Anacortes Today

Fidalgo celebrates ‘outdoor classroom’

Steve Berentson — Thu, 17 May 2012 22:01:27 +0000

Among key players in the six-year journey to completion of Fidalgo School’s outdoor learning shelter (inset) were designer Gerry Cook and fifth grade teacher Sally Doran. Fidalgo students celebrated completion of the shelter under sunny afternoon skies Thursday, May 17, serving as hosts to numerous guests including Anacortes School Board member Karl Yost, who with Doran is credited with “planting the seed” for this project. Principal Tara Dowd thanked an impressive team of partners including Granite Construction. Cook is a retired employee of the U.S. Park Service, responsible for the design of similar structures at North Cascades Learning Institute.

ANACORTES TODAY
About Steve Berentson: A fourth generation Skagit County native who was moved kicking and screaming from this island community in 1960. I finally reclaimed an Anacortes address in 1980, and I have been in constant celebration of my return since that time. Many of us who call Anacortes home love Fidalgo Island for its natural assets: among them are rugged beaches, pristine lakes, thousands of acres of forestland and some awesome views of the Skagit Valley and surrounding islands. Another element of my love affair with this community is its people, both natives and immigrants. They will “star” in many of my journal entries.

Trawlers return to Anacortes

Steve Berentson — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:43:15 +0000

Once again this year, boaters are arriving in Anacortes for the PassageMaker Trawler Fest, a weekend gathering preceded by several days of “continuing education” opportunities in the big tent erected near the Harbormaster’s Office at Cap Sante Boat Haven. Trawler Fest, “the premier U.S. motor boating event,” holds other gatherings in large cities including San Diego and Baltimore. The majority of Trawler Fest participants will arrive for the coming weekend. Analysis shows average local expenditures of $525 per boat, not including fuel. There are more than two dozen other boat “rendezvous” scheduled at Cap Sante Boat Haven so far this year.

Images at dawn

Steve Berentson — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:47:01 +0000

I like early morning, but photographer friend Del Zane took advantage of REALLY EARLY morning light to take these shots recently from Cap Sante. Thanks for sharing, Del.

http://www.delzane.com/

Bunny on a hill

Steve Berentson — Wed, 16 May 2012 17:35:19 +0000

I encountered this little bunny this morning as we shared a panoramic view of the city from Cap Sante.

The future of city water

Steve Berentson — Wed, 16 May 2012 13:19:30 +0000

Construction continues at the City of Anacortes Water Treatment Plant on the Skagit River in Mount Vernon. This $57 million expansion project is by far the largest and most expensive capital project the city has undertaken, noted Mayor Dean Maxwell recently. In fact, it may be the largest publicly funded non-transportation project ever in Skagit County. Plant improvements began in January 2011, with completion anticipated in the spring of 2013. Improvements include new pretreatment and filter facilities, clear wells, intermediate and high service pump stations, a new chemical building and standby generators that will run the facility in the event of a power disruption. When construction is complete, the plant will have a capacity of 42 million gallons per day (MGD) with the potential to produce 55 MGD.

Sunrise at Seafarers’

Steve Berentson — Tue, 15 May 2012 14:49:37 +0000

Anacortes resident Del Zane captured this image last week at sunrise, taking advantage of our beautiful spring weather to shoot a fascinating series of photos at Seafarers’ Memorial Park on Fidalgo Bay. To see more of Del’s work, visit: http://www.delzane.com/

Cruising speed

Steve Berentson — Mon, 14 May 2012 17:42:30 +0000

I was in search of a Mt. Baker shot when this bald eagle cruised by, moving fast enough so that I was only able to snap two frames. I’m told that Tommy Thompson walkers near the old plywood mill site … Continue reading →

Salvation Army honors volunteers

Steve Berentson — Sat, 12 May 2012 13:59:07 +0000

Salvation Army Anacortes Corps officers Josh and Ryan Boyd hosted a dessert reception Friday night to honor volunteers who play critical roles at the service center on “R” Avenue. Among those honored were Andrea Saxton, Carollei Lamourux, Les Christianson, Pat Mooney, Bud Strom, Vera Oakes, Kim DeLong, Bud Bourbeau and Food Bank Coordinator Paula John. Volunteers racked up more than 2,000 hours of service in the last year, said Lt. Josh.

