Events under 'Community'

Geologist Gene Kiver, author of the recent book Washington Rocks!, provides an overview of our state’s geologic history and describes some sites with outstanding geologic features.

Wed., Jan. 11, 7pm at the library

Winter Farmers Market inside the Depot, 7th & R Ave in Anacortes. 

Winter Farmers Market inside the Depot, 7th & R Ave in Anacortes. 

Coffee with Officer Karl - Anacortes Senior Activity Center  - Community Service Officer Karl Wolfswinkel with the

Anacortes Police Department will offer crime prevention tips and answer questions participants have about APD or police work in general. Officer Karl is holding informal coffee hours to meet with citizens and listen to their concerns at various locations.  "Coffee with Officer Karl" is at the Anacortes Senior Activity Center on    Tuesday, February 14 @ 10:00 AM. Call 360.293.4684 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Gain the tools to overcome any barriers that come your way and learn where to go and what to prepare to get exactly what you need today! Presented by Mount Vernon Goodwill Job Training and Education Center. Tues, Feb. 28, 2:30-4pm at the library.

Explore the many training program options in the region and the funding opportunities available to help you get started on your journey. Presented by Mount Vernon Goodwill Job Training and Education Center. Tues, Feb. 28, 6:30-8pm at the library.

Ben McBroom, author/lecturer on political philosophy and moderator of the Socrates Cafe philosophy club, delineates the fundamental philosophic logic and polemical strategies historically employed by authoritarian political regimes — such as fascist, Marxist and theocratic — to bind populations in a condition of intellectual, economic and political subjugation. This is the final program in a 3-part series.

Authoritarian Worldview Series - A Moral Twilight Zone: Authoritarian Theories of Morality and Justice

Wed., Mar. 1, 7pm at the library

Anacortes Police Chief Bonnie Bowers continues the discussion on diversity and inclusion in this fourth and final program of the series. Chief Bowers, other local law enforcement officials and representatives from the Skagit Immigrants Rights Council discuss how federal immigration laws are applied locally and what steps local law enforcement has taken to build trust with our immigrant community. 

At the library

Winter Farmers Market inside the Depot, 7th & R Ave in Anacortes. 

Retired U.S. Navy aircrewman Kenny Holzemer explains GrowingVeterans.org, a nonprofit he leads that helps soldiers of all eras reintegrate into society after active service. The organization was founded by a group of farmers and veterans who saw working the earth as therapeutic and envisioned sustainable agriculture as a holistic approach to veteran issues. The nonprofit empowers military veterans to grow food, communities and each other, thus ending the isolation that can lead to serious veteran problems.

At the library

Every week new artifacts arrive at the Anacortes Museum and old documents surface from the far reaches of the museum collection. At this entertaining slideshow, museum education curator Bret Lunsford displays and discusses a “new” batch of fun facts and artifacts compiled from actual research questions, sometimes leading to surprising stories and historical discoveries. Email your own curiosities to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; they may even end up in this presentation. 

At the library

Swinomish Casino & Lodge is hosting a grand opening event to celebrate Moka Joe Coffee’s second location — and we’d like you to come by and share the excitement with us. 

Join us on Friday, April 7, any time from 10am to noon, with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10:30am, to support your local business, Moka Joe Coffee. You can win some great prizes, including complimentary coffee, Moka Joe Coffee tumblers and other fun prizes. 

We hope you stop in to celebrate Moka Joe Coffee’s new expansion with us. We encourage you to share this exciting news with friends, family and other community members. If you would like official event documents, please send me an email. Come out for some tasty bites and a quick pick-me-up to see what all the buzz is about!

Winter Farmers Market inside the Depot, 7th & R Ave in Anacortes. 

Art, Therapy, Wellness: The Art of Journaling. Members of the Anacortes Arts Commission explore the benefits of art, specifically how writing and drawing affect our health and minds. Wed., April 12, 7pm at the library.

Whose Lane Is It? Sharing the Road with Cyclists. League of American Cyclists Certified Instructor Kim Sharpe explains how motorists, cyclists and pedestrians can navigate roads safely when people on bikes are present. She discusses traffic safety laws and responsibilities for cyclists, motorists and pedestrians alike. Wed., April 19, 7pm at the library.

