Anacortes Today

Prez Day stars and stripes

Steve Berentson — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:45:47 +0000

A flag-lined Commercial Avenue was relatively quiet Monday morning as Presidents Day 2012 opened a new week. Government offices, schools and banks were closed, but shops and restaurants are open. I started the day with the Starbucks crowd, moving on … Continue reading →

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.

Suffocating defense leads to state

Steve Berentson — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:34:54 +0000

Anacortes boys basketball players bounced back in a big way from a district playoffs loss earlier in the week, defeating Sultan 66-42 Thursday night to secure a bid in the state 2A tournament. The Seahawks’ next game will be Saturday night in Mount Vernon against Lynden. The winner of that game will be the No. 3 seed from the district at state and the loser will be the No. 4 seed. This photograph was taken during pre-game warm-ups last week against Archbishop Murphy.

Approaching finish line

Steve Berentson — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:08:08 +0000

You know a construction project is close to wrapping up when they remove the porta-potties. That was the case Friday morning at Cap Sante Boat Haven, where contractors wrap up the E&F docks project that features 138 new slips served by new utilities including power, water and sewer. Cultbertson Marine Construction served as general contractor on this Port of Anacortes project, with subs including AMO Mechanical, PNW Electrical and Bellingham Marine Industries (Bellingham-based manufacturer of concrete monolithic docks). The project will likely be completed next week, in plenty of time to make preparations for the Spring Anacortes Boat Show and the Anacortes Salmon Derby in March.

Wall acknowledges hospital benefactors

Steve Berentson — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:13:16 +0000

Enter the main lobby of Island Hospital and you will discover a wall dedicated to acknowledgement of contributors to the public hospital. For more information on the hospital and/or ways you can offer support, visit www.islandhospitalfoundation.com.

School district crafts pilot program

Steve Berentson — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:22:24 +0000

Anacortes School District Superintendent Chris Borgen (left) addresses a small crowd at a Monday night session focused on the district’s creation of a pilot teacher/principal evaluation program (TPEP). The bulk of the informative session was led by TPEP group representatives Jenny Beltramini (right) and Mt. Erie Principal Peter Donaldson (center). Anacortes is one of three school districts selected to present final program proposals for consideration for statewide application some time in the future. In addition to performance evaluation, the Anacortes proposal includes focus on opportunity for professional growth and attention to improved student achievement. Review, selection and adoption of TPEP proposals is expected to take place over the next year or two. One possibility is that school districts will be allowed to select from among the three proposals currently being finalized.

Drum line, er, circle!

Steve Berentson — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 20:49:46 +0000

Saturday night’s boys basketball game featured music by members of the AHS Band, some of whom gathered in a circle on court following the Hawks’ 63-55 victory over Archbishop Murphy. The music was a great element of an exciting evening. The next game is Tuesday night in Mount Vernon, Anacortes versus Cedarcrest.

Postseason begins with a win

Steve Berentson — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 05:03:09 +0000

Anacortes Seahawks boys basketball opened postseason play with a Saturday night win over Archbishop Murphy, 63-55. Although the visitors closed within four points at one time in the second half, the Seahawks maintained a lead throughout, playing steady and cool.

Theatre puts out the message

Steve Berentson — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:05:44 +0000

In addition to a coat of paint, recent improvements at ACT Theatre (Anacortes Community Theatre) include this sign and a reader board listing upcoming productions. Currently the musical comedy “Iron Curtain” provides opportunity for local thespians to show their stuff. The comedy, directed by Julie Johnson Lindsey, runs through February 25. For more information about the theatre, see www.acttheatre.com.

Annual ‘State of City’ address

Steve Berentson — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:40:25 +0000

Despite ongoing concerns about the economy and fears about how Olympia will react to a massive budget shortfall, Anacortes Mayor Dean Maxwell reported Thursday that our municipal government is once again operating in the black. The presentation was made to a full-house audience of Anacortes Chamber of Commerce members. Also on hand were port commissioners Bill Short and Keith Rubin as well as County Commissioner Ron Wesen. The Mayor is pictured here speaking to the crowd, and after the speech in conversation with Puget Sound Energy representative Brian Gentry. For the Mayor’s full report, see http://www.cityofanacortes.org/Mayor/Documents/StateCity.pdf

Mayor Dean draws capacity crowd

Steve Berentson — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:26:29 +0000

