers.
Evening with artist collective & gallery 17633 Vashon Highway SW, Vashon 98070 www.valisegallery.org
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ART-N-WINE Serving Vashon-Maury Island ART-N-WINE.COM
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New farming techniques are experimented with. Straw bale beds growing tomatoes, peppers, melons, cucumbers, carrots and potatoes will be planted in the hoop house and outdoors at the time of the tour. A trellised orchard of 75 apple trees is in its second year and will be full of leaves and young fruit. A rose garden and lavender labyrinth add some beautiful color to other areas of the property.
North Side Residence: Julie King & Lisa Caldwell This property slopes toward the north with a magnificent view of the sound. The garden, which feels both stately and casual, has been described by King as “salvage chic.” The home, a 1922 craftsman-style residence, sits regally on the slope overlooking the sound, but with a soft, friend-
ly paint color, many plants softening its edges, an old-feeling shed in the yard and an abundance of artwork outdoors, the property has an air of whimsy about it. Edged by a beautifully and artfully trimmed laurel hedge, the woodworking cabin (shed) and large wisteria trellis are decorative highlights. Other features include a mature kiwi vine on a small trellis as an entrance to the lower deck, large plum tree, fruit plants (cherry, apple, grape, blueberry, strawberry, raspberry), rosemary and other herbs. It is a friendly and approachable garden, making cares fly away as if you are entering a sanctuary.
Fern Cove Cottage: Jonathan and Lisa Morse Nestled on the shores of Fern Cove, the Morse garden weaves its way through a
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2-acre property surrounded by forests of tall Douglas fir, red alder and western red cedar. Initially established in 1998, the garden of Jonathan Morse is a labor of love which has transformed the property that has been a part of his family for three generations. Taking cues from materials found on site, Jonathan has created a series of gateways and unique garden environs throughout the site. From an alpine garden filled with a blanket of succulents to a working potager surrounded by the abundantly colorful perennial borders, every corner of the garden is individually attentive to the specific condition the site dictates. A deep, narrow ravine filled by a seasonal stream winds its way from end to end of the property, dissecting the land into individual spaces. Most recently, a 2014 windstorm brought down a stand of cedar and fir that had arisen from a nurse log. The chaos of the storm has given opportunity to develop a unique forest-garden experience. A new path leads you through and underneath the
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arch of wind-fallen cedars and firs that have been left in place to nurse future generations of native trees. The Morse gardens are a collection of botanical treasures, from specimen trees to collections of hellebores, epimedium and podophyllum.
Burton Loop Garden: Shelley and Sam Williams This home was on the garden tour many years ago in its early incarnation. Now under new owners, it is again featured. The Williams inherited the garden’s great bones and mature plant stock, but set about making it their own. While respecting the rare species, they relocated almost 300 plants and added plantings to create a somewhat more tailored display. One of the smallest lots on the tour, it is just over 1 acre, and nine varieties of fruit trees are integrated into the landscape. Berries also reside and blend into this waterfront property. A glass greenhouse and separate vegetable beds are part of the garden, which is friendly to mason bees and other pollinators.
Mukai Farm Vashon is home to one of the most unique Landmarked and National Register of Historic Places sites in the nation. The Mukai House and Garden, built in 1926, is a synthesis of two cultural influences: the desire of Japanese immigrants to be American and their desire to retain their culture. The Mukai House is a traditional 1920s-era Craftsmanstyle home fronted by a mowed lawn, traditional American
garden plantings and a concrete sidewalk that leads to the house. B.D. Mukai wanted very much to live an American lifestyle, and his desire to be American is reflected in the Mukai House. Immediately next to this traditional American house and garden is the Mukai garden, a wonderful Japanese stroll garden bordered by cherry trees. The garden was created by B.D. Mukai’s wife, Kuni Mukai, and built by her husband and son. It is a synthesis of Japanese and American influences. The Mukai House and Garden along with the neighboring Mukai Fruit Barreling Plant became a King County Landmark in 1993. The next year, the house and garden were placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Vashon Center for the Arts Garden Tour The tour will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 24 and 25. Tickets are available at vashoncenterforthearts.org and at Vashon Center for the Arts at 19600 Vashon Highway SW. Tickets are $30.
Sunset garden party A celebration and fundraiser with food and live music will take place at an island home from 6 p.m. to moonlight Friday, June 23. Tickets are $200 and are available at vashoncenterforthearts.org and at Vashon Center for the Arts.
It’s all about Community!
My Vashon community is a sum of all things precious to me: relatives, friends, neighbors, coworkers and furry four-legged critters. In my Island-biased opinion, there is no better place to build and nurture community than Vashon.
Allow me to help you find your own community on Vashon!
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Theater and opera and drama, oh my! Drama Dock Celebrating 40 years of theatrical productions, Drama Dock is an island institution. The community theater company showcases Vashon’s remarkable thespians with full seasons of plays and musicals. Some of the shows recently produced by the nonprofit include the smash Broadway musical “Chicago” and two homegrown hits: “Fly Me to the Moon,” an original song and dance review of Frank Sinatra tunes, conceived and choreographed by islander Elise Ericksen and “The Reinvention of Albert Paugh,” based on island author Jean Davies Okimoto’s eponymous novel set on Vashon. Drama Dock will present the comedy rock musical “Little Shop of Horrors” July 27 - 30, at Vashon Center for the Arts’ Kay White Hall. See dramadock.org for details about current and upcoming productions. Courtesy Photo
Drama Dock performs “Chicago” in June 2016.
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Vashon Opera Thanks to a pair of professional opera singers who relocated to the island from New York City, Vashon Opera became a reality in 2008. The company has drawn sellout crowds and considerable praise. Jennifer and Andrew Krikawa, the founding Courtesy Photo couple, have produced over a dozen full-scale Vashon Opera’s “Dialogues of the Carmelites.” operas, including “La Boheme,” “Madama Butterfly” and “Don Giovanni.” The all-volunteer company has been an effort of more than 90 Vashon community members who donate their time and talents to create top-notch opera. The company brings up-and-coming singers, well-known Northwest and national performers, and talented orchestral musicians to the stage at Vashon Center for the Arts. Season nine of the Vashon Opera opens in September with Gaetano Donizetti’s “Lucia di Mallermoor,” one of opera’s greatest dramas. In May of 2018, Vashon Opera will present “The Magic Flute,” Mozart’s timeless composition of beauty, ceremony and comic flair. See vashonopera.org for show and ticket information. 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Summer events at Vashon Center for the Arts June 2017 “Sleeping Beauty”: Vashon Center for the Arts’ Center for Dance will present “Sleeping Beauty” at 7 p.m. Friday, June 2; 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, June 3; and 1 p.m. Sunday, June 4. All performances will be held in the Kay White Hall at 19600 Vashon Hwy. “Peter Pan Jr.”: Vashon Center for the Arts’ (VCA) musical theater students will perform “Peter Pan Jr.” at 7 p.m. Friday, June 9; 2 p.m. Saturday, June 10; and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the Kay White Hall.
Arts at 7 p.m. Friday, July 14. The concert is sponsored by John L. Scott Vashon.
“Little Shop of Horrors”: Vashon’s Drama Dock will perform the classic musical July 27, 28, 29 and 30 at the Kay White Hall. Check vashoncenterforthearts.org closer to the performance dates for showtimes.
August 2017 “The Lost Folio”: Seattle’s Jet
ShakesKIDS! will perform this Shakespeare play at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Kay White Hall.
City Improv will perform this improvised version of Shakespeare’s works, where the audience participates to add plot devices, character flaws and even play roles, at the Kay White Hall Saturday, Aug. 5. See vashoncenterforthearts. org closer to the performance date for show time.
July 2017
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ”:
Cowboy Junkies: The Cana-
The classic teen comedy will be shown for free at sunset (8:30 p.m.) Saturday, Aug. 12, in the VCA parking lot at 19600 Vashon Hwy.
“A Winter’s Tale”: Vashon’s
dian alternative country/ blues/folk rock band will play an outdoor concert at the Vashon Center for the
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Bruce Morser Photos
nd artist and illustrator Bruce Morser (inset) created a huge 15-by-21-foot installation to document the history of Vashon’s Center — the intersection of Vashon Highway and metery Road. It is on display at the Vashon Center for the Arts’ Katherine L White Hall, which sits at the southeast corner of the intersection.
An artful homage to island history
JULI GOETZ-MORSER
hon Beachcomber Arts Editor
Change is all around us all the time, ough rarely do we stop to consider its jectory from a single central point. Yet, eight months of late 2016 and early 17, that’s exactly what island artist, illustor and — full disclosure — my husnd, Bruce Morser, did in his studio. The cus of his attention was to illuminate the er-changing history of Island Center — hich now includes Vashon Center for the ts’ (VCA) new performing arts center, e Katherine L White Hall. His large-scale installation was unveiled
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in March 2017. But the project arose during the permitting process for the new arts building that opened in April 2016, when King County requested VCA honor the original structures and history of the intersection. Morser, who spent six years as a board member on the VCA building committee, was asked to design a plan to fulfill the county’s requirements. He agreed, and island art patrons Tracy and Janet Bishop stepped up to fund the project. Yet, the initial suggestion of creating a simple kiosk filled with historical photographs and drawings soon took on a larger dimension — both physically and meta-
phorically — as Morser delved ever deeper into the history of Center and the island. “I spent a bunch of time thinking about it, trying to catch a feeling of what the piece might do,” Morser said. “I spoke with old islanders I knew, who introduced me to others I didn’t know. As the connections grew, so did the project. I realized that paying homage to the old pet store at the southeast corner of the intersection was too small a way of looking at it. The more I looked into it, the more I realized the area has been used by all types of people for thousands of years, and that helped widen the spectrum of what the project could be.” 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Widen it he did, taking the story line back 16,300 years. That’s when Vashon first emerged from beneath the ice sheet of the last Pleistocene and was surrounded by Lake Russell, a body of fresh water that extended south past Olympia. “Vashon and the surrounding land had not fully sprung back from the weight of the glacier that had depressed it,” Morser said. “So, literally, Vashon was rising up through a changing body of water. The ice had scrubbed any life from the island, so this seemed like a fair place to start the story of living things on Vashon.” Those living things included three waves of human population — the nomadic hunters, who disappeared 10,000 years ago; the Salish people, who appeared sometime between 3,000 to 6,000 years ago; and the white Europeans, who first arrived in the 1840s. Using over three dozen pencils, Morser drew on planks of fir and cedar that he cut and glued to specific shapes and sizes. Other images he had printed on sheets of Plexiglass. His goal was to visually capture the transition from an old-growth forest with a mature, indigenous population to the European impact from clear-cutting, establishing townships and the buildings replaced by the new arts center. “I’ve always been interested in the area between art and illustration,” Morser explained. “Is something a diagram or a piece of art? I’ve tried hard to make this project tread that fine line.” Not wanting to show the past through just old images of European settlers, Morser created a timeline using birds that changed as their habitats were developed. “There are different birds that live in old growth, logging, agricultural and residential areas,” he said. “The transit of time can also be told by the wild and domestic animals, from the deer and cougars to early farm and commerce animals like sheep, cows and especially chickens, and house pets like dogs and cats.” To physically show the evolution of Center and its many layers of change, Morser designed the wood panels to slide across the 15-by-21 foot installation. Believing that history becomes more interWWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
esting “if you have to dig through things,” Morser’s panels are interactive and require the viewer to move them aside to see the hidden imagery. With a series of hand-drawn maps, Morser illustrates the dramatic transition of the island’s independent waterfront communities, each with their own ferry dock, general store, school district and post office, to a unified island with one central town, two ferry docks and one school district. Bringing the subject back to Center, Morser explained that the building that used to occupy the space where VCA’s building now sits was known to most islanders as McFeeds, but it began as Ed Zarth’s Island Garage and car dealership. “To fulfill the original obligation of the project, which almost got lost along with my life, I show a lot of imagery about the building,” Morser said. Morser heard the story of Zarth’s death
9 Custom Framing 9 Readymade Frames 9 Mirrors
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Did you know that “Tara” means shining star in sanskrit? Come by our exquisite shop and let us show you how brightly you can shine! Tuesday - Thursday 11-5 pm or by appointment Vashon Village, Suite B2 www.house-of-tara.com • 206-463-1080
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Island’s only theater offers more than just movies By SARAH LOW Vashon Beachcomber Reporter
As many small, independent movie theaters fall victim to the monopoly of the multi-screen megaplexes, Vashon’s single-screen throwback carries on. Owner Eileen Wolcott’s community-minded insight and innovation as far as what the Vashon Theatre — which celebrates its 70th birthday this year — offers to island residents is, in large part, to thank. Sporting a classic marquee (remember those?), vintage popcorn popper and a decidedly odd, but locally significant mural on the inside walls, it’s like a step back in time, even though the theater also offers the latest technology for today’s 3D and digital movies. Concessions are still reasonably priced and include locally made treats, as well as wine and beer during evening showings. And for those who prefer art over the latest blockbuster, the theater still has much to offer. About three years ago, Wolcott said she started looking for some alternative programming to put on the screen, as it was becoming more challenging to consistently offer content people were interested in. That is when she began bringing National Theatre Live productions to Vashon’s old-fashioned movie house. National Theatre Live is a project that launched in 2009, when it began filming and broadcasting produc-
Courtesy Photo
The Vashon Theatre during the island’s 2016 Oscar Party.
tions from London’s National Theatre to cinemas all over the world. It has since expanded to offer productions from other theaters in the U.K., as well as New York. Over the years, island attendees have had the opportunity to see Benedict Cumberbatch in a National Theatre production of “Frankenstein� and a Barbican production of “Hamlet,� as well as James Franco in “Of Mice and Men� on Broadway, just to name a few examples. “People are astounded by these productions and love them,� Wolcott said. “So we started thinking, ‘What else is out there?’� “What else� for the Vashon Theatre turned out to be live performances from Russia’s Bolshoi Ballet, as well as
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operas from the Royal Opera Company and more recently, Exhibition on Screen offerings, which focus on a specific gallery or artist. “These are amazing,� raved Wolcott. “You can see things you don’t even get to see if you go in person to the gallery, exhibit or museum. These are very popular.� Past offerings from the series have included “I, Claude Monet� and “The Artist’s Garden: American Impressionism.� Brand new this year, the theatre offered broadcasts from the annual TED conference in Vancouver, B.C. “Now that we’ve hooked into this ‘alternative’ programming system, companies are reaching out to us,� Wolcott noted. “Though we never know how something will be received, so it’s always a bit of a risk.� A risk mainly due to the increased shipping costs of the arts offerings, as well as the fact theater productions tend to run longer than most movies. But it’s a risk Wolcott is willing to take. “It’s worth it,� she said. “People seem to respond well and it provides the variety that with a single screen, we’re always looking for.�
What’s playing? W Fo a look at what’s playing at the Vashon For Theatre or to purchase tickets, see Th va vashontheatre.com or the Community Ca Calendar page in the latest issue of The Be Beachcomber.
