Governor, AG Release Trans Mountain Expansion Statement
-- from Offiice of the Attorney General-- "We are agree with the federal court system in Canada that further assessment of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project is necessary. Because this project will result in a seven-fold increase of oil tankers departing from British Columbia ports, we must have a
San Juan Free Dental Clinic Canceled
-- from Hayley Day for Fish for Teeth -- It is with deep regret that the Fish for Teeth Board has canceled the Oct. 4-6 free dental clinics in the San Juans. Due to last-minute cancellations, the board is unable to staff the van with dental professionals. This is the
Fire Commission Recognizes Bedell’s Service
-- by Susan McBain, Orcas Issues reporter -- At an October 1 special meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners, the four commissioners attending—Tim Fuller, Jim Helminski, Amanda Montague and chair Wes Heinmiller (by phone)—expressed their regret at the resignation of long-time Commissioner Barbara Bedell. They noted she had been
Letter to Editor | Jewett Will Be Ideal District Court Judge
-- from Eleanor Hoague -- I strongly endorse Carolyn Jewett for Judge in District Court, a court that deals primarily with misdemeanors. Not only does she have the necessary experience, intellect, and judgment, but she has the ever-so-important temperament to carry out the duties of a judge. Ms. Jewett was
October 2018 Update from the Port Team
-- from Orcas Island Airport Master Plan Team -- The Port of Orcas website has been updated with the presentation and questions and answers from the Public Open House held on September 19, 2018. Please remember all public comments regarding the preferred alternative must be submitted by midnight on Friday,
Letter to Editor | Kudos to Gaylord and His Staff
-- from Warren Appleton -- I recently testified in the court of San Juan County. I want to commend Carolyn Jewett DPA, Kim Lambie, and Heather Smith for the excellent work they do for the San Juan County Prosecuting Attorney’s office. I have testified in over 70 cases and 20
Letter to Editor | YES For Homes is Vital
-- from Pegi Groundwater -- I am writing to urge voters to support the Yes for Homes ballot measure in November. We are extremely fortunate to live on these beautiful islands, but staying here is a daily struggle for many of the people who provide the services that we all
Letter to Editor | Make Home Fund Happen
-- from Susan Grout -- You know how you always say how much you love San Juan County and how grateful you are to live here? You know how you feel when you come home from a trip off-island and the ferry touches the dock and you think, “Ah, home.”
Port of Orcas Master Plan Comments Due October 5
-- by Orcas Issues reporter Matthew Gilbert -- The last chance to share your views with decision-makers about the Port’s proposed 20-year Master Plan has arrived. The public comment period officially ends Friday, October 5. If you haven’t seen the final draft plan, go HERE. Before you do, you might
Ferries … Late
-- from Washington State Ferries -- Due to earlier delays caused by required Coast Guard safety drills, the M/V Samish left Friday Harbor an estimated 90 minutes behind schedule for a late 4:15 pm to Lopez and Anacortes. This also delays the Anacortes 6:00 pm to Lopez and Friday Harbor
Poetry: Testimony
Testimony -- by Lin McNulty -- Can you tell us in your own words what happened? My own words? I can only use the words of women who have dared to speak out loud for eons. Assault? Fear? Rape? Terror? I can use these all too common words. But what
Guest Opinion | Keep Eastsound Airport a Rural BII Short Runway
-- from Clark Cundy -- Please take time and get some coffee. If you take time to read this, thank you for your time. In August, 2018 I posted a few ideas about Keeping Eastsound Airport a Rural Airport. Now a few weeks and meetings have gone by and the
WA State Fails to Consider Orca in Skagit Refinery Project
-- from Stand.Earth -- On Friday, September 28, the Washington State Shoreline Hearings Board dismissed arguments made by a coalition of environmental organizations and more than 7,500 residents, upholding a key permit for Marathon Oil’s (formerly Andeavor and previously known as Tesoro) Anacortes Refinery to begin manufacturing and exporting xylenes
Learn to Make a Drip Garden
Wednesday, October 17, 10 a.m., Orcas Center -- from Helen Huber for Orcas Garden Club -- The Orcas Island Garden Club welcomes Ryan T. Palmateer from the San Juan Islands Conservation District on Wednesday, October 17 at 10 a.m. at the Orcas Center. Ryan will speak about creating your own
Letter to Editor | Gaylord is Ethical, Knowledgeable, Competent, Compassionate
-- from Charles Silverman -- For 30 years I served as a criminal deputy prosecutor in Washington 26 years for the people of San Juan County, of which 20 were under Prosecuting Attorney Randy Gaylord. The people in San Juan County are fortunate that he wants to serve another term.
Farmers Market Moves Indoors for Fall Festival
Saturday, October 6, 11 a.m - 2 p.m., Odd Fellows Hall -- from Orcas Island Farmers Market -- Orcas Island Farmers Market is moving to the Odd Fellows. Help us kick off the Fall Market season and join us for Fall Festival. We will have food vendors, delicious baked goods