1st Monday, 5-6:30pm 
May 1 -- meet upstairs by the fireplace - at the library
The Library is hosting a series of 3 monthly Silent Book Club meet-ups, which has no assigned reading. Started in San Francisco, the Silent Book Club is now an international community of bookworms who meet to carve out more time for just reading. If there is enough interest after the first 3 meetings, the Silent Book Club will continue through the summer and into the fall.

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

City of Anacortes Residential Spring Clean Up Saturday, May 13, 2017 from 9 am-noon, Operations Facility, D Avenue and 37th Street. Gate will close promptly at 12 noon. The line of traffic can sometimes be very long, please arrive early to ensure you get through the gate before closing.

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

1st Monday, 5-6:30pm 
May 1 -- meet upstairs by the fireplace - at the library
The Library is hosting a series of 3 monthly Silent Book Club meet-ups, which has no assigned reading. Started in San Francisco, the Silent Book Club is now an international community of bookworms who meet to carve out more time for just reading. If there is enough interest after the first 3 meetings, the Silent Book Club will continue through the summer and into the fall.

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

1st Monday, 5-6:30pm 
May 1 -- meet upstairs by the fireplace - at the library
The Library is hosting a series of 3 monthly Silent Book Club meet-ups, which has no assigned reading. Started in San Francisco, the Silent Book Club is now an international community of bookworms who meet to carve out more time for just reading. If there is enough interest after the first 3 meetings, the Silent Book Club will continue through the summer and into the fall.

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

National Night Out 2017 will take place on Tuesday, August 1st from 6-8PM in Storvik Park. The event is a public demonstration of resident, business, and civic partnerships with the goal of reducing crime in our community. National Night Out is a free, family-friendly event with the goal of heightening crime prevention awareness and strengthening police-community partnerships. Last year’s event was a huge success with hundreds of community members in attendance. The agenda for 2017 includes several interactive booths with demonstrations and activities for all ages. Please join us! 

Contact CSO Wolfswinkel at the Anacortes Police Department with questions, (360) 293-4684 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

The Samish Indian Nation has a deep history in our region and is excited to share it with the community at this year's Skagit County Fair Samish Day of Sharing. Fair guests will have a chance to talk with tribe members, see a traditional dugout canoe on display, learn about teachings of the canoes, talk with tribal artists and try some traditional techniques.

The one-day event happens Friday, August 11 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. At the Skagit County Fair.

The Samish Nation, also known as “The Giving People”, is excited to share its experiences and culture with the Skagit community through this special event.

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Each year the Friends of Skagit Beaches Trail Tales volunteers host a National Estuaries Day celebration as our way of celebrating National Estuaries Week sponsored by the organizations listed below. We have teamed up with the Skagit Marine Resources Committee's Fidalgo Bay Day event, which celebrates one of Skagit County's most important protected estuaries.

Pick up your Trail Tales "Discovery Passport" and explore the trail stations sponsored by a variety of organizations, talk to our docents, get your passport stamped, and there's a prize when you fill your passport. at Fidalgo Bay Resort.

Saturday, August 12, 2017 11:00 am - 3:00 pm at Fidalgo Bay Resort

For more information:

Fidalgo Bay Day

Friends of Skagit Beaches Discovery Passports.

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

The Anacortes Public Library will take a three-day break for Labor Day weekend.

The Anacortes Public Library will take a three-day break for Labor Day weekend.

The Anacortes Public Library will take a three-day break for Labor Day weekend.

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Celebrate democracy in the U.S. and register to vote in the upcoming local and state elections, which have a direct impact on our daily lives.

If you’re eligible but not yet registered to vote in Washington state, this non-partisan effort makes it quick and convenient, with voter registration forms and volunteers to assist.

Every year millions of Americans don’t claim their right to vote because they miss a deadline, move, change names, or don’t know how to register in the first place. With over a quarter of Americans not voting at all, National Voter Registration Day is an opportunity for our nation to build a more representative democracy. 

This local event is a partnership of the Anacortes Public Library and the Skagit League of Women Voters.