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Islander combines passions, starts Vashon tour company Mostly True Vashon Tours based on humor, history and can be enjoyed via electric bike or bus By ANNELI FOGT Vashon Beachcomber Editor
Islander Chris Austin is a man of many talents. He hosts a radio show on Vashon’s local radio station, Voice of Vashon; engineers many others; has written humorous books about Vashon’s history and now has added tour guide to his list of jobs. He created Mostly True Vashon Tours last year as a way to combine his love of recounting history with his ability to make people laugh. “I’ve been a history fan all my life and I’ve always liked comedy,� he said. “I also love to teach.� Austin has already led multiple tours by the busload, including reporters from
Anneli Fogt/Beachcomber Photo
Above: Mostly True Vashon Tours’ creator and tour guide Chris Austin in downtown Vashon. Left: Downtown Vashon after a huge fire in 1933 that burned many buildings and knocked out electricity. The loss of electricity prevented firefighters from pumping water, and the fire was put out with dynamite. Vashon-Maury Island Heritage Museum Photo
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KING5’s Evening Magazine in the fall of 2016. But the summer of 2017 will be the company’s first full tourist season in operation, and the tours will be offered via two options: onboard a bus or by electric bicycle. Both will have healthy doses of Austin’s humor and island historical knowledge, as well as stops at island landmarks, restaurants, wineries, cideries and farms. “I want the tours to not just be about history, but to act as an ambassador to the island for people to enjoy tastings, restaurants and boutique farms. This island can sometimes be intimidating on your own, especially with the ferries, so, with the tour, it’s like ‘Here’s your car, take off,’” Austin said. The bus tour has three different routes: north Vashon, south Vashon and Maury Island, but is highly customizable. “Nothing is mandatory, it’s mob rule,” he explained. Those interested can also be picked up at the ferry dock and leave their car(s) in Seattle. Bus tours start in Vashon town at the Hinge Gallery at the corner of Vashon Highway and SW 174th Street. The electric bike tour has a set 18-mile route that winds from town, down by the sound on Vashon’s east side to Dockton in the southern portion of Vashon Island. There are roughly a dozen stops along the way at important island places with an interesting history. Electric bike tours come courtesy of a partnership with Vashon’s new electric bicycle rental and retail store — Vashon E-bike. Tours are offered every Monday, Thursday and Friday throughout the summer.
Austin explained what to expect: “First, you’re going to get a history of the geology, and the island’s destiny is its geology. All of the first industries (gravel, bricks, fishing), all of that is (determined by) geology,” he said. “Then you’ll hear about the island’s first inhabitants from 10,000 years ago to today. Then about landmarks like the Swastika Lodge. There’s also a walking tour of downtown, and I talk about the fire that nearly destroyed it.” As for humor, “We do the story of Luana Beach Resort as told by cats. Just because,” he said. There is also the story of how the island got its name as told by puppets. But one of his favorite stories is about a captain who lived on Vashon and, because the fog would get so thick, would use his dog’s bark as a sort of lighthouse or foghorn to guide him into the dock. “The island was so utterly segregated at the time and completely water dependent,” Austin said. “I think what makes (this island) unique is it’s a confluence of a lot of different people and the history is well-documented, relatively, though you can never have enough.”
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The Mostly True Vashon Tours’ bus tours cost $35 per person. See vashontours.com for upcoming tour dates and to purchase tickets. Private tours by use of a personal vehicle are also possible. The e-bike tours occur Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoons and cost $162 per person. See vashonebike.com and click “Book Now” for more information.
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Abundance of animals are re-wilding island By BIANCA PERLA Vashon Nature Center director
N
ature is full of mystery. Part of this mystery comes from life’s vastness. Whole worlds exist at different spatial scales. On a stream survey, I step one foot in Shinglemill Creek’s cold flow. My footprint covers 300 stream invertebrates living in the sediments below. After running in Island Center Forest, two friends and I delay in the parking lot compelled to discuss the shades of green — dusty mint of lichen, yellow-green moss alongside the deep green of another, translucent lime of opening oso-berry leaves, black-green hemlock needles far above. We can observe the forests, fields, streams and beaches of Vashon for a lifetime — many islanders have —and still be surprised each time we step out the door. The island sits in a universe of water. Zoom out to imagine the whole Salish Sea, an ecologically and geologically connected area of saltwater extending from the Strait of Georgia in Canada, through the Strait of Juan de Fuca and south into Puget Sound. Vashon-Maury is one of 419 islands enveloped by this cold, calm, 6,500-square mile sea. Now, zoom in to our island, one tiny speck of gravel in the south-central section of this sea, contributing 37 square miles of land and about 50 miles of shoreline. Salmon from as far away as the Stillaguamish River forage along our shores. Every spring brings an assortment of bird migrants — from tiny, orange jeweled Rufous hum-
mingbirds, to bare-headed, apocalyptic-looking turkey vultures. This tiny dot of land matters. It is home to some, a migratory stop-over to others, a feeding ground, a nursery, a respite. And there is magic here not so easily sensed in a city — the magic of life growing, interacting, giving, dying and creating more life. As mainland areas turn more grey with concrete, our island turns more green. Old farmlands transform back into forests, and once-logged woods mature into early stages of old-growth. This forest growth has brought us more ravens and owls and pileated woodpeckers mining decadent dead spots for insects. Fish take hold in steadier streams created by ameliorating influences of forests on rain — fir boughs slow rain drops, cedar roots drink run-off. And the explorers of the animal kingdom — the wide-rangers — have also turned their eyes to our emerald green — coyote, cougar, bear and even beaver, have recently swum to join us. Our island is re-wilding right before our eyes, and this is where the story gets interesting. Many of us come here because we love to experience nature’s beauty — vivacious and overflowing. Nature in process delivers clean air, clean water, replenished soils and rich, good food. But nature is not always comfortable. Mature trees wreak havoc when they fall thundering to the ground inches from a roof in a wind storm. A cougar print on a
Le Ouistiti’s French immersion program puts a strong emphasis on the emotional well-being of the child and the important role the preschool plays in a child’s life. We believe that preschool is the first step in guaranteeing the success of all students in an educational environment that is just and holds high expectations of all its students. Our students, who come from English-speaking households, are being introduced to a second language for the first time. Our goal is for them to gain all the benefits of a bilingual education and enjoy a stimulating learning environment where each day offers a new discovery!
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car today, will I get in an accident? No one asks sheriffs this question, though statistically we are more likely to have a car accident than be attacked by a cougar. Cars fit into our illusion of control, cougars and bears do not. But, there are ways of minimizing risks in nature just as there are in the built world.
Jesse Bell Photo
The island’s cougar as seen in September 2016 on Maury Island.
muddy trail sends awe, but also fear and anger, rippling through our community. Many hearts have broken over a favorite sheep or pet taken as food by another animal. In a world where we dominate, we believe we are in control; living close to nature refutes that idea quickly. Part of nature’s mystery, part of the reason even long-time islanders can be surprised on walks through the woods, is that nature constantly changes. Nature reminds us that the landscape of our lives always shifts, that uncertainty is our most constant friend. This is both the beauty and the trial of being alive. When our latest cougar visitor arrived on Vashon, Vashon Nature Center received questions like: “Can I still run in the woods?” and, “Can I let my children play outside?” We would love to answer these questions with certainty, but they are like asking a sheriff: If I drive my
As a wildlife biologist, I’ve encountered cougars in the wilds of Montana, in coastal California and in the depths of the Sierras. I’ve stumbled upon bear kills, been sprayed by a skunk and watched a moose trample an empty tent. I’m trained how to act around animals and these understandings work like seatbelts in a car; they don’t eliminate risk, but they minimize it. In the mid-2000s, researchers made a discovery. Besides residing in large tracts of wilderness that we had set aside for them, cougars were using built-up areas in Sammamish, Issaquah, North Bend and Bellingham. Bears and coyotes walk our streets, too, and have made it clear that despite years of wildlife control programs aimed at their elimination or relocation, they will not go away — we live in good habitat. Recent scientific studies show that wildlife management is more successful when we learn to adapt rather than control. When we learn habits that minimize risk for pets, livestock and ourselves (see sidebar), wildlife conflicts decrease significantly. Learning techniques for wildlife co-existence is like buckling our nature seatbelt so we can enjoy the ride — whether it’s meeting the eyes of a wild animal, running through the mud or feeling the rain on our skin.
IF YOU ENCOUNTER A … BEAR: Stop, remain calm. Slowly back away and avoid direct eye contact. If the bear approaches, stand tall, wave your arms, talk in a low voice. Don’t run. According to the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife, if the bear attacks, fight back aggressively. As a last resort, protect yourself by lying on your stomach and playing dead. COUGAR: Stop, pick up small children and pets. Don’t run. Face the cougar, talk to it firmly, make yourself seem as tall as possible. Maintain eye contact. Back away, leave the cougar an escape route and give it time. If a cougar continues to approach or starts to growl, throw something at it. Fight if necessary, or use bear spray. COYOTE: Pick up small children and secure pets. Assess whether the coyote seems sick, injured or is defending a den or pups (more likely March-July). If not, yell, clap, use a noise maker or spray water. For more about living with wildlife, visit: vashonnaturecenter.org/living-wildlife.
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Trails: Old technology for the modern world By TOM DEAN and
at Shinglemill Creek or the Judd Creek Loop. Others are historic trails preserved and opened to the public, like Frog Holler Forest. In partnership with King County, the Land Trust is also working on ideas for transportation trails — like the Town Loop Trail — and on a concept for a wheelchair-friendly trail behind Vashon’s senior care center (Vashon Community Care), which lies on the highway north of town. Indigenous people probably maintained trails for hunting and gathering, but mostly used the water for transportation. They still do, both for industry like shellfish harvest and for cultural practice like canoe journeys. Meanwhile, Europeans used horses for clearing and plowing land, but also relied heavily on boats for transportation. You can hardly take a walk on the beach without stumbling across the remains of an old
Vashon-Maury Island Land Trust Executive Director
DAVID KIMMETT King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks
Everything old is new again. There is a resurgence of trail use sweeping the country, and Vashon is no exception. Islanders and those who visit the island are discovering and enjoying the benefits of backwoods trails. Through hiking, running or riding, nature is a soothing and healing force, and trails provide joy and exercise at the same time. Trails also fight climate change by providing safe routes for non-motorized transportation. How modern is that? Two years ago, the Vashon-Maury Island Land Trust and King County Parks launched an initiative called Five New Trails in Five Years. Some of those trails are newly constructed, like Bill’s Loop
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OUTDOORS & RECREATION
Anneli Fogt/Staff Photo
Winter sunlight on the trail around Fisher Pond.
dock from the boats that served the island before Washington state’s ferries. As the island became more populated, horse trails were converted to roads. But recreational trail routes remained, maintained by horseback riders. Twenty years ago it was possible to ride from Island Center Forest, just south of town, south through Paradise Ridge and Misty Isle Farm all the way to Lost Lake, in the southern portion of Vashon, and back — almost completely off-road. Of course, most of those trails were used by permission on private land. As land has changed hands in recent years, many of those permissions have been rescinded. Routes on private land are very fragile. It only takes one landowner putting up a “No Trespassing” sign to break an entire route. This is why the Land Trust and King County are making a concerted effort to create longer trail routes that can be passed down through generations. It means buying lands as anchor points, like Island Center Forest or the Maury Island Natural Area. It means asking people to put trail permissions in writing, whether through a tax incentive program or a trail easement. 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
A few years ago, King County and the Land Trust assembled stakeholders to work on an island-wide vision for rebuilding a backwoods trail network. What emerged were three primary initiatives: 1. Re-create the historic route from Island Center Forest to Lost Lake. 2. Connect the two large Maury Island parks (the natural area and the marine park). 3. Piece together a route from Quartermaster Harbor to Fern Cove, up the Judd Creek watershed and down the Shinglemill watershed. The first two routes are planned to be multi-use, meaning pedestrians, mountain bikes and horses are allowed. The third, because of the soft soils along the creeks, will be pedestrian-only. If this sounds simple, it is anything but. It will require a leap of faith from many landowners. Will the public respect my property? Will they drop their trash along the trail or party in my woods? Will they break their ankle and sue me? In general, people are on trails because they enjoy nature, not because they want to trash it. Besides, it’s a lot of work hauling your cooler of beer up that trail. Why bother? It takes a leap of faith to allow a trail on your property. Perhaps it also takes a love of trails. After all, you might end up being the one in your neighborhood who uses the trail the most. The Land Trust is working on a concept for New Trail Number Four — a proposed route from lower Gold Beach into Maury Marine Park. But the permission of the neighborhood is needed to make this work. Land Trust officials hope they will go along with the plan.
Find a trail There are a total of eight natural preserves and many other parks on Vashon Island with no shortage of natural beauty. See the trail descriptions on page 32 and the accompanying island map on page 33 to find the trail or trails to explore. See page 35 for information and directions to the island’s beaches and waterfront parks. WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
Susan Riemer/Staff Photo
A stroll down a trail in Vashon’s Island Center Forest is welcome any time of year.
