Here’s a thought…
“The competition between Nature and the economy is deep and broad.
In the short term, the economy usually wins. In the long term …?”
BILL APPEL
Update on Library Expansion and Levy Lid Lift
Library construction of a new wing continues with pouring the concrete slab for its foundation or "footprint" -- from Phil Heikkinen, Director, Orcas Island Public Library-- Construction of the Orcas Island Public Library
Fire Risk Status “HIGH” – Only Recreational Fires Allowed
-- from Robert Low, SJC Fire Marshal -- Due to current fuel conditions and the long range weather forecast, San Juan County has changed its fire risk status from “EXTREME” to “HIGH. This will limit burning to
Superintendent Looks Forward to New School Year
-- from Superintendent Eric Webb -- Fall is in the air, and September is rapidly approaching. I love September……….. the first day of school is on the horizon, and the learning and fun will once
Deer Harbor Bridge Construction Update
-- from John A. Van Lund -- The top photo shows the existing wood bridge in front of the newly constructed temporary vehicle and pedestrian bridges. The bottom left and right photos show the
OMC / Island Hospital Contract for Patient Care to Expire in December
-- by Lin McNulty -- With the contract to maintain patient services at Orcas Medical Center (OMC) set to expire on December 31, 2016, Orcas Medical Foundation Board (OMF) and Island Hospital have been in negotiations
Celebrate Return of Salmon With Salmon BBQ
Saturday, September 3, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., RSVP Required -- from Daniel Poppe -- The Salmon Homecoming, sponsored by Long Live the Kings and Nootka Marine Adventures, celebrates the return of Chinook to the
Response from Orcas Island Fire and Rescue District
-- from Acting Chief Scott Williams and representatives of San Juan County Fire District #2 -- We are responding to comments from community members to recent news (see orcasissues.com/coffin-resigns-fire-commission-dicaprio-appointed/) regarding the Fire District. We appreciate
School Music Program Supporters Have Their Say at Board Meeting
-- by Margie Doyle -- Members of the community spoke of the need and benefits of an adequate classroom to accommodate the growing School Strings Music Program, at the regular Orcas Island School District (OISD)
Letter to the Editor: Does Eastsound Still Need Architectural Design Standards?
-- by John Campbell, Chairman, Eastsound Design Review Committee-- History: 25 years ago there was a general outcry in favor of minimum architectural standards in response to a big dowdy building that engulfed a treasured
Public Meeting on Updated Deer Harbor Hamlet Plan
Wednesday, August 31, 4 - 6 p.m., Deer Harbor Community Club -- from Colin Maycock -- San Juan County Department of Community Development will host a public meeting on Wednesday, August 31, 2016, between 4
Coffin Resigns from Fire Commission; DiCaprio Appointed
-- by Margie Doyle, Updated Aug. 23 at 9 p.m.-- Commissioner Jim Coffin, far left, announced his resignation at the OIFR commission meeting. He will be replaced by TJ DiCaprio (next to him). Barbara
Guest Opinion: OPAL Working on Local Home Mortgage Fund
-- by Alexander Conrad -- A recent guest opinion by Ken Wood suggested one approach to increasing the affordability of housing. The [opinion] illustrated how the cost of capital (i.e. interest rates and terms) impact
Entering Phase III: School District Starts Community Discussions
-- by Margie Doyle, updated Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. -- The Phase III School bond is discussed on a tour through the high school weight room with, from left, "Way Forward" Facilitator Fred
Hard Workers Abound on Orcas Island: Let’s Honor Them!
-- by Lin McNulty and Margie Doyle -- For a tourist, vacation "paradise," many year-round Orcas Island residents are renowned for their work ethic, which seems to be "Life is uncertain, get your work done
Deer Harbor Hamlet Plan Update Set for Public Review, Comments
Wednesday, August 31, 4 - 6 p.m., Deer Harbor Community Club -- from Colin Maycock, SJC Community Development -- On Wednesday, August 31, 2016 between 4 pm and 6 pm at the Deer Harbor Community Club, 4319