Tues., Sept. 26, 11am – 7pm, Anacortes Public Library

Elaine Walker, Anacortes Museum Curator of Collections, provides a visual history of local residential architecture as featured in the Museum’s current exhibit. In her slideshow, Elaine shares images from the exhibit as well as other images that didn’t make it into the exhibit. She also offers a Q&A session on how to get started researching and documenting your own historic home.  

Wed., Sept. 27, 7pm at the library.

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Every Saturday in summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market takes over the Depot Plaza at 611 R Ave, 

Humanities Washington and Socrates Cafe sponsor philosophy instructor Mike VanQuickenborne exploring the philosophical implications of sports. Wednesday, November 1, 7:00 pm at the library.

The Silent Book Club meets just to read, with no assigned books. Started in San Francisco, the Silent Book Club is now an international community of bookworms who meet to carve out more time just for reading. At the library.

Monday, November 6, 5-6:30pm. Meet upstairs by the fireplace.

The Silent Book Club meets just to read, with no assigned books. Started in San Francisco, the Silent Book Club is now an international community of bookworms who meet to carve out more time just for reading. Monday, December 4, 5-6:30pm. Meet upstairs by the fireplace at the library.

Say farewell to retiring Anacortes Museum Director Steve Oakley, see Burl Ives’ holiday decorations, and check out the festive “At Home in Anacortes” exhibit during the annual Holiday Open House hosted by the Anacortes Museum Foundation from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, in the Carnegie Gallery, 1305 8th St. Holiday Open House and Annual Meeting 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14

The public is invited to join the Mayor and City Council in thanking outgoing Councilmember Erica Pickett for her 34 years of public service. A reception to honor Ms. Pickett will occur immediately following the Anacortes City Council meeting, which begins at 6pm, on December 18 in the Anacortes Council Chambers located at 904 6^th Street.

Councilmember Erica Pickett began her volunteer career in 1983 when she was appointed to the Forest Advisory Board. Ms. Pickett was appointed to the Planning Commission in 1984 and continued serving on the Planning Commission until she was elected to City Council in 2006.

Please have your trees visible at the curb by 9am.  No wires, tinsel or flock on the trees.  City residents only.  A canned food donation is appreciated! Pick up by Kiwanis and KEY club. 

Biological Invasions: How Species Become Invasive

Please join us for the first of our 2018 Lecture Series! Hear about how the success, impacts, and long-term effects of introduced populations determine whether or not they become invasive species. Dr. Emily Grayson , PhD, Univ. of Washington, Washington Sea Grant, will illustrate these potentially environment changing processes with real-time examples.

The Salish Sea: Where it is - How  it works - Who uses it - What it means

How do you go about naming three interconnected bodies of water that encompass 7,000 square miles and span an international border.  Marine biologist, Dr. Bert Webber, Prof. Emeritus Environmental Science, WWU, Huxley College; Founding Fellow WWU Salish Sea Inst., answers that question! The unique estuary ecosystem made up of Puget Sound, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the Strait of Georgia needed a distinct name that could unify efforts to protect and restore these bodies of water and reflect the region’s indigenous history. Lectures are free and open to the public. Sponsored by Friends of Skagit Beaches. www.skagitbeaches.org.  For more information please contact Matt Kerschbaum: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Join us in welcoming Ruth Barefoot, the new director of our library. Stop by the Main Floor of the library to say hello and enjoy refreshments.  Saturday, April 7, 2:00-4:00 pm at the library

Community invited to participate in AHS History Wall Project.  Artist Mary Ennes Davis has been commissioned to create a public art installation in the new Anacortes High School. The piece will include the history of the schools, the significance of the location of Anacortes, and reflections that represent the uniqueness of the schools, prominent Anacortes figures and early days of the town. 

Input can include stories, memories or photographs--anything that pertains to the history of the schools. Mary and museum representatives will be present to meet community members, ask questions and listen to stories. They are hoping for a lively discussion!

The artist and the Anacortes Museum are seeking input through a community gathering to be held from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, April 10 at the Maritime Heritage Center, 703 R Avenue, Anacortes.