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Find a trail ... 1. Shinglemill Creek/Fern Cove Winding from the woods to the sound, this delightful 2-mile traverse takes hikers along the crest of a ridge into a tree-studded ravine, across Needle Creek and along the shores of Shinglemill Creek — one of the island’s major salmon-bearing streams. Bill’s Trail is a new 1.2-mile spur off the existing Shinglemill Creek Trail. How to get there: From town, head about 2 miles north on the highway then west on SW 156th Street about a third of a mile. The trailhead is on the right side of the road with a small parking area.
2. Fisher Pond Preserve A half-mile trail circumnavigates the lovely Fisher Pond, named for islander Bill Fisher, who donated this 90-acre preserve to the Land Trust. At the west end you’ll find a picnic shelter and table perched above the water, offering views of the shallow, bird-friendly pond. How to get there: Fisher Pond is located on Bank Road, about a mile west of town. Just before reaching the pond, there is a pullout along the road with room for cars to park. The trail heads north from there.
3. Agren Park Agren Memorial Park was named to honor Lieutenant Harold E. Agren, who lost his life fighting for his country during World War II. Agren is a 30-acre multi-use sports park on the west side of Vashon Island off Bank Road. The heavily wooded property has been improved with one mile of informal walking and horseback riding trails that meander through dense conifer stands. A grass baseball field with backstop, bleachers and parking has been developed in the south portion of the site. How to get there: From town, turn west on SW Bank Road at the main intersection. Follow the road until it curves. Agren Park will be straight ahead.
4. Island Center Forest At more than 400 acres, Island Center Forest stakes claim to the largest and most popular collection of trails on Vashon. Trails, ponds and extensive wetlands are found here, as is an artful, timber-frame shelter — perfect for picnics. How to get there: Heading south from town, turn right on SW 188th Street. Go to the end (about a quarter of a mile); the entrance is on the right.
5. Judd Creek/Paradise Valley Loop Trail With bridges and boardwalks looping a mile through the 32
OUTDOORS & RECREATION
forests and meadows of Paradise Valley and across Judd Creek — another major salmon-bearing stream — the trail is fairly flat and a good choice for birders and families with young children. How to get there: From town, head south on Vashon Highway; then head west on SW 204th Street; then head south on 111th Street. The trailhead is found off of 111th, between 204th and 216th streets. Pedestrians and leashed dogs only on this trail.
6. Christensen Pond Preserve This birder’s paradise includes 30 acres on the west side of the island, protected in 2000 with the help of the Vashon-Maury Island Audubon Society. A haven for migratory songbirds, waterfowl, owls and hawks, it features a small pond and extensive wetlands. How to get there: The pond is due west of Burton on Wax Orchard Road, just south of 232nd Street. Watch for a small sign that says “Nature Preserve.” No dogs allowed.
7. Burton Acres This 64-acre park on the Burton Peninsula offers a number of user-established walking, hiking and equestrian trails through a mature and diverse forest. Here you will find big-leaf maples, Douglas firs, the occasional Pacific yew … and lots of deer. How to get there: From town, take Vashon Highway south to Burton, then head east on SW Burton Drive. Turn right at 97th Avenue and follow the road to Jensen Point Park where parking is available.
8. Frog Holler Forest Vashon’s newest community forest is 60 acres complete with 2 miles of multi-use trails. The site also features a 5-acre pasture that has been grazed by sheep, goats and horses over the years. How to get there: From town, head west on Bank Road to Westside Highway, head south to Wax Orchard road and continue south. The forest is located one-half mile south of Bates Road on the east side of Wax Orchard Road.
9. Dockton Forest This is an expansive forest that is home to a web of trails used by walkers, hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers. Venturers can go shore-to-shore, as there are trails leading from Quartermaster Harbor to the eastern edge of Maury Island. How to get there: On Maury Island, take Dockton Road until you reach the park, which is on the right. Immediately on the left is a small parking lot for the forest/trail area. There is also a gated entrance west of Gold Beach at the corner of 79th Avenue SW and SW 260th Street were the mountain bike trails can be accessed. 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
103rd Ave SW
North End Ferry Terminal
Vashon-Maury Island Parks & Natural Lands
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Point Heyer Natural Area
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SW 204th St
Vashon Pool & Commons
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99th Ave SW
Lost Lake
Maury Island Natural Area
South End Ferry Terminal
Neill Point Natural Area
Parks and Recreation Division
Piner Point Natural Area
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The information included on this map has been compiled by King County staff from a variety of sources and is subject to change without notice. King County makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or rights to the use of such information. This document is not intended for use as a survey product. King County shall not be liable for any general, special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages including, but not limited to, lost revenues or lost profits resulting from the use or misuse of the information contained on this map. Any sale of this map or information on this map is prohibited except by written permission of King County. \\dnrp1\projects\Parks\projects\site_projects\vashon\apps\Vashon_NRLands_Parks_letter_public_only2.mxd - 4/12/2017
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Dr. Marc O. Langland, DDS
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(206) 463-9282 www.VashonIslandDental.com 17425 Vashon Hwy SW • Mailing: PO Box 673, Vashon Island WA 98070
Iconic Point Robinson
The Point Robinson Lighthouse is Vashon’s most iconic landmark. Located on the eastern-most point of Maury Island, the grounds boast grassy fields, keeper’s quarters that can be rented through the Vashon Park District (vashonparkdistrict.org) and a walkable beach. Lighthouse tours are available between noon and 4 p.m. every Sunday from mid-May to mid-September. Tours can also be booked by calling Captain Joe Wubbold at 206-463-6672. Getting there: From town, go south on Vashon Highway. Turn left at SW 204th Street. When it comes to a “T” at the water, turn right onto Dockton Road and continue straight onto Maury. Continue east on Point Robinson Road.
ashon Pharmacy’s primary focus is to provide the highest caliber of pharV maceutical care to the residents of Vashon Island. Our five staff pharmacists are available 7 days a week with friendly and personal service including medication advice to both residents and visitors as well as medical equipment rentals. Operated by the same families for over 60 years, Vashon Pharmacy works daily to support the framework of our rural community. his pharmacy is modeled after the many small town “mom & pop” stores that we all miss from America’s historic street corners. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you find something unique from the “other side” of Vashon Pharmacy including gifts for the home, personal care products, yarn, greeting cards, photo frames and albums and so much more. The Pharmacy is also home to the Island’s largest selection of toys and games for children, as well as for souvenirs and Vashon Island sweatshirts and T-shirts. e sure to enjoy the green-space and bicycle racks built by Vashon Pharmacy just south of our building on Main Street.
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Open Mon-Fri 9am – 7pm • Sat 9am – 6pm • Sun 11am – 1pm 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Island offers beaches galore, find yours ith around 50 miles of shoreline, VashonMaury Island boasts the majority of waterfront property in King County and no two beaches are the same. From a sandy spit with a warm slough to a classic, rocky Northwest landscape complete with driftwood, find the beach right for you in the following list.
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Dockton Park There isn’t much sand at this 23-acre, King County-owned park, but it is an island favorite with a playground, grass lawn, restrooms, boat launch and pier. Island teens also swear the water is the warmest on Vashon. Directions: From town, go south on Vashon Highway. Turn left at SW 204th Street. When it comes to a “T” at the water’s edge, turn right onto Dockton Road SW to cross the isthmus to Maury. Turn left on Dockton Road and then turn right to continue south to Dockton.
Lisabeula Park One of only two west-facing public beaches, Lisabuela’s large grass field is ideal for Frisbee throwing, picnics and sunsets. Picnic tables, barbeques and portable restrooms are provided. Directions: From town, head south on Vashon Highway. Turn right at SW 204th Street, left on 111th Avenue SW, right on SW 220th Street. Continue down a steep, winding road.
Maury Island Marine Park These 320 acres were once a gravel pit, but are now a park owned by King County. Due to an ongoing restoration effort to plant native species, the park — which begins in the woods and ends at the shore — looks increasingly natural and verdant. A
steep, half-mile walk from the small parking lot to the beach is worth the views of Mount Rainier and the expansive calm-watered sound. Directions: From town, head south on Vashon Highway and turn left on SW 204th Street. When it comes to a “T,” turn right on Dockton Road SW. At a “Y” in the road, veer left onto SW Point Robinson Road. Take a right onto 59th Avenue nu uee SSW u W and d a lleft e onto ef SW 244th Street. Proceed tre tr reet. P Pro rroocceeed d to to the hee end h e of the road. d. d
The North o h End End d At low tide, dee the hhee north-end north-en nor h nd fferry err r y doc do dock ckk becomes an n interactive i erraa exhibit bitt full fu f ull lll of Northwestt se ssea ea life. f G Ge Geoducks, eeodu eo duuckksss, ssea stars, crabs and plenty pple leen nttyy of of mussels m muus and barnacles make themselves known on a
KVI Beach This seemingly oddly named beach gets its name from the AM radio tower that sits at the end of the beach and provides not only a radio signal, but a roosting site for bald eagles. A top choice among locals due to its sandy spit and slow-moving slough, KVI is perfect for children and sunbathers. Dogs are allowed. Directions: From town, head south on Vashon Highway. Turn left at SW 204th Street; take another left on Chautauqua Beach Road, then right on SW 204th Street. Note: Very limited parking in residential neighborhood. WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
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temporary beach in front of La Playa Mexican restaurant. Enjoy looking at the sea critters, but be respectful of nearby homes and of the tide as the beach disappears when it comes in. Directions: The north-end ferry dock is at the northern terminus of Vashon Highway. Access the beach using the boat ramp on the right side of the dock.
Wingehaven Park With 12 acres nestled on a quiet part of the north end off the highway, the park suggests Vashon’s grand past; it’s the site of a former waterfront estate and still boasts a crumbling balustrade that yields to stunning views of Mount Rainier. Owned by the Vashon Park District, it’s also a great place to collect beach glass at low tide. Walk along the beach, but be mindful of the homes. Directions: From the north-end ferry dock, head south on Vashon
36
Terry Donnelly Photo
Island historian Bruce Haulman sits on a bench overlooking the sound at Wingehaven Park.
Highway. In about a mile, take a left on Cunliffe Road. The park entrance is a half-mile down the hill, down a wooden staircase on the left.
OUTDOORS & RECREATION
Grab a board Puget Sound’s lack of waves and cold water prevent actual surfing off the beaches of Vashon, but the typically calm waters are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Vashon offers two places to rent paddling gear. Vashon Watersports: With a fleet of kayaks, canoes and paddleboards available for rent right on Quartermaster Harbor, Vashon Watersports rents watercraft by the hour or by the day. Staff can also transport watercraft to several places on the island for an additional fee. Vashon Watersports is located at 8900 SW Harbor Dr. on the Burton Peninsula. The boathouse is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends only — and on Memorial Day — until June 11. From June 16 to Sept. 4, the boathouse will be open for rentals every day except Wednesdays. Paddling sessions and guided trips can also be scheduled by reservation. For more information, see vashonadventures.com or call 206-463-9257. Fat Cat Paddleboarding: Fat Cat is a mobile rental company offering stand-up paddleboard rentals in a variety of sizes for different skill levels, along with tours and classes. Rental boards can be transported anywhere on the island and can be rented by the hour, day, weekend or week. Fat Cat is open everyday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. To rent boards or sign up for classes or tours, call 206-463-1755 or visit fatcatpaddleboarding.com. 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Learn to sail Every summer for the past 27 years, the Bruce Haulman Junior Sailing Program has taught both children and adults the basics of sailing. It will be offered again this year. Programs for kids begin July 10 and consist of four days of lessons, Monday through Thursday. The program will run through the week of Aug. 14. Beginner classes are for ages 8 to 11, and junior classes are for ages 12 to 19. In both age groups, sailors learn the basics of water safety and small boat sailing in the sheltered waters of Quartermaster Harbor. Sailing lessons for adults take place during two weekend keen en nd d sessions, sessio onss, July JJu u 29-30 and Aug. 12-13. There iss a two-person t o-p peer on minimum p minim m min mu per class. information, FFor more m e informa in n, and an nd to register, see vashonpa k g an and d clic cclick on n thee “Activities� tab. The park parks.org d dist di tr can an n also aalso ob eaa eed at info@vashonparks. district be reached or o rg aan n (206) 6)) 4 463 46 6 96 60 6 org and 463-9602. ar y reg ar arly gistrration nd di An eearly registration discount applies to those who be eefffo orrree M o register b before May 31.
Courtesy Photo
Students in the Bruce Haulman Junior Sailing Program apply what they’ve learned sailing in the harbor.
WE CAN MEASURE & IMPROVE SYSTEM EFFICIENCY
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E-bike, mountain bike, road bike: Plenty of ways to cycle on Vashon Those T h sse who wh travell from fr fro Seattle eea e or elsewhere to bike on Vashon ce an immediate immediate meddiate te and a d to ttou gh ch gh hha face tough challenge if they take the north-end rryy They’ve hey’ve hey hey’ve ve got tto climb llimb mb the mb the so sso-called “ferry hill” — a staggerferry. s ep, mile-long m l lim mbb up up a narrow stretch of road. But it’s inglyy steep, climb or tho hoossee fit f enough ennouugh gghh to t manage it, a bit like going through worthh iitt ffor those Onnnccee that O thhat tha at hill hhil hiilll is i topped, Vashon’s expanse of rural roads a portal. Once — some hilly, some not — take cyclists past forests, farms and beaches, as well as some great places to stop for a bite to eat. Vashon is known throughout the region as a great place to cycle. Though some of the roads are narrow, the share-the-road ethic runs strong on Vashon. And there are plenty of great routes to consider. Popular among serious cyclists is a 32-mile loop of the island, which takes riders along the quiet west side, as far south as the so-called “Tahlequah Y” near the south-end ferry and back north along Quartermaster Harbor. Add in a circumnavigation of Maury Island, and it becomes a 50-mile loop. If that sounds like a bit much, an easier 12-mile loop starts at the north-end ferry terminal, heads down the highway to 171st and then veers east along the Dilworth Loop, ultimately circling back to the ferry. Another fantastic loop — especially on a warm, summer day — takes riders from the north-end ferry dock south to Quartermaster Drive and then north to KVI Beach, a great place to stop and relax. All of these routes, and much more information, can be found on Vashon Bikes’ website, vashonbikes.com/where-to-ride. Many other Vashon bike routes can also be found at seattlebiketours.org/ members/maps/islands.html. The map library lists route distances and the amount and steepness of hills.