Anacortes Chamber of Commerce Director Stephanie Hamilton characterized Mayor Dean Maxwell as a “rock star” at Thursday’s Chamber luncheon. “He’s like the Ted Nugent of Anacortes,” said Hamilton, who noted that the mayor always attracts a capacity crowd. Maxwell’s annual “state of the city” report acknowledged on several occasions the difficulties of operating a municipal government in a lousy economy. Among those he lauded, however, were dedicated city staffers, council members … and citizen volunteers who save the city a great deal of money. The mayor referenced a Sister Cities trip to Russia, where he was again reminded: “I live in the best small community in America.” Full remarks from the mayor’s speech are posted at http://www.cityofanacortes.org/Mayor/Documents/StateCity.pdf

Full moon inspiration

Steve Berentson — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 04:24:07 +0000

Take one palm tree, add a full moon … and you’ve got a very creative Fidalgo Island image. Creator/photographer was Tyler Starkovich, who was gracious enough to share his photo with AnacortesToday.com. Look for more of Tyler’s photos in the future.

Promise of things to come

Steve Berentson — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:26:26 +0000

I know it’s early. I know I’ll likely be scraping ice from my windshield again soon. I remember that it snowed during the Anacortes Salmon Derby just a couple of years back (late March!). But I just couldn’t help myself this afternoon. Inspired by the sun and a brief outing for lunch at Gere-a-Deli, I grabbed my camera and headed for the back yard. Sure enough, I discovered dozens of furry little buds like this on our apple tree. The evidence is clear: Spring 2012 is on its way!

Port hits the Internet to promote marina

Steve Berentson — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:51:05 +0000

Local video producer Laurie Lyon summarizes the focus of a new video funded by the Port of Anacortes: “This video is a bit like a ‘walkabout’ in and around Cap Sante Boat Haven, with friendly Harbormaster Dale Fowler. Executive Director Bob Hyde and Dale welcome you to Cap Sante Boat Haven, an amazingly beautiful place, with stellar amenities for boaters, plus great events and entertainment. All within walking distance of the docks. I had a great time shooting this and working with the Port staff. I hope you enjoy this video and will visit soon!”

Setting sun, rising moon

Steve Berentson — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:45:31 +0000

I started out for Cap Sante late this afternoon, but I never made it, opting instead to head for “T” Avenue and the views from the community’s “industrial” area. Featured here are Mt. Baker, the moon and a tanker at the Shell Puget Sound Refinery wharf.

Up, up and away

Steve Berentson — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:13:46 +0000

A beautiful February evening and the open space of “T” Avenue provided a great opportunity for this remote control airplane operator to show his stuff. Quite a climb on this maneuver…

KVOS TV station sold

Steve Berentson — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:15:58 +0000

I just learned that the sale of KVOS has been finalized and now most of its employees have been laid off, effective around March 5. KVOS will remain on the air and will continue to be an affiliate of the MeTV network. As a former print journalist, I can relate to the trauma being experienced by many as traditional media wrestles with challenges posed by new technology and an abysmal economy. Newport Television, LLC signed an agreement last month to sell Bellingham’s KVOS-TV to OTA Broadcasting. OTA is based in Reston, Virginia. Earlier this year, OTA bought KFFV-TV in Seattle. According to the Seattle Times, OTA is a subsidiary of MSD Capital, an investment firm controlled by computer tycoon Michael Dell. Newport had owned KVOS since 2008.

Read more here: http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2011/12/02/2295742/bellingham-television-kvos-to.html#storylink=cpy

Object of retirement dreams

Steve Berentson — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:56 +0000

Light and textures differ from corner to corner of Cap Sante Boat Haven, this community’s public marina and waterfront showplace. Pleasure boats like this Nordic feature prominently in the retirement dreams of many Northwest residents.

San Juan Passage feature

Steve Berentson — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:47:22 +0000

This amphitheatre-like area is a gift to community from the developer of San Juan Passage. Many recognize local landscape artist Mike Harris’ talent in this design.

South Bluff preservation efforts

Steve Berentson — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:13:50 +0000

It’s common sense, really, but I find myself resisting directives to minimize damage to a fragile bluff ecosystem by “staying on the trail.” This photograph was taken at the “summit” of Washington Park’s Loop Road, where an interpretive sign encourages … Continue reading →

Classic Northwest shoreline

Steve Berentson — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:17:03 +0000

There are seasons when the traffic is lighter at Washington Park’s Sunset Beach, but there is definitely no “off season” for this Northwest classic. And it’s owned by the public! Captured this image Wednesday from the trees near the entrance … Continue reading →

Steel span against orange sky

Steve Berentson — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:44:24 +0000

Except for days when the entire area is socked in with fog, there are no “off” days at Deception Pass. This stunning sunset photo was taken by friend Wayne Martin (not sure when). Once again, Wayne, thanks for sharing!