Join us for our 9th annual Have a Heart Run benefiting Community Action. When you run with us, you’re helping people find the tools and support they need to get out of poverty. Create a team, raise pledges, and help us inspire hope.
Cost: $10-$35. Kids 9 and under are free. Register at www.haveaheartrun.org. 
For more information contact Isabela. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 360 416-7585. 

Saturday April 28, 2018 @ 9 AM at Edgewater Park in Mount Vernon

Building America’s Finest: A Photographic Journey
Join Harry von Stark, a professional photographer and documentarian, as he shares the pictorial story of America’s Finest, a 21st-century, 80 million dollar, high tech fishing trawler built in Anacortes, Washington. Harry documented the build from day one to launch as the vessel was constructed by the skilled labor, sweat, and pride of local craftspeople. America’s Finest now lays in limbo at Dakota Creek Industries where she was constructed and awaits her fate to be decided by the US Congress. Wednesday, May 16, 7:00 pm at the library.

“Science on the Bay: Fidalgo Bay”

The Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve Citizen Stewardship Committee is hosting its first-ever forum to show people in Skagit County the important science happening right in their backyard – Fidalgo Bay!   Talks and displays will focus on local science topics like monitoring pollutants using mussels, wintering seabirds, Great Blue Herons, ocean acidification, the impacts of invasive green crab, and more. “Science on the “Bay” is free, and lunch is provided to attendees by Pizza Factory. All ages are invited. Come talk with the scientists about their projects! Saturday, May 19, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Northwest Education District Bldg., 1601 R Ave., Anacortes.

The event is a public demonstration of resident, business, and civic partnerships with the goal of reducing crime in our community. National Night out is an interactive, family friendly event with the goal of heightening crime prevention awareness and strengthening police-community partnerships. Last year’s event was a huge success with hundreds of community members in attendance. The Agenda for 2018 includes several interactive booths with demonstrations and activities for all ages. If you would like more information, please contact CSO Wolfswinkel at the Anacortes Police Department by calling (360) 293-4684 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Aug 7 @ 6-8 pm @ Storvik Park. 

The annual event called Anacortes Open Streets encourages community members to bring their bikes, scooters, skates or just their legs to stroll the street without any cars in the way from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will feature a classic bike show, live music, activities, food and Victorian couple Gabriel and Sarah Chrisman, who will host a booth featuring their high-wheeled bicycles, also known as penny farthings. The Port Townsend couple celebrate the culture and lifestyle of the late 19th century in their everyday lives.

The Anacortes Museum is celebrating two big anniversaries in August: It is 50 years since the museum opened in the Carnegie Library building, and 60 years since the Anacortes Museum of History Board was established. Mayor Anthony Mustacich appointed the first Anacortes Museum of History Board on July 23, 1958. Ten years later, the museum got a physical location in the Carnegie Library building, which has been home to the Anacortes Museum ever since. At the Museum, 1305 Eighth St. 

Throughout the summer, work by local artists has been on display in the Library Community Meeting Room. The art will be for sale from 1:00-2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 5. A percentage of sales will go to The Friends of the Library and proceeds will benefit the library through their generous support.  Wednesday, September 5, 1:00-2:00 pm at the library

On Sunday, Sept 16, 10:00 am -2:00 pm, everyone is invited to a ceremony to honor the lost baby orca and grieve with the mother, Tahlequah. Tahlequah's mourning touched many people in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Please join us at Bowman Bay at 10:00 am as we remember the orca baby, Tahlequah, and the plight of the orcas. Camping chairs are encouraged and lunch will be provided. 

Date: Sep 16, 2018 10:00 AM - Sep 16, 02:00 PM

• Location: Fidalgo Island, WA 98277
• Contact: Allison
• How to find us: Bowman Bay
• Phone: 360-726-3857

Our first NASA @ My Library program of the season! Join the Island County Astronomical Society and learn how to draw moon craters. All art supplies provided. Monday, September 17, 6:30-8:00 pm at the library. 