Passport to Pain Taking that north-end ferry hill climb and multiplying it by thousands of feet, the annual Passport to Pain (P2P) bike ride draws some 300 bicycle riders annually for a punishing ride up most of the island’s steepest hills. The ride that will be held this year at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, is regarded as the toughest in Puget Sound, and is in its seventh year. It’s a fundraiser for the Vashon Island Rowing Club and is marked by both its difficulty — the toughest course has 10,000 feet of elevation gain — and its spirit, with food and humor served in equal measure at the ride’s abundant checkpoints. For riders who do not wish to take on the full 10,000 feet of uphill climb in an 80-mile ride dubbed “The Idiot,” the 50-mile “Weasel” and the 30-mile “Weenie” are offered. At the end of the day, riders, rowers and community members are invited to 38
OUTDOORS & RECREATION
David Weller Photo
Riders participating in the 2016 Passport to Pain make their way up one of the course’s steepest hills out of the Gold Beach neighborhood on Maury Island.
gather at Jensen Point for a closing barbecue. But be warned, this ride is not technically a race and organizers have countered the notion by awarding the first rider back the “Hot Spatula” and the chore of flipping burgers while waiting for the other riders to finish. The barbecue and the mingling that occur after the punishment of the ride is a P2P tradition that Bruce Morser — the brains behind the P2P — said he would like to see happen each year. Last year, the ride, with around 320 participants, raised roughly $30,000 for the rowing club and supported the purchase of boats and equipment for the club’s teen and adult members. P2P organizers never have a fundraising goal in mind and are shocked every year by the fact that the ride works as a fundraiser at all. Colby Atwood, a close friend of Morser’s, said he is expecting 300 riders this year. “It’s a miracle every year,” Atwood said. Registration for the ride opened in January and will remain open until just before the ride. Atwood said most riders wait until the last minute and the bulk of registrations are made about eight days before the ride. “It all depends on the weather,” he said. See passport2pain.org for more information and to register. 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
New E-bike rental company offers alternative to pain By ANNELI FOGT Vashon Beachcomber Editor
While the Passport to Pain bike ride has drawn thousands of bike riders over the years seeking the pain of climbing up the island’s steepest hills, not all who live on, or visit, the island are interested in that kind of punishment. With that in mind, two islanders have opened an e-bike rental business and retail store. Vashon E-bike is the brainchild of Doug and Erin Kieper, an island couple known in the community for their Vashon Watersports business that provides kayak and paddleboard rentals out of the Jensen Point Boathouse. E-bikes are their newest venture. “The idea was that we had people coming to the boathouse who didn’t like water so what else could they do?” Erin Kieper said. “The rest was Doug’s idea.” Doug, who commutes by e-bike to his job in Seattle, saw the electric pedal-assisted bikes as the perfect solution to the difficulty of biking on Vashon. “I always thought biking on-island would be awesome, but it’s quite the undertaking unless you’re a regular cyclist,” he said. The Kiepers found a German e-bike company, Riese & Muller, and ordered 16 bikes for a rental fleet, as well as addition-
al ones to show for sales. The rental bikes are a step-through design, meaning riders don’t have to swing their leg over a high frame to get into the seat, but the company makes multiple models. All are equipped with a rechargeable battery pack that assists with pedaling depending on the
amount of incline and energy required. “It’s like riding when you were a kid and not thinking about how hard it was,” Doug Kieper said. Vashon E-bike offers rentals by the hour and by the day for self-guided tours and rides, as well as guided tours. See vashonebike.com for rates & information.
Island Nest Nanny and
Helper Carolyn Kinsler Steen (206)851.9805 Serving families over 25 years Islandnestnanniesandeducators.com
VMI
VASHON-MAURY ISLAND
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
“Let Us Manage Your Property Properly” Full range of professional property management services for residential, vacation, and commercial properties. Come visit us in the Windermere Annex in town or contact us via email or phone.
Jan Neutz, Property Manager Real Estate Licensed Managing properties since 2008
Anneli Fogt/Staff Photo
Erin and Doug Kieper at their Vashon E-Bike store. WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
jneutz@vmipropertymanagement.com 17311 Vashon Hwy SW • (206) 463-4864 vmi.managebuilding.com OUTDOORS & RECREATION
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Zip through the forest on island’s mountain bike trails After nearly a decade of trying to incorporate mountain bike trails into Vashon’s outdoor recreation offerings, the dream has come true. Working with King County and Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, a group of roughly a dozen island volunteers have Anneli Fogt/Staff Photo put in more than 1,500 hours of work to build Islander Brian Starr tests out the bike trails in trails in Maury Island’s Dockton Forest. Dockton Forest. The trails opened in April of 2017 as eight trails — six descending and two climbing — totaling 3 miles and all of beginner or intermediate difficulty. The trails occupy a piece of land in the northwestern portion of the forest, separate from the existing multi-use trails that are used by hikers, runners and equestrians. The separation is purposeful as to avoid potential dangerous interactions between the mountain bikers
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OUTDOORS & RECREATION
oou bee sspooked ppooked oook oke ok oked keed d by b the faster-moving faster ngg and horses or dogs that could bikes. The trails are located off fff SSW W 2260th Street ett in Dockton Doc Dockt D Do ockkktt Forest. t akke V ash h Highway hwa south th h to t 204th h To get there from town, take Vashon Street. Turn left on 204th and an nd n d follow fol ollow o the road down ow oown wn wn ttoo the plits aand nd n d continuee oon nto ttoo Maury. ury r water. Make a right when it ssp splits onto and llook oookk for 2260th 6 h SStr reett on o the Keep right on Dockton Road and Street to the the th h fore est. left. Park on 260th and walk into forest.
Bike repair Vashon Library: For simple repairs, the library offers tools and tire-patching necessities in a spot just outside the front door. 17210 Vashon Hwy. SW. Vashon Bikes: In Burton, roughly 5 miles from town, this locally owned and operated shop provides repairs along with basic tune-ups and maintenance. 23919 Vashon Hwy. SW behind the coffee stand. Call 999-1551. Spider’s Ski and Sports: Located in town, Spider’s offers bike rentals along with a full-service repair and customization shop seven days a week. 17624 Vashon Hwy. SW. Call 206-408-7474.
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Enjoy your Parks!!! Visit our website: www.vashonparks.org
Vashon Park District Facilities and Their Amenities Agren Memorial Park Burton Acres/Jensen Point Burton Adventure Rec Ctr. Fern Cove Fisher Pond Inspiration Point Lisabeula Lost Lake (boat only) North End Boat Ramp Ober Park Paradise Ridge Park Point Robinson Lighthouse Spring Beach (boat only) Tramp Harbor Dock V. Commons/School Campus Vashon Pool Vashon Fields (VES) Village Green Wingehaven (walk-in only) King County Parks on Vashon Island Dockton Park & Forest Ellis Creek Natural Area Island Center Forest Marjorie Stanley Nature Area Maury Island Marine Park Piner Point (boat only)
Parks are open Dawn to Dusk. No smoking. No alcohol without permit/insurance. No removal or destruction of park property.
Vashon Park District offices are located in the Ober Park Community Center, 17130 Vashon Highway SW. Our offices are open Monday-Friday 9a – 4p • Phone: 463-9602 • Fax: 463-9614
WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
VASHON PARKS GRID
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2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
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Swim, climb, skate: Fun abounds for kids on Vashon n the age of endless electronic entertainment and jampacked schedules, Vashon is a place to unplug and take in life’s simpler pleasures. Pick a park or beach, pack a picnic and spend the afternoon playing
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catch, building sand castles or lying on your back watching the clouds overhead. With its beaches, woods and parks, Vashon is the perfect playground for kids of all ages. Here are a few ideas for the younger crowd.
A beautiful place to call home
The Kenney – More Than Just a Beautiful Place to Live
Take a dip The Vashon Pool, managed by the island’s park district, opens May 27, 2017 and will be open on weekends only through June 25. Open swim hours are between 1 and 6 p.m. From June 26 until closing day on Labor Day, the pool will be available for open swim from 1 to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 1 to 6 p.m. on weekends. The pool has a curlicue slide, diving board and plenty of pool toys. It’s also affordable — daily admission is $6.50 and a family season pass is $367.50. Children ages 3 and under are free. Individual and group lessons are available, too. Call the pool at 463-3787 for more information or see vashonparks.org/vashon-pool. The pool is located at 9600 SW 204th St. next to the high school.
Skateboard at BARC The Burton Adventure Recreation Center (BARC) is the park district’s “alternative park,” offering a supervised indoor skateboard and in-line skate facility, a nine-hole disc golf course and BMX trails. Admission is free. Bring your own equipment. It’s located at 10500 S.W. 228th St. in Burton. See vashonparkdistrict.org/ burton-adventure-recreation-center for details.
Go rock climbing
A Lifestyle for a lifetime. It’s all here: lush parks, expansive beaches, stunning views, wildlife, great restaurants, public transportation, shopping, and a unique, historic location you’ll be proud to call home. From independent residential living that maximizes your active lifestyle, to expanded services that take care of daily tasks like meals, housekeeping and more. From assisted living, to memory care, to skilled nursing and rehabilitation programs. The Kenney can provide just the right amount of support to meet your changing needs, while you enjoy the lifestyle of your dreams.
Wherever life takes you, you’ll always feel at home at The Kenney.
Call (206) 937-2800 or visit www.TheKenney.org The Kenney • 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW • Seattle, WA 98136
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FUN FOR KIDS
The Vashon Recess Lab, located in town, boasts the island’s only indoor climbing wall and offers open climbing for kids and adults of all ages. The wall is open to all from 3 to 6 p.m. Fridays and noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is only $5 for kids and is $7 for adults. Climbing shoes are available for rent. The Lab also offers bouldering classes and rentals for parties or other events. If rock climbing isn’t your thing, the exercise space also offers regular spin classes, yoga and weight training. The Vashon Recess Lab is located at 17641 Vashon Hwy SW. Call them at 434-5261 or visit vashonlab.com for more information. 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
West Seattle
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2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
SEE PAGES 47-54
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family f un
festivals & family fun
FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN
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Vashon features a festival for every season Besides the island’s abounding natural beauty, Vashon’s sense of community is perhaps what those who live and visit here enjoy most. There are countless community activities every year, but the island’s large festivals that kick off with Spring Fling around Easter and continue though the December holidays are the highlights. Read on for information about upcoming festivals. Vashon Park District’s annual Low Tide Celebration offers a chance to see the sound around Vashon and the multitude of sea life within it during one of the lowest tides of the year. This year, the 12th annual festival is scheduled for June 24 beginning at 10 a.m. at the Point Robinson lighthouse. The lowest tide of the day will be at 11:40 a.m. On July 21, 22 and 23, the largest of the island’s festivals and annual blockbuster Strawberry Festival will overtake Vashon town with a parade, live music, vendors, dancing and activities for kids. The festival celebrates the strawberry-growing heritage of the island which reached its heyday when Japanese immigrants settled here and began farms in the 1930s and 40s. See page 49 for more information. Vashon’s Fourth of July fireworks display over Quartermaster Harbor is a celebration that draws the entire community to the waterfront. An impressive fireworks display of colorful explosions that reflect in the harbor’s calm waters late at night is sponsored every year by generous islanders. Come to the harbor’s shores early to get a good seat.
To transition from the sunny days of summer to the cooler, crisp days of fall, Vashon’s Ciderfest will take place on Saturday, Oct. 7. Vashon is home to many apple trees that call backyards, front yards and farms of all sizes home. With specialty orchards and talented cider makers that provide quality product for those seeking to drink locally, Ciderfest celebrates all things apple. From tastings and orchard tours for the adults, to cider pressing for the kids, music and entertainment, the annual event will offer something for everyone. As a truly rural area with homes spread far apart, Vashon is not an easy place to trick-or-treat by any conventional means. So, every Halloween, children and families take to the town’s streets to gather treats rain or shine. Vashon’s town core closes to traffic and creatively dressed families trick-or-treat and explore haunted “houses” (businesses). On the eve of the big day, the Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie displays works of local jack-o-lantern art. Scheduled for Dec. 1 and 2 this year, the annual WinterFest tree-lighting ceremony and holiday season cheer draw islanders out of their homes. The celebration includes a Santa-led parade, gingerbread house contest, music and other winter season favorites. Businesses in town stay open late for holiday shopping. When the days begin to get longer and the rainclouds begin to clear, Vashon’s Spring Fling kicks off. Scheduled for March 31, 2018, the Vashon Bunny will make an appearance and the kid-friendly event will be full of multiple egg hunts, crafts and delightful spring activities.
Kent Phelan Photo
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FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Strawberry Festival is island party Unofficial mayor race is quirky, yet communityminded
Anneli Fogt/Staff Photo
Islanders dance in the street to the sounds of Vashon’s Portage Fill band during the 2016 Strawberry Festival. By SUSAN RIEMER Vashon Beachcomber Reporter
ashon’s biggest celebration comes each summer, when the Vashon-Maury Island Chamber of Commerce hosts the Strawberry Festival in July.
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More than 30,000 people attend the threeday event, which includes a parade, classic car show, an abundance of music, street dances, kids’ activities, and more. This year will be the 108th year for the festival, which is set for July 21 to 23. The road through Vashon’s town will be given over to the event, with a variety of vendors lining the streets, musicians performing at several outdoor venues and plenty of activities for kids, from a climbing wall to a reverse bungee jump that flings riders (safely) into the sky. This year, the chamber is going all out to recruit Vashon’s artists to participate and will feature them and their work in the Village Green. The Vashon Farmers Market will also have a presence at the festival this year, addWWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
ing a new element to the event. “People can have a good festival and go buy their kale,” said Jim Marsh, the chamber’s executive director. “We want to highlight and show off what Vashon has to offer.” In addition to being a party for people of all ages, the festival supports many island causes. It raises money to support the work of the chamber throughout the year and provides an important fundraising venue for many island nonprofits. In fact, the event brings in some $60,000 to the local nonprofits that participate. The event itself is like a local holiday on Vashon, with islanders wishing one another “happy festival” the week before. During that “holiday” weekend, Vashon’s own personality shines through, with islanders bringing their passions, art and excitement to it. On-island and off-island guests are all welcome to join in the celebration. For more details about the weekend, including information on a shuttle service from the northand south-end ferries, see vashonchamber. com and look for The Beachcomber’s annual Festival guide that publishes in early July.
