Opinion Stories - San Juan Islands

More thoughts on the Border Patrol protecting the U.S. from San Juan Islanders

I have often been prompted to write concerning the Border Patrol actions at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal, but others have already expressed excellent points of view over the past four months. But two recent events have finally spurred me to action. The first was that I ran across a lead article on the subject in this week’s Seattle Weekly, with the great cover “Rough Seize – kicking Juans out of the San Juans,” in which several Orcas Islanders told their stories. The second: today (June 18) getting herded into the customs enclosure in Anacortes yet again (fifth time) for a citizenship check. So here goes.

A time to fly for Orcas graduates

At the graduation ceremonies signaling the beginning of a new era for 22 Orcas High School graduates, it was difficult to leave, not only because of the celebration and happiness, but also because the time when we could look out for them, guide them and watch over them is ending.

Stewards of the future

In thinking about and reporting on the school budget situation, we’ve gone into the records from last year, and those from the Sounder archives two, three and four years back. And we’re struck by the progress that has been made.

Superintendent sets the tone for district

School’s out for summer, but not for the Superintendent, Glenn Harris. His desk, as usual, is covered with paperwork for 15 to 20 projects demanding documentation, decisions, consultation, research, communication, or all of the above.

Wrightsman counsels middle and high school

Like many of the teachers at Orcas Island High/Middle School, Nancy Wrightsman constantly changes her job “hats.” Arriving on Orcas Island in 1995, she already had many years of teaching experience behind her. She taught as a substitute for one year and then accepted the job of school counselor. Wrightsman remains in that position, but also teaches classes both in the middle and high school.

Orcas' Coldwell Banker closure heralds end of an era

It is not being overly-dramatic to say that, with the closing of the Coldwell Banker Orcas Island (CBOI) office, an era has ended: the era when the real estate business flourished on Orcas Island, when prominent Realtors and Brokers such as Wally Gudgell, Stu Stevens and Rusty Post started their careers with Pat Pomeroy and Coldwell Banker Orcas Island.

Keep entire hospital process open | Editorial

The San Juan Hospital District Commission approved on June 18 a letter of intent that clears the way for the district and PeaceHealth to explore in more depth the feasibility of a new integrated medical center on San Juan Island. In our June 25 editorial, we recommended the commission approve the letter of intent and explore with more depth the unanswered questions regarding the medical center. But we also urged the commission to keep the process open. That’s why we’re disturbed by the fact that the commission adopted the letter of intent without public discussion.

INS must have more important things to do

I have often been prompted to write concerning the Border Patrol actions at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal; others have already expressed excellent points of view over the past four months.

We need to nourish the roots of our culture | Editor's Notebook

How many more people will be inspired by this public art that tells Terry Fox and Steve Fonyo’s stories? What force for change might this be? How many of us might be inspired to look beyond our own perceived limitations and reach to exceed our grasp?

San Juan hospital: We like it, but have questions | Editorial

A lot of questions need to be answered about the feasibility of an integrated medical center on San Juan Island. We encourage the San Juan Hospital District Commission, which oversees Inter Island Medical Center and San Juan EMS, to approve the letter of intent that will allow a study that will answer those questions.

Students are making progress with biodiesel

When we began the Friday Harbor High School biodiesel project three weeks ago, we had no idea all the little things it would entail.

Coveted pedestal on the bumpy road to freedom

They didn’t see it, all those who deserved to. It simply took too long and they were unable to wait.

San Juan Rotarians are helping write polio’s final chapter

It isn’t every organization that receives a $100 million matching grant from the Gates Foundation. Then again, Rotary International isn’t just any organization.

San Juans, state blessed with choices in '08 | Editorial

Shortage of local candidates? That’s so last year. You’re going to have to study for the Aug. 19 and Nov. 4 elections. And that’s a good thing — a field of candidates results in a discussion of ideas and issues. Campaigns and candidate forums allow us to get to know those vying for the opportunity to make decisions on our behalf.