Come help us celebrate everything the library has to offer! Gather with your friends, neighbors, and library staff for an evening of games, prizes, books, and snacks. Check out our new logo, learn about fun programs for all ages, and share your ideas for the future of the library. Play Book Jenga and Stump the Library Staff, enjoy special storytimes for Adults and Children, and discover the joys of Book Bombing. Explore resources that you never knew were available: the library has tools that can help you start a new career path, download brand new music, or watch a movie on your next plane ride. All of this and more, at your favorite library, for free! Check it out! Wednesday, September 19 @ 4:00-6:00 pm. This program is free and open to the public. Questions? 360-293-1910 or library.cityofanacortes.org

The Samish Indian Nation is hosting a two-day Native Film Festival on Sept. 22 – 23, 2018 at 4701 Fidalgo Bay Rd, Anacortes. The shows start Saturday 6:00-9:00 pm, with a pizza dinner at 5:00 pm. We'll pick up again Sunday morning at 9:00 am and lunch will be provided, films showing until 4:30 pm. Feel free to bring a low-backed camping chair or anything else comfortable to sit on.

Film Schedule

Saturday
6:00-7:05      Land of the Headhunters/Land of the War Canoes
7:15-8:45      Smoke Signals

Sunday
9:00-10:18     Nanook of the North
10:20-12:00   Whale Rider
12:00-12:30   LUNCH
12:30-1:23     Princess Angeline
1:30-2:58       Powwow Highway
3:15-4:30       Haida Gwaii: On the Edge of the World

The Samish Indian Nation is hosting a two-day Native Film Festival on Sept. 22 – 23, 2018 at 4701 Fidalgo Bay Rd, Anacortes. The shows start Saturday 6:00-9:00 pm, with a pizza dinner at 5:00 pm. We'll pick up again Sunday morning at 9:00 am and lunch will be provided, films showing until 4:30 pm. Feel free to bring a low-backed camping chair or anything else comfortable to sit on.

Film Schedule

Saturday
6:00-7:05      Land of the Headhunters/Land of the War Canoes
7:15-8:45      Smoke Signals

Sunday
9:00-10:18     Nanook of the North
10:20-12:00   Whale Rider
12:00-12:30   LUNCH
12:30-1:23     Princess Angeline
1:30-2:58       Powwow Highway
3:15-4:30       Haida Gwaii: On the Edge of the World

The League of Women Voters of Skagit County will host a voter registration drive in the lobby of the Anacortes Public Library on National Voter Registration Day. Representatives from the group will answer questions and assist with registrations. Tuesday, September 25, 11:00-7:00 pm at the library.

Join us at the Depot Arts Center for a special NASA @ My Library presentation by scientist Dr. Richard Savage of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) in Hanford. September 27, 7:00 pm At the Depot Arts Center

A Community Conversations Series - Please join the Anacortes School District and community partners for a very special monthly film series this school year featuring current documentaries and great conversations exploring topics of equity and inclusion.  Race, gender, disability, displaced families and other complex issues will be our themes as we share in the immersive experience of film and engage in discussion after each documentary.  With special thanks to the Anacortes Arts Festival for series support.

This month's film:  Paper Tigers - September 27 @ 7:00 pm - AHS Library

This celebrated documentary about the impact of childhood trauma and the healing science of hope and resilience was filmed at Walla Walla's alternative high school in 2015.  The film captures the spirit of collaboration and unconditional love of a school community for students who have experienced every kind of challenge.  Paper Tigers is unrated but is most suited for older teens and adults, due to language and content.  

Anacortes High School is holding a community open house on Friday, Sept. 28 @ 4 - 5:30 pm. Will include ribbon-cutting ceremony and ice cream social to celebrate the opening of the new high school. 

Join us for our 7^th annual great day of learning and discovery brought to you by Friends of Skagit Beaches. Spend a day with top scientists and local community leaders presenting on a wide range of topics. Our Keynote speaker will be Dr. Jude Apple, Research Coordinator, Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve – presenting “Eeelgrass, Blue Carbon and Climate Change”. Choose 3 from 9 breakout sessions such as “Return of the Sea Otter”, “Stories of March Point”, “Great Blue Herons” and much more. Clock hours (5) available to educators. Registration is required and opens online Sept. 14. Visit www.skagitbeaches.org to register online as well as Friends of Skagit Beaches Facebook page to learn more.