As part of each festival, islanders elect an “unofficial mayor,” an individual — person, animal, fruit or vegetable — who runs on a platform intended to raise money for a local nonprofit. Voting, at $1 per vote, is encouraged, and votes are cast by dropping money into “ballot boxes” set up at local businesses. Multiple votes are welcome. The candidate who raises the most for his or her organization wins the mayoral distinction and may choose to appear at ceremonial functions throughout the year — or simply rest on their laurels. Last year, in a nod to the presidential election, Bernie (O’Malley) and Hilary (Emmer) won the race, running on a joint ticket and raising much-needed money for the island’s senior center. They had stiff competition, beating out six other candidates, including four adults, an 11-year-old boy and a sheep. Who is running this year? Time will tell. But be sure to vote. Early and often. FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN
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Preserving Vashon Island’s Japanese American presence By BRUCE HAULMAN Vashon Island historian
eventy-five years ago, the Japanese American community on Vashon Island was shattered. Executive Order 9066, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on Feb. 19, 1942, ordered the removal of Japanese Americans from the West Coast Exclusion Zone, and then, three months later, Civilian Exclusion Order No. 68 ordered the assembly and forced removal of the Vashon Japanese American community on May 16, 1942. On Vashon, four different groups are working to keep the memory of these events alive, to preserve and maintain the experiences of the Vashon Japanese American community and to ensure that we never forget the harm that fear and hatred can cause. In the coming months, several events will be open to the public to learn more about this history of the island. The Friends of Mukai are working to preserve the landmarked Mukai House, Garden and Fruit Barreling Plant, and will hold regular open houses at the site all through the year. The Friends of Mukai was formed in 2012 to restore and preserve this national treasure and is in the process of completing plans to fully restore this significant historic site. Built in 1930, the buildings are a synthesis of two cultural influences: the desire of Japanese immigrants to be American in D.B. Mukai’s design of the house and barreling plant, and their desire to retain their culture in Kuni Mukai’s design of the Japanese stroll garden. The garden is historically significant because it is the only Japanese garden in the United States created by a Japanese woman. You can learn more about the Mukai House, Garden and Fruit Barreling Plant at the Friends of Mukai web site: friendsofmukai.org. This summer, on July 29, the Vashon-Maury Island Land Trust will host a fundraiser at the historic Matsuda Farm. Conserving the farm honors the Matsuda family and their history as Japanese strawberry farmers on Vashon. This is the Land Trust’s first-ever farmland preservation project and it has brought the community together to recognize the agricultural, recreational, natural and cultural significance of the property. The Land Trust is working to link the property into an islandwide public trail system, to renovate the farmhouse, to conserve
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Assistance and Care You Trust. Comfort and Independence You Love. On Beautiful Vashon Island The Living is Easy
visit us at VashonCommunityCare.org 50
FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
an important meadow habitat in the center of the island and to develop the property into a community farm. You can learn more about the Land Trust and the Historic Matsuda Farm at the Land Trust’s website, vashonlandtrust. org. In April 2018, Vashon's Heritage Museum will host an exhibit, curated by the Vashon Japanese American Research Project, that tells the story of the Japanese American community on Vashon. Between 1900, when the first Japanese Americans were recorded on Vashon, and 1942, the community grew and prospered. Strawberry farming was the basis for the success of these immigrants, and as they became successful, they became a well-integrated part of the Vashon Island community. Their exile and imprisonment during World War II effectively shattered this community, and of the 132 island Japanese Americans who were exiled, only about 40 returned to the island to resume farming and to pick up their lives that had been interrupted by the war. You can learn about the Heritage Museum at vashonheritage.org Today, Vashon still has about 40 Japanese-American residents, but only a handful of them trace their heritage to the Vashon Japanese American community from before World War II. Most of the Japanese Americans on Vashon now have their own stories of exile and imprisonment in other parts of the West Coast, and most came here for the same reasons other residents have come to Vashon over the past half-century. The Vashon Japanese American Research Project is a volunteer-driven research project with an 11-person advisory committee composed of islanders, half of whom are of Japanese American descent, which works with all of these organizations to preserve the history of the Japanese American Community on Vashon. You can learn more about the project at vashonhistory.com. WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
File Photo
Vashon’s Mukai House in the springtime.
VISIT W E D N E S DAY T H R U S AT U R DAY 1 - 4 • S U N DAY 1 - 5 1 0 1 0 5 S W BA N K R OA D 206.463.7808
FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN
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Check with these Vashon resources for your pet care needs.
33 years of VIPP... since 1984! Non-ProďŹ t, No-kill rescue organization serving Vashon-Maury Island. Spay/Neuter Program, Lost & Found Services, Micro-chipping Program, Assistance & Education The Cat House 12200 SW 243 St (Off of Old Mill Rd) Saturday Adoptions 11:30-2:30 Dog adoptions by appointment: dogs@vipp.org 206-389-1085
VIPP.org
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PET FRIENDLY VASHON
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
One-stop shopping for your horse, barn, pets and more: • Eastern WA Timothy Alfalfa & Orchard Grass Hay • Full Selection of Grain & Feed Nutrena, LMF, Nature Smart Organics, Country Feeds, Nature’s Café, Mazuri, Standlee, Mid Valley Milling, Sun Seed & Zupreem + Dog Food, Collars, Leashes Supplements & Grooming Supplies.
•
Uckele, Select, Cosequin, Animed, Wendals Herbs and more.
• Straw, Shavings, & Bedding Pellets • Gates, Fencing & Stable Supplies, Buckets, Feeders, Hooks & Hardware • Clothing & Outerwear for Kids & Adults • English & Western Tack, Horse Blankets, Chaps, Gloves & More. We’re your local EasyCare Hoof Boots Dealer
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• Dewormers for all your Critters, Fly Sprays, Traps & Masks, Wound & Leather Care, lots of Grooming Supplies • Local Distributor for Nordic Naturals Fish Oil, Restore for Gut Health & Silver Biotics Island Owned & Operated Since 1998
17321 Vashon Hwy. SW
Vashon Island
206-463-2200 Open 7 days a week
t 'VMMTFSWJDFQSPGFTTJPOBMQFU HSPPNJOHCZWet Whiskers t -BSHFTFMFDUJPOPGQSFNJVN QFUGPPE t 6OJRVFUPZTUSFBUTGPS DBUTEPHT WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
VI Horse Supply, Inc. (206) 463-9792
17710 112th Ave. SW
(8/10 mile west of town off Bank Road)
P.O. Box 868 • Vashon Island, WA 98070-0868 www.islandhorsesupply.com Like us on Facebook Summer Hours: 9am-6pm • 10am-5pm Sundays CLOSED Wednesdays
PET FRIENDLY VASHON
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Be fascinated by island’s annual Sheepdog Classic By SARAH LOW Vashon Beachcomber Reporter
For any visitors lucky enough to be here the second weekend of June, the Vashon Sheepdog Classic is a must-do. Now in its eighth year, this internationally recognized working sheepdog competition attracts thousands of spectators to the velvety green and gently rolling hills of Vashon’s Misty Isle Farms. The sprawling estate of the late businessman Tom Stewart will once again host a herd of Anderson Ranches’ sheep from Oregon’s Willamette Valley, around 150 herding dogs and their handlers and a fiber arts “village,” over four days of competition from Thursday, June 8, through Sunday, June 11. This year, the event welcomes animal behavior expert, professor of animal science at Colorado State University and person with autism, Dr. Temple Grandin, who will be in attendance on Sunday, June 11. She will be interviewed by Julie Forbes — a dog behavior and training expert
Anneli Fogt/Staff Photo
A dog and its handler work to herd sheep into a pen at the 2016 Vashon Sheepdog Classic.
who hosts a popular radio show and podcast (“The Dog Show, with Julie Forbes”). The event will begin on Thursday when young dogs or dogs new to working will compete. Veteran herders and top-level competitors will fill out the remainder of the competition on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Spectators are
U-Cut Open Daily 11-5 Farm Store open weekends June 20 - July 23 10425 SW 238th St. Two blocks from Burton, follow our signs
Find out what’s blooming at: lavenderhillvashon.com lavenderhillmob@mac.com 206.463.2322 54
FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN
welcome any time between 7 a.m. and closing each day (around 5 to 6 p.m.). Coming and going is allowed, just make sure to get a hand stamp first. Food and refreshments will be available throughout the competition (only one food vendor will attend Thursday) from primarily local vendors. A “spirits garden” for those age 21 and older will be available Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Attendees should plan to bring cash. Credit cards may be used for admission, but are not accepted by all vendors. The Fiber Arts Village will be up and running Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with hands-on activities for all ages. The events will take place rain or shine and because June can still be spotty as far as weather goes in the Pacific Northwest, dress for a range of possibilities. Chairs and blankets are also recommended. The event will run a shuttle service to/from both ferry docks all day Saturday and Sunday which costs $5 round trip. Parking for spectators who bring their vehicles is on Old Mill Road. Disability parking will be marked and is near the entrance. Tickets are $10 per day Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Admission to Thursday’s event is by donation. A four-day pass is $25 and kids 10 and under are free. See vashonsheepdogclassic.com for more information and to purchase tickets. Advance purchase is recommended. 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
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Places to Stay SEE PAGES 55-59 Eagle E l H Heights i ht C Cottage tt iis llocated t d on Vashon Island in the Puget Sound. It is easily accessible from Seattle, Tacoma or the Kitsap Peninsula, with or without a car. We call it bed and vegetables – because we offer our guests fresh, pick-your-own vegetables, herbs and fruit in season, grown naturally without chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
Eagle Heights Cottage Bed & Vegetables A peaceful place to come home to on Vashon Island. WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
(206) 304-7188 admin@eagleheightscottage.com www.eagleheightscottage.com PLACES TO STAY
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Arthouse Guest Suite at Hinge Gallery (206) 659-9243 www.hingegallery.com
Artist’s Studio Loft Lodgings (206) 463-2583 www.vashonbedandbreakfast.com
AYH Ranch/Campground (206) 463-2592 www.ayhranch.com
Belle Baldwin House (206) 463-9602 www.vashonparkdistrict.org
Burton Inn (206) 463-5355 www.theburtoninn.com
AYHRANCH.COM
206.463.2592
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Water Views Continental Breakfast Free Wi-Fi Family Suites Available
Eagle Heights Cottage Bed & Vegetables (206) 304-7188 www.eagleheightscottage.com
Lucy’s Table PNW Comfort Food Beer & Wine
4-Room Country Inn in Historic Burton
for Reservations at Lucy’s call 206-408-7060
206-463-5355 www.theburtoninn.com
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24007 Vashon Hwy SW
VAC AT I O N R E N TA L 6 bedroom farmhouse sleeps 8-14 Book at: lavenderhillvashon.com VIA AIRBNB OR VRBO or call 20 6 -4 63-2322 Retreats • Weddings • Reunions
lavenderhillmob@mac.com Open for U-Cut June 20-July 23 11 - 5 daily, farm store open weekends 56
PLACES TO STAY
QUARTERMASTERCOTTAGE.COM
206-794-9451 In the heart of historic Burton Single night stays welcome 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
KVI Beach House (206) 463-6276 www.vrbo.com/408415
Last Resort Guest House (206) 495-1410 www.vashonchamber.com
Lavender Hill Farm (323) 376-6444 www.lavenderhillvashon.com
The Lodges on Vashon www.lodgesonvashon.com stay@lodgesonvashon.com
Maury Cottage (206) 463-4558 www.maurycottage.com
Northview Guest House (206) 463-9181 www.onvashon.com
Romance,Charm & Sunsets await you…
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View of Colvos Passage Beach Access Hot Tub Paradise Found
Last Resort Guest House 206.495.1410 www.vashonchamber.com WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
PLACES TO STAY
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Point Robinson Lighthouse/Keeper’s Quarters (206) 463-9602 www.vashonparkdistrict.org
Quartermaster Cottage (206) 794-9451 www.quartermastercottage.com
Free
ay *2-dmum i n mi
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Northview Guest House We have plenty of room and a view at our 2,000 sq. ft. guest house on Vashon Island! 4 Bedrooms • Reasonable Rates* Tel: (206) 463-9181 • Fax (206) 463-6919 Email: northview@onvashon.com • www.onvashon.com
Swallow’s Nest Guest Cottages (800) ANY-NEST www.vashonislandcottages.com
Triplebrook Guest Cottage and Barn (206) 463-3386 www.triplebrookvashon.com
Villa Vashon Lodging & Events (206) 650-0766 info@villavashon.com
STAY WITH US OFFERING THREE HISTORIC BEACHFRONT VACATION RENTALS
EVENTS: Lighthouse Tours Weddings Kite Day Retreats Low Tide Festival There is no better way to experience Vashon Island than to vacation in one of Vashon Park District’s three historic rentals. The houses are all beachfront, sleep four to eight people, and come completely furnished. You just need to pack a lunch and grab your beach shoes. Point Robinson Lighthouse These are the original Keepers’ Quarters from a century ago. Watch huge cargo ships and maybe even the mighty orca—from your own front porch. Belle Baldwin House at Fern Cove Belle Baldwin was Washington State’s first female physician. The house is located in Fern Cove nature preserve and features second growth forest, two creeks and 750 feet of shoreline. It’s a birder’s paradise.
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PLACES TO STAY
Let your vacation be a great adventure. Take a day trip. Picnic. Find treasures in the Ship’s Store. Play. Hike. Kayak. Relax. Vashon: A halfhour from Seattle. A whole world away. Stay with us.