Sun draws walkers to trails

Steve Berentson — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:52:54 +0000

Beautiful Monday weather drew walkers outside to high traffic haunts including Tommy Thompson Trail and Washington Park Loop Road. Pictured here is friendly pedestrian Dale Green. I admitted to Mr. Green the guilt I feel when rolling by walkers in … Continue reading →

New electronic message sign

Steve Berentson — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:38:06 +0000

New this week to the family of electronic reader boards in Anacortes is the Island Hospital Medical Arts Pavilion (MAP) sign at the corner of 25th Street and Commercial Avenue. This little piece of real estate was once occupied by … Continue reading →

Name these Anacortes musicians

Steve Berentson — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:38:56 +0000

The place was Causland Park, and the event was … well, one of the most important days in the lives of two young Anacortesans. Now the question: Who are the two musicians pictured here?

Dramatic changes in past few years

Steve Berentson — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:36:51 +0000

As evidenced by this photograph from December 2006, there have been dramatic changes at Cap Sante Boat Haven. In this photo, C&D docks are being replaced. Today, just a few weeks remain on a project to replace E&F docks. At the time of this photo, the current CSBH boat launch had yet to be built (2007), and The Cannery (not pictured) was under construction. Cap Sante Marine has since moved to the north end of the city, and the tiny “Captain’s Place” restaurant site is now the site of Anthony’s Restaurant. Also completed since 2006 are marina features including esplanade and fuel dock, not to mention the amazing cleanup and restoration of neighboring Seafarers’ Memorial Park. More change on the horizon as Anacortes seeks to capitalize on its shoreline.

Dock project right on schedule

Steve Berentson — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:29:47 +0000

Pictured Monday at Cap Sante Boat Haven is Port of Anacortes Project Manager Jenkins Dossen. Dossen reports that the Port’s team of contractors for new E&F docks (pictured in the harbor below) is on schedule to have the slips ready several weeks before the 2012 Anacortes Salmon Derby that brings hundreds of fishermen and guests to town. In addition to the slips, a business component of the project will be an activity float that ties slips together for groups that want to gather on the water. General contractor on the E&F docks project is Culbertson Marine Construction of Anacortes.

Beaner named Port Employee of Year

Steve Berentson — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:15:47 +0000

Honored recently at a session of the Port of Anacortes Board of Commissioners was Maintenance and Operations Supervisor Josh Beaner. Beaner, who has worked for the Port District since he graduated from Anacortes High School in 1995, was named 2011 Employee of the Year. A certificate presentation was made by outgoing Board President Keith Rubin (left). On the same night, Commissioner Pat Mooney was elected board president for 2012; Bill Short, vice president; Ray Niver, secretary.

Treatment plant draws national spotlight

Steve Berentson — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 01:08:02 +0000

Granted, the circulation of this magazine doesn’t compare to that of Sunset magazine, but it’s national attention nonetheless as TPO magazine includes a six-page spread on the city’s award winning wastewater treatment plant. TPO is an acronym for Treatment Plant Operator. I was pleased to partner recently with writer Trude Witham as the magazine featured the Anacortes plant as one of its “top performers” in the February 2012 issue. The article, which opens with a two-page spread featuring plant operator Lou Zurcher (see photo), is titled “Making the Grade.” A subhead reads: “The City of Anacortes transitioned from two primary plants to a new secondary plant, meeting permit specifications and winning six awards.” To see this article and to learn more about the people who operate it, visit http://www.tpomag.com/ezine

Hospital shows off new facilities

Steve Berentson — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:48:24 +0000

Tuesday night was an exciting evening for Island Hospital staff, administrators and commissioners, many of whom participated in “guided tours” of new facilities at the new Medical Arts Pavilion. Participating in the ribbon cutting were hospital CEO Vince Oliver, Mayor Dean Maxwell and hospital commissioners Laurie Gere, Jan Iversen, Dr. Chip Bogosian and Dr. Paul Maughan. Not pictured: Commissioner Dr. Buzz Ely.

Crowd enjoys hospital open house

Steve Berentson — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:53:57 +0000

Island Hospital Board of Commissioners President Laurie Gere speaks at the Tuesday evening opening of Island Hospital’s new Medical Arts Pavilion (MAP). She was joined by hospital CEO Vince Oliver (right). The public was invited to an open house that started with a ribbon-cutting, followed by refreshments and tours with professional staff. The 26,000 sq. ft. MAP is located on the east side of the Island Hospital campus and houses the new Advanced Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine Center as well as expanded Merle Cancer Care Center and Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy center.