Mitchell Hill, a 312-acre chunk of land that includes trails and a pristine portion of road built beginning in 1853 by the Hudson’s Bay Co., is expected to become part of San Juan Island National Historical Park once Congress approves the 2010 federal budget. The fiscal year began Oct. 1, but budget approval is being held up by the debate on health care reform. The 2009 budget wasn’t approved until April.
When I was on my way to Lopez the other morning, it was beautiful. A gorgeous clear blue sky, crisp autumn air, and calm, smooth water. But instead of relaxing and enjoying it, I was thinking on how I should answer Mayor Jones’ article in the paper without making him an enemy. There are only two people I hold in high regard and respect tremendously; they are my Grandfather and David Jones. So why bother running for mayor if it’s going to alienate my friends? Because there must be a choice.
Leslie Byron says was been a quiet summer for the Friday Harbor Animal Shelter. With a marmalade cat at her ankles and Halloween pumpkins at the door, the place does exude a certain peace.
It is way past time for the council to make ferry matters among its highest priorities, to inform itself, and to advocate strongly and clearly on behalf of our interests. It could start by demanding that the lost Capron funds either be returned to the county or, at the very least, be credited toward lowering our interisland fares rather than used to make up for overall ferry financing.
Marty and Tara Hulse announce the birth of their son, Ryder Martin, on Oct. 3, 2009. Ryder Martin was born in Island Hospital in Anacortes. He weighed 5 pounds 7 ounces and was 18.25 inches in length.
San Juan County’s Elections officials are asking local voters to check the return address on their ballot envelopes. According to Elections officials, included in a recent shipment of local ballots were some envelopes with return addresses located in Asotin County.
Grand opening is Nov. 13, beginning at 4 p.m., for Mary Oettinger’s San Juan Vacation Rentals LLC, located at 100 First St., Suite A.
Beverages and hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
For those in search of Halloween fun, Friday Harbor has a trick-or-treat-astic array of activities planned. Kicking off a weekend of costume creativity is Friday Harbor Elementary School. The students’ annual costume parade is Friday, 1 p.m., on Spring Street.
On Nov. 7, all World War II veterans, spouses, widows and widowers will be honored by American Legion Post 163 as guests of the club. Past commander Karl Mueller, event chairman, said two tickets will be given to each honoree. A reading of the names of all WWII members who have passed away will be read during the evening program by Legion personnel.
As Congress debates the details of President Obama’s plan for reforming health care coverage, state Sen. Kevin Ranker will host a town hall forum to hear from 40th District constituents and help inform residents about any potential changes in Washington.
Local musician Teddy Deane said two signs supporting San Juan County Proposition 1 were stolen from his property. He posted a third sign, which states, “You can steal my sign, but you can’t steal my vote. Yes on Prop. 1.”
Citizens Alliance for Property Rights San Juan will present a report, “Property Rights Regulations in San Juan County,” Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., at the San Juan Island Grange. Guest panelists include Richard Civille, John Evans and Bob Levinson.
The 40th Legislative District Democrats have endorsed Referendum 71 and formally opposed Initiative 1033 on Tuesday’s ballot. The Democrats met Oct. 10 in the San Juan Island Grange in Friday Harbor. State Sen. Kevin Ranker, D-Anacortes, attended, speaking about the state budget, bills he’s co-sponsored and bills that are becoming law.