Contact us at: Vashon Park District P.O. Box 1608 Vashon Island, WA 98070 lodgings@vashonparks.org (206) 463-9602 For reservation information please visit at www.vashonparks.org/lodging
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Romantic Island Getaway... Maury Cottage
...a bed and bath experience! An elegant, northwest-style guest cottage featuring: t8FTUJOTM)FBWFOMZ#FE t0GVSPTPBLJOHUVC t$IBSNJOHLJUDIFO t1SJWBUFPVUEPPSEJOJOHBSFB t3FMBYJOH QBTUPSBMWJFX
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Come Visit a Very Special Place
HOSTING VISITORS TO VASHON SINCE 1981
MADRONA MEADOWS Bed & Barn
A A Relaxing Relaxing & & Peaceful Peaceful Retreat Retreat We’re We’re very very pet pet friendly! friendly! For Reservations Call (206) 295-6233 • www.madronameadowsbedandbarn.com
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COTTAGES with Kitchens Walk along the Beach Snuggle by a fire • Spectacular views
The Swallow’s Nest 1-800-ANY-NEST
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206-463-2646
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PLACES TO STAY
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PLACES OF
Worship ALL-MERCIFUL SAVIOUR ORTHODOX MONASTERY 9933 SW 268th St (south of Dockton) SUNDAYS: DIVINE LITURGY 10 a.m. – followed by Potluck – Visitors Welcome – Call 463-5918 www.vashonmonks.com • For gift shop hours, call the monastery
BETHEL CHURCH 14736 Bethel Lane SW 10 a.m. Sunday Service All are Welcome! We offer mid-week groups for kids (AWANA), teens and adults www.bethel-efc.org - Office: (206) 567-4255
BURTON COMMUNITY CHURCH 23905 Vashon Hwy S.W. Sunday Service - 11 a.m. www.burtonchurch.org • (206) 463-9977
ON OUR ISLAND
HAVURAT EE SHALOM 15401 Westside Hwy. S.W. Serving the spiritual, social, and intellectual needs of Vashon’s Jewish community Saturday Morning Torah Study 9:30-11:00 a.m. Shabbat service, third Friday 7:00 p.m. Wendy Marcus, service leader (206) 817-5036 • www.vashonhavurah.org
ST. JOHN VIANNEY CATHOLIC CHURCH 16100 115th Ave SW P.O. Box 308 Vashon, WA 98070 For Mass times and other information, please call or visit our website. Phone: (206) 567-4149 E-mail: vashonsjv@centurytel.net • www.stjohnvianneyvashon.com
VASHON PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 17708 Vashon Hwy. S.W. Sunday Worship - 10:00 a.m. • Pastor: Leigh Weber Church Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Phone: (206) 463-2010 E-mail: vashonpresbyterianchurch@yahoo.com www.vashonpreschurch.org
CALVARY FULL GOSPEL CHURCH at Lisabeula • 13107 S.W. 220th St Sunday Morning Worship/Children’s Church - 10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship- TBD Saturday Prayer - 7:30 p.m. Midweek Bible Study- Thursday 7:00 p.m. Pastor: Steve Sears Phone: (206) 463-2567 (church) • (206) 463-9635 (pastor) E-mail: stephen.sears@comcast.net
EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 15420 Vashon Highway S.W. Sunday Services: 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Religious Exploration and Childcare – 9 a.m. Thursday Mid-week Eucharist - 12:30 p.m. The Rev. Joseph Hickey-Tiernan, Priest in Charge The Rev. Ann Saunderson, Priest Associate Phone: (206) 567-4488 www.holyspiritvashon.org E-mail: office@holyspiritvashon.org
VASHON LUTHERAN CHURCH 18623 Vashon Hwy S.W. • P.O. Box 2930 Vashon, WA 98070 Sunday Service - 10:30 a.m. Pastor: The Rev. Joel Kutzke The Rev. Jeff Larson, Ph.D., Counseling Phone: (206) 463-2655 www.vashonlutheranchurch.org • E-mail: vlc98070@centurytel.net
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WORSHIP GUIDE
VASHON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 17928 Vashon Hwy. S.W. * P.O. Box 330, Vashon, WA 98070 Sunday Service -10:00 a.m. Adult Bible Study - Wednesday 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Paul Mitchell Phone: (206) 463-9804 • E-mail: office @vashonmethodist.org www.vashonmethodist.org • Look for us on Facebook
VASHON ISLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH 9318 SW Cemetery Road Worship Service 10:00 a.m. (Children’s Church for preschool–5th graders) Office Phone 463-3940 Pastors: Mike Ivaska and Tyler Winters www.vashonchurch.com
VASHON ISLAND UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP 23905 Vashon Hwy S.W. In Lewis Hall behind Burton Community Church Community, Diversity, Freedom of Belief, Enrichment of the Spirit Sunday Services - 9:45 a.m. Mid-September through Mid-June Religious Exploration for Children and Youth www.viuf.org • E-mail: administrator@vashonuu.org Phone: (206) 463-4775 • P.O. Box 1127 Vashon, WA 98070
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Marla Smith Photo
Marla Smith Photo
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egardless as to why you might choose Vashon as a wedding location — natural beauty, abundance of options, hometown — planning a wedding can be overwhelming. This island, with hundreds of locations from private residences to beaches, forests and farms, as well as many independent photographers, chefs and specialty shops, provides plenty to choose from.
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Thankfully, The Vashon-Maury Island Chamber of Commerce provides resources, such as a directory of providers and wedding profiles similar to the one you will find in this section. From caterers and bakers, to venues, musicians, photographers and officiants, it can all be found on the chamber’s Weddings on Vashon webpage: vashonchamber.com/pages/WeddingsonVashon. Chamber of commerce Executive Director Jim Marsh said it is important to note that Vashon is in demand on the wedding scene and dates fill up fast. He said the chamber used to host an annual weddings and events tour, but demand for weddings has been so high without it that it hasn’t been necessary since 2015. “Vashon’s popularity for weddings is huge,” he said. There are also a few other notes prospective Vashon couples should keep in mind: 1. Vashon has no big box stores so there may be a few things that may not be available on the island. 2. Think ahead when it comes to lodging. If you need overnight accommodations, Vashon’s choices are limited, so book early, especially for the summer months. 3. We’re always at the mercy of the ferries. Ferry schedules change with the seasons and boats can become delayed with heavy traffic in the summer and during holiday weekends; plan for the 10- to 20-minute ferry crossing from the mainland and for possible long delays. 4. Weather may not always cooperate. Even in the summer, weather can change quickly. Remember to be flexible. WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
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A destination wedding planned by the community By SARAH LOW Vashon Beachcomber Reporter
While a Vashon wedding might not immediately come to mind as the dream of every girl growing up in Boston, it was for Emily Haroz, who realized that dream when she married Jacob Taylor in the yard of her family’s summer home overlooking the waters of Quartermaster Harbor five years ago. Haroz’s mother, Elizabeth “Boo” Edmunds, grew up in Seattle and spent her summers on Vashon with her family. She continued that tradition with her own family, even though she had moved away to Boston. Raised with Vashon summers, Haroz has always held a special place in her heart for the island. “I loved Vashon so much growing up. It was so important to me that I wouldn’t invite any friends to come and spend time here with us, I didn’t want anyone else to have it,” she said with a laugh. In Taylor, Haroz finally found someone she wanted to share her special island with and brought him on a trip to Vashon one summer. Taylor not only fell in love with Haroz, but the island as well, and he proposed two months later. While choosing Vashon for the location of their wedding seemed to be a given, Haroz wasn’t sure she’d be able to pull it off. Now living in Baltimore, Maryland, how would she be able to plan and make all of the arrangements from so far away? Haroz said that Edmunds, knowing that there was really nowhere else her daughter would want to have her wedding, began to ask around for ideas on how to get things done through her network of
Marla Smith Photo
Emily Haroz and Jacob Taylor on the front steps of Haroz’s family home where they were married.
island friends. In typical Vashon fashion, the community responded, and Haroz and Taylor set their sights on the island wedding Haroz had always wanted. The couple decided to keep things simple and with
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WEDDINGS ON VASHON
(206) 335-4322
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a DIY focus, using as much local fare as possible. The location was the easy part, as Haroz’s family still had their summer house in Burton, and Haroz and Taylor wanted to have the ceremony in the yard facing the water. As Taylor is Jewish, they chose to be wed by a Rabbi and made their own Chuppah out of island driftwood. Certain elements for the day were handled by off-island businesses. Seattle-based Skillet took care of the catering with its own mobile trailer; tents, restrooms and the band for the reception also came from Seattle. Self-described as “not really one for shopping,” Haroz found her dress online through Anthropologie’s wedding site. But everything else was purely Vashon. Using the Burton Coffee Stand and its message board like a wedding coordinator’s command center, Haroz and Edmunds managed to take care of every other detail. Instead of a wedding cake, Haroz and Taylor decided to use Vashon’s abundant blackberries for cobbler and pies. Friends and family and even
kids who’d seen the event take shape via the coffee stand, picked the berries all summer. The Harbor Mercantile offered them space in a freezer to store them. Haroz even found her photographer when Edmunds posted a message at the coffee stand and five responded. Islander Sarah Perlman — formerly of the popular island music duo RedPerl — provided music for the ceremony, a connection that was once again made through the coffee stand. Flowers came from friends’ gardens in Burton as well as the Tacoma Flower Mart, arranged by islander Colleen James. Haroz’s hair and makeup were done by island salon owner Sarah St. Germain. Friends and family stayed in rental homes on the island, with the bride and groom’s wedding parties staying at Camp Burton and the Lavender Hill Farm, respectively. Now, Haroz and Taylor are parents to a daughter, Madeline. Perhaps young Madeline will follow in her mother’s Vashon summer footsteps, and grow up dreaming of her own island wedding.
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206-463-3685 19715 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070 WEDDINGS ON VASHON
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Venues: Vashon offers beaches, farms, forests, homes With beachfront parks, rustic farms and no shortage of diverse natural beauty, Vashon has a wide range of possibilities for couples tying the knot. The Beachcomber has compiled this non-exhaustive list to highlight venues in each category as a starting point. For a more complete list, check out the Vashon-Maury Island Chamber of Commerce website at vashonchamber. com/pages/WeddingsonVashon.
Parks Vashon’s diverse beauty is showcased through a wide variety of public parks that are more affordable options for a wedding venue than a private event space. Perhaps the island’s most popular outdoor area, Point Robinson Park, is home to a 100-year-old lighthouse surrounded by an open field. The area faces east,
capturing sweeping views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier’s glow at sunset. On the other side of the island, west-facing Lisabeula Park has a large grass lawn that runs up to the water. Sunset views over the Kitsap Peninsula can be caught here. While park weddings can be tricky to plan, generators and amenities such as extra restrooms can be brought in to island parks. Contact the Vashon Park District at vashonparks.org for more information.
Churches Vashon has a wide variety of churches ranging from traditional steeple-type buildings to more modern worship halls. Many also offer kitchens and reception halls. For couples seeking a classic venue, Burton Community Church is near a marina, and Havurat Ee Shalom, on
Nationally recognized planning & design for weddings, milestone & signature events Owned by Vashon local, serving Seattle & beyond jubilee-seattle.com 206.720.0383 64
WEDDINGS ON VASHON
the west side of the island, both are historic buildings best for a quaint island ceremony. If a larger wedding is in order, Vashon United Methodist Church offers the church and fellowship hall for rent.
Water views Vashon is known for its beautiful beaches — after all, it is an island. There are several waterfront locations that can be rented as wedding venues, including Camp Burton, which offers a shoreside lawn, as well as an indoor event hall with a view and kitchen facilities. Perched on a hill on Maury Island, Vashon Island Golf & Swim Club has views of Quartermaster Harbor and the Olympics, as well as a large outdoor deck and restaurant. At Villa Vashon, a venue affiliated with island business Herban Bloom, guests can watch the ferry
A unique farm venue for small events offering indoor and outdoor areas with optional lodging. 206 406 4229 www.cornerstonefarmvashon.com 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
sider one of the many venues showcasing the island’s wide-ranging array of plant life. At Lavender Hill Farm, weddings take place among fields of fragrant lavender with a view of Quartermaster Harbor and Mount Rainier. At Vashon Field and Pond, wedding ceremonies with up to 450 people take place on a huge field nestled between a large pond, madrona trees and flowers on a bluff with fabulous views of Mt. Rainier and Puget Sound. For a truly luxurious ceremony, Herban Feast’s Frogsongg Gardens offers 16 acres of English estate-inspired gardens with a stream that flows 150 feet from the top of the property to the bottom. It can accommodate up to 150 people and is available for events June through September. Marla Smith Photo
A couple seals their marriage with a kiss at Herban Feast’s venue, Froggsong Gardens.
come and go at its north-end location that’s right on the water.
Farms For a rural or rustic feel, consider renting an island farm or barn venue such as the Old Chaser Farm, Triplebrook Guest Cottage and Barn or the newly renovated space on the top floor of Cornerstone Farm’s yellow barn south of town.
Gardens For a wedding that is truly alive, con-
Washington State Ferries Since 2011, more than 950 special celebrations, including weddings, have taken place onboard Washington State Ferries’ 22 boats. But before deciding on a wedding at sea, there are a few points to consider. 1. Bring your own officiant: Captains and ferry crew members aren’t legally allowed to perform a wedding ceremony. 2. Ferry food only: No outside caterers or alcohol providers are allowed for ceremonies. 3. Expect a crowd: All ferry sailings are open to the public. Plan the ceremony accordingly, taking into consideration peak commute hours. Remember, WSF also
does not offer private rooms or separate event space. 4. Time constraints: Crossings to and from Vashon are no longer than 20 minutes (from West Seattle) so keep that in mind when planning a ceremony onboard a boat. Advance arrangements are required. To reserve space, contact WSF’s Johanna Karlin at 206-264-3556.