Salvation Army thanks volunteers

Steve Berentson — Sat, 12 May 2012 04:14:26 +0000

Kim DeLong (left) was among volunteers honored Friday night by Salvation Army Anacortes Corps officers Lt. Josh and Lt. Ryan (pictured) Boyd. The officers extended heartfelt thanks to food bank director Paula John, a team of volunteers and advisory board members for their contributions of time and talents to help serve those in need who call upon the Salvation Army for assistance. Cumulative Anacortes volunteer time exceeded 2,000 hours. If you are interested in making a financial contribution to the Anacortes Corps, click the Salvation Army banner ad on the bottom of this page.

Storvik Park music

Steve Berentson — Fri, 11 May 2012 16:34:13 +0000

Among many entertainment options at the city’s beautiful Storvik Park is this chime set, tucked away not too far from the entry to the large playground built by volunteers several years ago. Sadly, there has been some vandalism including removal of striking “wands” at wooden chime posts. Still, there are many creative options in addition to climbing and swinging. Don’t miss the small stage, complete with a bench for an audience.

Sweet twilight

Steve Berentson — Fri, 11 May 2012 00:51:00 +0000

The sunny days have been so welcome … and the evening light has been breathtaking. Last night on the way home from watching sailboat races I took the opportunity to chase the light a bit downtown. Among the shots was … Continue reading →

Racing Fidalgo Bay

Steve Berentson — Thu, 10 May 2012 04:19:42 +0000

It was a beautiful evening for a sailboat race — if you didn’t mind the idea of coming home a bit wet. Members of the Anacortes Yacht Club participated in week two of the club’s weekly race series on Fidalgo Bay. Admirers gathered on Cap Sante, many headed for the AYC club after the race to share food and a few race stories. At least one sailor could tell the tale of a brief dip in the bay. By the way, one of these photos includes a man with a message printed on the back of his sweatshirt. It reads: “Emoyeni: Gotta Sail Faster.”

Race, interrupted

Steve Berentson — Thu, 10 May 2012 04:07:57 +0000

Under normal circumstances this would have appeared to be a marine crisis, but for this Wednesday night sailing crew from the Anacortes Yacht Club, it was just another day at the races. Seconds after this frame was snapped, the sailors righted their boat near the refinery wharf and continued on with their race. Wednesday marked the second weekly race since the spring series began. See more photos under Racing Fidalgo Bay in the Activities section.

Weighty encounter

Steve Berentson — Wed, 09 May 2012 23:49:08 +0000

Virtually everything looks big when you’re two years old, but this vintage ship’s anchor at Seafarers’ Memorial Park is impressive no matter what your age.

Anacortes nails tournament win

Steve Berentson — Tue, 08 May 2012 23:46:18 +0000

Anacortes High School’s baseball team jumped Lakewood Tuesday, May 8 in an 11-3 tournament win that included a grand slam home run by Marcus Anstensen. Pitcher A.J. Yost got the win. Next game is Saturday, May 12 at Daniels field.

A day to remember

Steve Berentson — Tue, 08 May 2012 23:33:16 +0000

It was a great afternoon for the Anacortes Seahawks baseball team — and a particularly notable day for player Marcus Anstensen, pictured here with his father Ted following the game. Anacortes defeated Lakewood 11-3. Anstensen accounting for seven of those runs as he blasted two home runs, one of which was a grand slam. The Northwest District 1 2A Baseball Tournament continues Saturday at Daniels Field in Anacortes.

First runner up

Steve Berentson — Tue, 08 May 2012 21:54:41 +0000

I learned many years ago as a photographer to take the occasional glance over the shoulder while pursuing a target. This policy proved to be a good one the other night when I was at Cap Sante “stalking” the full … Continue reading →

Sailing duo

Steve Berentson — Mon, 07 May 2012 23:06:12 +0000

This pair of skippers takes the opening of the boating season seriously, opting for a Monday afternoon that includes a sail on Fidalgo Bay. The two sailboats are sister ships. On the left is SV Little Annie, a 1993 Beneteau … Continue reading →

Swain made his mark in Anacortes

Steve Berentson — Mon, 07 May 2012 17:42:46 +0000

He was a life-long boater; an ex-Marine who dabbled in politics at local and federal levels. He was Spencer Swain, a one-time Anacortes Port Commissioner memorialized Saturday with recollections of his contributions and presentation of a commemorative plaque that will be placed on a bench at Cap Sante Boat Haven. Presentation of the plaque was made by Port Executive Director Bob Hyde (foreground); remarks recalling some of his contributions by Port Commissioner Pat Mooney (right). See more photos and information about Swain in the Activities section under “Spencer Swain memorialized.”