Vashon Field and Pond
A spectacular event venue on Vashon Island for your special celebration or event WEDDINGS REUNIONS
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WEDDINGS ON VASHON
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Grab local goods at farmers market For an immersive island experience, visit the Vashon Farmers Market. It’s the perfect place to buy fresh, organic produce, meat and dairy, flowers and a multitude of handcrafted products — look for everything from caramels and jewelry to hand-made soaps and socially responsible cosmetics. You’ll also find beer, cider and wine, prepared food, fresh-baked goods from the local bakery and even pet treats. The market runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday, from April through October 14, at the Village Green in the heart of town. From June through early September, a mini-market — produce and ingredient vendors only — is offered there on Wednesday afternoons, from 3 to 6 p.m. During the colder, more unpredictable weather of the season, October 21 through December 16, the market will relocate. Look for signs around town on Saturdays during that time frame to find out where. Throughout the market season you can enjoy live music from local and area artists, special guests, educational booths and themed contests and celebrations — such as September’s Harvest Market and CiderFest
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FARMERS MARKET
File Photo
Fresh fruits and vegetables on display at the Vashon Farmers Market.
in October, when island-grown apples steal the show. To get the weekly “fresh sheet,” or to see an interactive map of vendor booth locations, visit the Vashon Island Growers Association’s website, vigavashon.org. For musical guest listings, see vashonevents.com and click on “Farmers Market” in the menu along the top of the page.
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Vashon Island Farm Stands Accepting VIGA Coupons, Fresh Bucks and Tokens Se Accepta VIGA Cupón, Fresh Bucks and Tokens
1. Forest Garden Farm
6. Plum Forest Farm
2. GreenMan Farm
7. Cornerstone Farm and Dairy
Lisa Hasselman & Chris Hedgpeth 10515 SW 140th St Stocks Wednesdays and Sundays chris.hedgpeth@gmail. com/408.7299 Jasper & Will Forrester 8800 SW Dilworth Rd Stocks Wednesdays & Saturdays GreenManFarm@comcast.net, greenmanfarm.com
3. Northbourne Farm
Peter Smutko 16530 91st SW Will be open June 1st Best shopping Tuesdays & Fridays peter@northbourne.farm/ 919-609-8737
4. Vashon Farmlet
Brian Lowry & Cricket Carroll 10301 SW Cemetery Road vashonfarmlet@gmail.com
5. Pink Tractor Farm )EZI-EXǻIPH 10714 SW Cemetery Rd Stocks Daily 541-390-3783
Rob Peterson & Joanne Jewell 20020 107th Ave SW Stocks Tuesdays and Fridays plumforestfarm@gmail.com plumforestfarm.com Natalie Sheard 9215 SW 204th St Stocks Daily cornerstonefarm@gmail.com cornerstonefarmvashon.com
8. La Biondo Farm & Kitchen Karen Biondo 20602 111th Ave SW Stocks Mondays and Thursdays klbiondo@comcast.net, www.labiondofarm.com
9. Limping Duck Farm
Abby Antonelis 21431 Vashon Hwy SW Stocks Saturday and Sunday 206-851-3412 abby.l.faust@gmail.com
10. Burton Hill Farm and Dairy Collin Medeiros 23419 107th Ave SW Burtonhillfarms@gmail.com 567-0571
11. Sun Island Farm
Burton Dr in Front of the Harbor Mercantile Best shopping Wednesdays and Thursdays 939-9901 (Celina) & 939-9900 (Joe) sunislandfarm@gmail.com sunislandfarm.com
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Jen & Bob Keller 23720 Dockton Rd SW Stocks Daily/463-9002 jcparker613@hotmail.com, {±ÏĜĀÏÏųåŸƋţŅųč ƵƵƵţü±ÏåÆŅŅĩţÏŅĵx{±ÏĜĀÏųåŸƋ8±ųĵ
Vashon Farmers' Market Saturdays 10-2 April 2 - December Wednesdays 3-6 pm June - September
WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
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Michelle Crawford 27918 Vashon Hwy SW Stocks Daily/463-2750 michellecfarm@gmail.com ƵƵƵţü±ÏåÆŅŅĩţÏŅĵx{±ÏĜĀÏ{ŅƋ±čåų
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Drink locally ore than organic farms call Vashon home. In fact, this island boasts an impressive array of beverage producers. With five wineries, two ciderMarla Smith Photo ies, a distilling company and beer-maker, Vashon is the place to enjoy a cool beverage on a warm summer day.
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Handcrafted hard cider and perry, from apple to bottle right here on our farm.
WINERIES Alli Lanphear Vineyard & Winery is a small farm, vineyard and winery on the north end of Vashon. Owners Rebecca and Damon Lanphear say their wines truly represent the local, cool maritime growing conditions of the Puget Sound region. Varieties they grow and produce include pinot noir, chardonnay, siegerrebe and sauvignon blanc. Tastings: Tastings are by appointment. Find the winery on Facebook and call them at (206) 599-9228.
TASTING ROOM OPEN FRIDAY 3-6PM SATURDAY NOON-5PM SUNDAY NOON-5PM
Maury Island Winery is a small, family-owned and operated vineyard and winery dedicated to producing high-quality estate-grown wines. Owners Bill and Jan Riley grow several clones of pinot noir and pinot gris. The winery produces about 150 cases per year of pinot noir and a sparkling rosé called Crémant.
Dragonsheadcider.com
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Palouse Winery is conveniently located on the main highway on Vashon’s north end. Owners George & Linda Kirkish,whose bottles have won a slate of awards, complete the entire winemaking process on-site using Eastern Washington grapes. The wines are then aged for two years in French oak barrels and held in bottle for a year before they are released to be sold. The winery produces 1,500 cases of handcrafted wine a year. Tasting: Overlooking Colvos Passage, the winery is open for tastings from noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays year-round. Tastings or events can also be made by appointment. See palousewinery.com or call (206) 5674994. Vashon Winery is Vashon’s oldest winery. Owner Ron Irvine produces semillon, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and its reserve red from grapes grown in Eastern Washington and makes wine from 100 percent island-grown grapes. Irvine was named Best Winemaker of 2012 in the Seattle Weekly’s Best of Seattle edition. Irvine has also been gaining a following for his hard cider and his sparkling white wine.
18201 107TH AVENUE SW VASHON ISLAND, WA
facebook.com/dragonsheadcider instagram.com/dragonsheadcider
Tastings: Tastings are by appointment. Contact the Rileys at miwinery @ hotmail.com or (206) 595-3643.
Marla Smith Photo
Tastings: Vashon Winery is open for 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
free tastings from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 1 and for tastings and tours by appointment. See vashonwinery.com or call (206) 567-0055. Andrew Will Winery is the maker of several varieties of highly acclaimed wines, the small winery has made Vashon home since 1994 and produces about 4,500 cases of wine each year. The winery’s accolades include being named Wine & Spirits Top 100 Wineries list in 2016.
HIGH QUALITY ESTATE-GROW N WINES Open by Appointment M AU RY ISL A N DW I N E RY.COM
206.595.36 43
CIDER, BEER & SPIRITS With the success of wineries on Vashon, a crop of creative islanders began handcrafting other alcoholic beverages. The local companies produce bottles that rival those of the best-known makers. Nearly any type of drink you can
6927 SW M AU RY PA R K R D. VASHON-M AU RY ISL A N D
B E AUT Y B OT T L E D
WEEKENDS 12 PM TO 5PM
PALOUSE WINERY
12431 VASHON HWY SW VASHON ISLAND, WASHINGTON
W W W . P A L O U S E W I N E R Y. C O M O P E N F R I D A Y S B Y A P P O I N T M E N T O N LY
WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
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think of — beer, cider and liquor — is made and sold on Vashon. Dragon’s Head Cider, located near town and the historic Mukai Home and Garden, is made by a couple who use apples from both on- and off-island sources. They offer several varieties of cider, including one made from crabapples, and a perry.
Their tasting room is open on the weekends, and guests are invited to learn about their orchards and their process for making hard cider. Find them online for more information. Nashi Orchards is owned by Cheryl Lubbert and Jim Gerlach, who use sustainable practices to grow the finest Asian and European pears and heirloom apples to handcraft perry (made from pears) and hard cider. They are available at specialty shops and restaurants on Vashon; guests are also invited to call or stop by the orchard for a taste, tour and pick-up. Call Nashi Orchards at (206) 463-0358 or (206) 734-5551 and find them online. Seattle Distilling Company is a family-owned company on Vashon Island that has won awards for its offerings, which include gin, vodka, whisky and liqueur, which was featured on Today.com. The tasting room is open from noon
Carina Skrobecki Photography
to 5 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. Call Seattle Distilling at (206) 463-0830. Vashon Brewing Company, a boutique microbrewery, is owned by islander Cliff Goodman, who sells his beers both on- and off-island. The beers are handcrafted on Vashon Island, and many incorporate local
GROWLERS & GIFTS KEGS TO GO! 1 8 C R A F T B E E R S O N TA P 900 SPIRITS•200 WINES VA P E S & P I P E S M O N - S AT 1 0 A M - 8 P M SUN 10AM-6PM 206-463-2163 NEXT TO CHEVRON 1 7 8 0 3 VA S H O N H W Y S W # B Tasting event every First Friday! 70
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ingredients such as brewery-grown hops or island-grown elderberries. Current offerings range from Solstice Stout to Burton Blonde. He is in the process of opening a pub in town set to open in summer 2017. Visit vashonbrewing.com for updates on the project.
Open for tasting Saturday & Sunday 2-5 pm April 1st to October 1st
KOMBUCHA Behesht Kombucha is Vashon’s only producer and distributor of the fermented tea beverage. The company is owned by islander Leila Khatapoush who launched Behesht in the summer of 2016. Every batch is handmade by Khatapoush from locally sourced ingredients and is the product of more than 20 years of experience. Her kombucha can be found on-tap at the Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie, the island’s Saturday farmers market, the Vashon Theatre, Zombiez, Snapdragon and Thriftway.
Courtesy Photo
10317 SW 156th St (206) 567-0055 vashonwinery@yahoo.com vashonwinery.com
Handcrafted in the Heart of Puget Sound
Visit our new Pub! Opening Summer 2017, for updates visit Marla Smith Photo
WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
VashonBrewing.com LOCAL DRINKS
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Get your caffeine fix If alcohol isn’t your drink of choice, the island has plenty of local places to pick up a good old-fashioned cup of Washington coffee. Aside from many island restaurants offering caffeinated and decaffeinated versions of the popular beverage, coffee stands offer a true taste of the island’s character and a chance to interact with locals. The island has two stands serving up your caffeine fix of choice: AJ’s Espresso is located in town just north of Pandora’s Box pet store and offers customers the ability to either walk or drive up to the stand. Aj’s offers lattes, drip coffee, smoothies and even Italian sodas. The Burton Coffee Stand is a favorite among locals, located about five miles south of town in the waterfront community of Burton. Lines begin before the stand opens at 7 a.m. every morning and scones are served every Wednesday and Sunday.
Groceries • Fresh Produce • Fresh Meat In Store Smoked Ribs, Chicken, Salmon and Rotisserie Chicken Natural/Organic Products • Service Deli Large Selection of Wine, Beer & Liquor Video Rentals & Sales Lotto • MoneyGram • Money Orders Phone Cards • Puget Sound Energy Payments
O pen ’til 10 P
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Easy Parking located at 17639 100th Ave. SW, Vashon WA 98970
www.igamarketfresh.com • 206.463.9725
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Just around the corner. Whether you need just a gallon of milk or a full basket of groceries, we are convenient for all your shopping trips! Why waste gas driving any further than you need to? 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Join us for the 108th
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Visit vashonchamber.com for other great community events throughout the year: Tom Stewart Memorial Classic Car Parade July 23, 2017 CiderFest October 7, 2017 Trick-Or Treat Night Tuesday October 31, 2017 Shop Vashon Passport November 1 to November 30, 2017 Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting December 2nd, 2017 Spring Fling Easter Egg Hunt Saturday March 31, 2018 Visit our visitor center at 17141 Vashon Hwy, Vashon, WA 98070 or check us out online at www. vashonchamber.com, on Facebook: Vashon Chamber and on Twitter : @VashonChamber 206-463-6217
WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
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places to Eat SEE PAGES 74-81
FEEDING AND EATING VEGETARIANS SINCE 2012 /ZombiezVashon @ZombiezVashon 74
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Breakfast Bites, Burgers, Beer and
more… 17705 VASHON HWY SW VASHON, WA
206-463-7777 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
AJ’s Espresso
plant-based, gluten free food and desserts to live for!
As the island’s only drive-through coffee stand, AJ’s brews a mean cup of joe, and the baristas are always friendly. You can also pick up breakfast items, including burritos. A landscaped patio makes the small stand pleasant for walk-up customers.
Organic Kitchen & Juicery
Anu Rana’s Healthy Kitchen
Vashon, Washington
Located in the heart of town, Anu Rana’s offers coffee, tea and “junk-free” goodies. It is the place to find cookies, pies, snacks and more that are free of dairy, egg, soy, corn, wheat and rice with no refined sugar or preservatives. The heart-healthy, fresh products are hand-crafted on Vashon Island from 100 percent almond flour, nuts and dried fruits only. Maple syrup, honey, molasses and dates are used as sweeteners. Stop in for a meal or snack, or grab food to-go.
Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Sundays (Summer Hours) 11am-3pm
9925 SW Bank Road facebook.com/purevashon 206.259.3179
Bramble House This restaurant is celebrating its one-year anniversary in June 2017 and is the embodiment of a lifelong dream for Lia (Bardeen) Lira, an experienced chef who has worked in some of the world’s top restaurants and grew up spending time on Vashon. Bramble House occupies a 74-yearold house across the street from Ober Park at the north end of town, and features modern American fare, local drinks and ingredients as well as weekend brunch. The restaurant now also offers private dining for parties of two to 12 in the upstairs portion of the restaurant.
FOOD | DRINKS | HOME
OPEN Wednesday through Sunday for dinner Saturday & Sunday for brunch
Café Luna A warm and bustling cafe in the heart of downtown Vashon, Café Luna specializes in expertly crafted espresso drinks, but also boasts a full menu of made-from-scratch sweet and savory baked goods, a wide variety of organic salads made to order, unique grilled sandwiches, organic hand-crafted soups, exquisite quiche and much more. It has something for everyone, so stop in and take a look.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
17123 Vashon Hwy SW 206.408.7159
WWW.BRAMBLEVASHON.COM
AT
Immediately adjacent to the 9th hole, Maury Island’s only full service restaurant and lounge. Open to the public as well as all members.
Proprietary Full Membership Available Call for Pricing One Year Trial Membership $149 per month
Reservations & Hours 206-463-2005
Unlimited Golf, Tennis, Swimming and Dining Discount
Inquire about holding your special event in our banquet facilities with seating for 50-200. vgscoffice@gmail.com • vashongolfandswim.com • 24615 75th Ave. SW, Vashon, WA 98070
Zoe Officer, Membership • 206-463-9410 vgscmembership@gmail.com
WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
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husband Dre Neeley, who has cooked most recently at Seattle’s Cafe Presse, a French favorite. Gravy offers seasonal American eats with Southern and French influences, as well as barbeque on Sundays.
Asian fare for both vegetarians and meat-eaters. The Mongolian beef is particularly good, as are the Szechuan green beans, shrimp curry and almond chicken.
Gravy
Green Ginger Chinese Cuisine
Gravy is owned by Pepa Brower, an islander’s daughter, and her chef
The island’s only Chinese eatery, Green Ginger serves a variety of
Formerly Mileta Creek, Greenside Grill is part of the Vashon Golf & Swim Club and is open to the public. Perched on the hills above the course, overlooking Quartermaster Harbor and the Olympic Peninsula, the grill is the only restaurant on Maury Island and offers a wide range of American fare — salmon, steak, ribs, chicken, prime rib, burgers, fish and chips and pastas. It also has a full bar and an extensive wine list. In the summer, its large deck is open for outdoor dining.
Casa Bonita Since 1996, this small, family-run Mexican restaurant is a favorite among families. Casa Bonita offers up authentic, fresh chips and salsa, tamales, seafood, tacos, vegetarian entrees and a nice tortilla soup.
Orders To Go 206-356-5684 Mon.-Sat. 10am -7pm
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PLACES TO EAT
Greenside Grill
The Hardware Store Restaurant The Hardware Store Restaurant has been an island staple for nearly 12
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
years. A popular gathering place on the island, with a storied history, the restaurant serves upscale American food with a focus on Northwest cuisine. Everything served is made from scratch using local and all-natural ingredients to the extent possible. Join them for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Enjoy their delicious menu, craft cocktails, impressive wine list, barista bar and art gallery. Create your own memories in this historic place, named for the hardware store that originally occupied the building.
Coffee, Pastries, Sandwiches & More!! Free WiFi 206 . 463 . 0777 Please call ahead for special requests
La Playa Located at the north-end ferry dock, overlooking Puget Sound, La Playa family restaurant features authentic, fresh and delicious Mexican food and drinks at an affordable price. From enchiladas to tamales and fajitas, the restaurant is a perfect place to catch the sunset before a summer ferry home.
Hand Tossed
Open Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Sun 8am-6pm
w w w.cafelunavashon.com
CASA BONITA Mexican Restaurant
Gourmet/Traditional
Lunch & Dinner Daily 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Pasta & Salads
Enjoy our Patio Dining!
Hot Wings Outside Dining/Lounge Fireplace Families Welcome
we offer a full bar service
Lunch & Dinner Open Tuesday – Saturday
463-6813 17322 Vashon Hwy SW
WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
463-6452
17623 100th Ave SW
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Lucy’s Table Located inside the newly restored Burton Inn, Lucy’s Table opened in April 2017 and is Vashon’s newest eatery. Everything from the breads to the ketchup is made in-house from scratch by a team of three local chefs. Dinner offerings consist of Pacific Northwest comfort food like a burger bar, steak, spinach and artichoke
dip, potato skins and grilled chicken. Brunch is offered on weekends with classics like biscuits and gravy, along with quiches, breakfast pastries and mimosas. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, as well as a selection of local wine and beer.
May Kitchen + Bar The recipient of much praise in the restaurant world, May Kitchen + Bar
orca eats W h a t e v e r
i t
w a n t s
Find Vashon’s Food Truck: OrcaEats.com street food, catering & events
MAY KITCHEN + BAR DINNER • TAKE OUT
“But the pad thai is perhaps most memorable (and certainly most authentic): servers deliver banana leaf–wrapped parcels of noodles bathed in house-made tamarind sauce, mixed tableside with chiles, Chinese chives, bean sprouts, and bitter banana flowers.” – TRAVEL + LEISURE MAGAZINE Recognized May Kitchen + Bar as one of the 20 best Thai restaurants in the country.
“The Best Thai in Seattle is on Vashon”
DINERS ’ CHOICE AWARD Named within the top 100 best restaurants in America by Open Table diners THECULTURETRIP . COM Named one of the 10 best restaurants in Washington.
“We’re in New York right now, and I cast no aspersions on New York, but I haven’t found anything as good here as May.” – Shauna Ahern www.glutenfreegirl.com
– The Stranger
(206) 408-7196
maykitchen.com 17614 Vashon Hwy SW 78
PLACES TO EAT
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Vashon WA, 98070
offers food that some say is the best Thai food in the Seattle area. Run by chef May Chaleoy, the restaurant offers classics such as phad thai and curry dishes, along with a myriad of other authentic dishes and signature cocktails.
Orca Eats Orca Eats serves quick, delicious food on Vashon’s streets and at events. The menu changes weekly, with fresh, seasonal, real food always offered. The truck is open April through October at the weekly farmers market and for lunches in the Vashon Market IGA parking lot. Food truck schedule, location and weekly menu are posted at OrcaEats.com. Entrees, sandwiches, salads, sides, truck-made desserts and beverages are all available — stop by for a meal, snack or take out to feed your pod. Orca Eats also caters private events.
Perry’s Vashon Burgers For inexpensive and simple eats, Perry’s is the place to go. Located in a small house at the south end of town across from the movie theater, Perry’s offers burgers under $6, as well as french fries, corn dogs and milkshakes.
Pure Organic Cafe & Juicery For those looking for health foods, vegan and gluten-free options on Vashon, Pure is a cozy health and wellness kitchen serving up feel-good food, including organic soups, fresh green juices, salads, Buddha bowls and handmade vegan desserts. Unique weekly specials include its locally famous raw vegan pizza (served Wednesdays and Saturdays) featured in Seattle Weekly’s Voracious Food Blog. Pure has a plant-based menu and dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Red Bicycle Bistro & Sushi Locals call it ”The Bike” and it is the hub of Vashon’s music scene. With live bands playing every Friday night, the 2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Come Enjoy the Friendliest in “Island” Hospitality • Custom built, quality pizzas from our brick oven in 90 seconds. • Best patio dining in town! Right along the main street. • Frosted beer mugs – the Island’s coldest! • Salads, Wings, Beer, Wine, 138 flavors of Soda and frosted mug, refillable floats. • Family Friendly. • Island owned and operated.
If you are what you eat; we’re fast, easy and cheap!
17636 Vashon Hwy SW • www.Saucysisters.biz • 206-463-7743 WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
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eatery offers a variety of food from sushi and other Japanese delicacies to cheeseburgers and french fries, as well as a full bar.
There is limited outdoor seating and a big-screen TV and fireplace inside. The Rock offers a full bar with many choices of draft beer. Families are welcome.
Rock Island Pub & Pizza
Saucy Sisters Brick Oven Pizzeria
Known as “The Rock” to locals, Vashon’s oldest pizza parlor has a loyal following. The restaurant has creative pizza recipes, original salads and pastas, as well as wings and ribs.
A local family-owned pizzeria, Saucy Sisters serves custom-built pizzas, assembled right in front of you, that cook in their brick oven in less than 90
GREEN GINGER CHINESE CUISINE Lunch - Dinner - Takeout
Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 9pm Sunday 12pm - 9pm air conditioned - banquets - beer & wine
463-7788
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9851 SW Bank Road, Vashon Island
seconds. Build your own and choose from three types of homemade dough, seven sauces, three cheeses and more than 25 fresh toppings or try one of their house specialty or flavorful featured pizzas. The restaurant offers patio dining under their palm trees right on the main highway. Serving the best in island hospitality, there are frosted mugs for beer, floats and ice cream sundaes and more than 140 flavors of soda from the island’s only Coke Freestyle machine.
Snapdragon Bakery & Cafe Snapdragon is Vashon Island’s “home sweet home.” Featuring vegetarian dishes and delicious baked goods — think gigantic, fresh cinnamon rolls and cookies. Snapdragon’s cozy and welcoming environment beckons patrons to relax within its secret garden patio and listen to live music while taking in the unique art gallery. A full bar called “Home Sweet Home” opened in an adjoining space to the eatery in 2016.
Mon-Fri 5:30 am - 3:30 pm Sat 7 am - 3 pm Sun 8 am - 2 pm
Drive-up Espresso Featuring Organic Vashon Coffee Organic milk and milk alternatives
Serving
IA
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– –Z
Breakfast Burritos & Baked goods
17639–100TH AVE SW • OPEN 12-8 SUN, MON, TUES & THURS (CLOSED WED) • 12-9 FRI & SAT
Get $50 for $40 Cash or Check Only
MENTION THIS AD AND GET A FREE PASTA WITH THE PURCHASE OF ANY LARGE PIZZA. SUN THRU THURS ONLY.
Conveniently located on Vashon Hwy SW on the north end of town
HIDDEN BETWEEN VASHON DANCE ACADEMY AND VASHON MARKET ( I.G.A.) 80
PLACES TO EAT
2017-2018 DESTINATION VASHON
Sporty’s Known for its hearty breakfasts, Sporty’s is a casual eatery and bar located in the heart of town between the pharmacy and local clothing store, The President of Me. Serving hearty food such as chicken fried steak, the spot is a local hangout and the bar is bustling in the evenings.
Vashon Eagles Vashon’s chapter of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles is open to the public for dinner on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. It also offers lunch on Thursdays and breakfast on Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon. The dinner menu varies nightly, usually offering one item — tacos on Tuesday, burgers on Wednesday and prime rib every fourth Friday. Breakfasts include a wide range of items. Proceeds benefit local charities.
Vashon Pizza The only pizza delivery on the island, Vashon Pizza offers almost a dozen original pizzas. The small pizza parlor located between Vashon Market IGA and Vashon Dance Academy also makes delicious calzones and cheese bread.
The Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie & Minglement This place is known worldwide as one of the original Northwest “specialty coffee� roasters and is the birthplace of Seattle’s Best Coffee. Locals know The Roasterie is a place to find fresh roasted coffee, loose leaf tea, organic pastries, organic hearty breakfast and lunch fare as well as locally hand-crafted kombucha, beer, wines and ciders on tap.
Breakfast Lunch Live Entertainment
0QFOEBZTBXFFLrBNmBN Family run business for over 30 years
17611 Vashon Hwy SW ★ Where the Locals Go!
ZuZu’s Ice Cream Vashon’s Obsession
Located behind the Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie
Ice Cream in the Back... How Cool is That? 19529 Vashon Hwy SW
Vashon Eagles #3144
Vashon Island Baking Company Vashon Island Baking Company is a popular local bakery. It specializes in hand-crafted croissants, seasonal pies, savory pastries, buttercream celebration cakes and coffee and espresso from The Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie. Visit the bakery in the heart of town.
Zamorana Zamorana serves authentic Mexican food. With indoor and outdoor seating, Zamorana is perfect for a quick meal between island adventures. Named after owner and cook Jorge Garnica’s hometown, he makes tacos, tortas and burritos similar to what he enjoyed growing up there.
Zombiez Not your typical fast food place, this family-owned business serves quality food made to order. Hand-cut fries, hand-dipped fish and chips, house-made sauces, grassfed beef, ice cream, grab n’ go breakfast, beer, wine and more grace the menu. Dine in or drive through its passenger-side drive through. Zombiez also caters, everything from simple bites to five-course wine dinners. WWW.VASHONBEACHCOMBER.COM
$40.00 yearly memberships
Great food Served Daily, Prime Rib dinner Last Friday of the month Family Friendly Atmosphere,
Pet Friendly Grounds
Short Term camping and RV hook up available inquire about our annual events such as the Luau, the rib cook off and the Easter Egg HUnt
All Proceeds to beneďŹ t island
charities and nonproďŹ ts Dining and events always open to the public VASHON EAGLES #3144 • 18134 Vashon Hwy SW
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206.463.5477
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Windermere Vashon
People come to Vashon for a connection to the land they live on. There are those who enjoy growing their own food, those who love designing beautiful landscapes, and those who simply want to take in the view. We believe there is a perfect place for everyone who loves Vashon.
While our business may be about housing, our work is about people.
It’s All About YOU!
WindermereVashon.com
www.
Windermere Vashon ◊ 17233 Vashon Hwy SW ◊ PO Box 1867 ◊ 206-463-9148
Snapdragon
Rustic Bakery & Savoury Cafe Catering for All Occassions Cocktails
•
Bar Open Late
•
Live Music
Wednesday thru Sunday 9 am - 8 pm
206 463 1310
Beer & Wine • Garden Patio 17817 Vashon Hwy, Vashon WA 98070
Celebrating 110+ years at “Center” The Historic Heart of Vashon Island
This building has been many things to many people in the 110+ years it has stood. From general store to dance hall, from feed shop to most famously, the birthplace of Seattle’s Best Coffee. Today both the Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie and the Minglement proudly call it home and humbly carry on in these traditions of meaning.
Heart
www.tvicr.com www.facebook.com/tvicr www.twitter.com/tvicr
Known worldwide as one of the original NW specialty coffee roasters and the home of Heirloom®Coffee, locals also know us as the place to find over 300 herbs, spices and loose leaf teas, organic non-GMO pastries, breakfast, and lunch fare, groceries, local produce, health supplements, gifts, kombucha, and local beer and ciders on tap.
History
People
Place
206-463-9800 19529 Vashon Highway SW Vashon WA 98070
Published on May 24, 2017
i20170523180510648.pdf
Published on May 24, 2017
i20170523180510648.pdf