St. Mary’s in the moonlight

Steve Berentson — Sun, 06 May 2012 20:51:48 +0000

My “full moon adventure” Saturday night took me by St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Anacortes, where I shot this image while waiting for the moon to re-emerge from behind clouds.

Full moon over Fidalgo

Steve Berentson — Sun, 06 May 2012 05:39:21 +0000

I was among more than a dozen or two folks gathered at Cap Sante Saturday night for the rising of the full moon, visible here with Tesoro tanks, the Shell wharf in the foreground.

Spencer Swain memorialized

Steve Berentson — Sat, 05 May 2012 20:56:51 +0000

Honored Saturday, May 5 at a opening day of boating season event in Anacortes was the late Spencer Swain. Swain, who died June 8, 2011, had moved to Anacortes in 1991 to be close to the water and enjoy life cruising and racing his new Non-Such, “Nessie.” According to his obituary, Swain took up boating at age six. He “never really retired, being active in the Anacortes Yacht Club as a member and Commodore, as an elected Commissioner for the Port of Anacortes, as an instigator of the small boat and youth sailing programs, as a member of the American Legion, as a organizer and participant in annual veterans’ activities, and a proud member of the Quiet Birdmen.” Swain will be honored by the Port of Anacortes with a plaque to be mounted on a bench in the North Basin area of Cap Sante Boat Haven. Among speakers honoring Swain were Port Commissioner Pat Mooney (fellow ex-Marine) and Port Executive Director Bob Hyde. Swain’s widow, Meilen, was on hand for the ceremony.

Boating Season 2012 under way

Steve Berentson — Sat, 05 May 2012 19:53:48 +0000

In keeping with tradition, a few dozen folks including these boat owners gathered at Cap Sante Boat Haven to mark the opening of Boating Season. Port of Anacortes Executive Director Bob Hyde presided over an informal program that included cannon blast, guest speakers, sea shanties, presentation of ‘burgees’ (pennants) and the boat parade. Acknowledged for his years of service to the Port District and the boating community was the late Spencer Swain. Post event refreshments were provided by Anthony’s Restaurant.

Raindrops lead spring parade

Steve Berentson — Fri, 04 May 2012 18:36:14 +0000

I know the sunshine is on its way, but I was awakened early this morning by the pitter patter of raindrops on the roof … the gurgle of gathered water spilling through downspouts. Hoping for sunshine so I can continue … Continue reading →

Chuckanut beauty

Steve Berentson — Fri, 04 May 2012 05:21:25 +0000

Son Mark chased a sunset Wednesday night, and was also treated to discovery of this beautiful waterfall along Chuckanut Drive. Nice shot!

Street of commerce

Steve Berentson — Thu, 03 May 2012 14:09:45 +0000

Much of the city’s business activity takes place along this north-south arterial known as Commercial Avenue. A newcomer might get the impression that there is ferry service available at the north end of the street. While that was once true decades ago, the fact is the state ferry in this photo is in drydock for maintenance at Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) boatyard on the Guemes Channel. The state ferry runs out of Ship Harbor on the west side of Fidalgo Island.

Welcome to Tree City

Steve Berentson — Wed, 02 May 2012 17:59:27 +0000

U.S., Canadian and “Tree City” flags greet travelers entering the city by way of Highway 20 and the Commercial Avenue roundabout.

Tough angle

Steve Berentson — Tue, 01 May 2012 14:34:43 +0000

I got the effect I was seeking when I aligned a blue glass orb with the center of a nearby windmill, but I couldn’t eliminate the power line from the shot. The windmill turns at a south side residence near … Continue reading →

Trebon tells Funk story

Steve Berentson — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:57:47 +0000

Undaunted by a massive collection of photographs and negatives, historian Theresa Trebon partnered with photojournalist Wallie Funk in the late Nineties to help put order to his collection so he could share it with libraries, museums and universities. Trebon, author of “First Views, An Early History of Skagit County,” presented slides and commentary at Funk’s 90th birthday celebration Sunday, April 29 at The Depot in Anacortes.

All-America revisited

Steve Berentson — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 03:56:55 +0000

Among birthday surprises received by 90-year-old Wallie Funk Sunday was an All-American City banner re-created by the Anacortes Museum and presented by museum representative Bret Lunsford. Funk and former Anacortes Mayor Bud Strom were instrumental in this city’s distinction as an All-America City in 1962.