Arthur Foss—History and Haul-out  Join us for a presentation on the long and storied history of the Arthur Foss, a 129-year-old tugboat based in South Lake Union. Richard Miller, project manager for the tug's recent haul-out at Northwest Seaport, will cover the history of the vessel and the story of its haul-out in 2017. Saturday, October 20, 4:00 pm at the library.

Join Anacortes Public Library, Parks and Recreation, and the Island County Astronomical Society for IOMN. Astronomy experts will be on hand with professional telescopes for viewing and learning. Bring the whole family for stargazing, snacks, and glow in the dark fun!  Saturday, October 20, 6:30 pm. Rotary Park, 701 T Avenue

Need to get your passport before traveling abroad? Let us make it easy for you at the Passport Fair. Bring your documents and apply for a passport, no appointment needed. See our website for more information about required documents and fees. Drop in upstairs in the Library Administration Area.  Saturday, November 3, 11:00 am-3:00 pm at the library.

Friends of the Forest Annual Benefit Event at the Port of Anacortes Warehouse on Saturday, November 3, 2018 from 5:00 to 11:00 pm. Enjoy dinner, drinks, and music plus silent and live auctions featuring artwork, day trips, goods, and services. 

This fundraising party provides the primary support for our Forest Education and Stewardship Program, which provides a wide range of educational activities in the ACFL that promote a greater understanding of our unique community treasure. 

Check online at www.friendsoftheacfl.org for updates or call 360-293-3725.

Creating the 36’ replica of a Viking ship originally built on Norway’s west coast in 1030 AD took daring, patience, remarkable collaborations, and a good dose of skill. Fidalgo Island boat builder, Jay Smith will share a tale of traditional shipbuilding that includes sawyers, blacksmith, sculptor, sailmaker, visionary owner, and the camaraderie that kept the project moving forward until a festive launch in November 2017. Over the last 35 years, Jay Smith has researched and built Nordic lapstrake boats, beginning in a small boat shop on a fjord in western Norway. A seven-month apprenticeship in the Faroe Islands, sponsored by the Danmark-America Foundation, established a firm footing for future work and study. Since then he has made a living building and repairing boats, specializing in lapstrake construction. Periodic travel and research in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark has strengthened Jay’s understanding of Scandinavian culture, history, and boatbuilding. Over the years he has shared these unique traditions with enthusiastic young boat builders and wooden boat enthusiasts through hands-on workshops, lectures and classes. He now works from his shop near Anacortes, on Fidalgo Island. Saturday, November 17, 4:00 pm at the library.

The Samish Indian Nation will be holding a public viewing of the award-winning documentary film, “Dawnland” on Monday, November 26, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. at the Fidalgo Bay Resort Convention Center (4701 Fidalgo Bay Rd, Anacortes, WA 98221).  The film brings awareness to boarding schools and child welfare practices in Indian countries. It has won three “Best Documentary” awards since its release in April this year at several film festivals across the country. After the viewing, a group discussion about the film follow and light refreshments will be offered.

In November the Anacortes Public Library Book Club will be reading A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. The book club meets the fourth Monday of every month in the Library Community Meeting Room. All are welcome to join the conversation. For more information, call Jackie Boss at 360-299-8067.  Monday, November 26, 7:00 pm at the library.

You’re invited to ring in the season at the Anacortes Museum Holiday Open House. Enjoy treats and stage your holiday photo with life-size figures from the "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" TV special narrated by the late Burl Ives. If you can’t make it to the open house, never fear. These cut-outs will be on display at the Anacortes Museum throughout the month of December. At Anacortes Museum. 1305 Eighth St, Anacortes.

Please join me for a community coffee at Johnny Picasso’s in Anacortes on Monday, December 3 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PDT. Community coffees provide an opportunity for me to hear directly from you about the issues you care about. I hope you will join the discussion.

Anacortes Community Coffee with Congressman Rick Larsen (WA-02)
Johnny Picasso’s, 501 Commercial Avenue

R2AK—Race to Alaska. The Race to Alaska is a boat race covering 750 miles of water from Port Townsend to Ketchikan, along the Inside Passage with no motors, no support and lots of danger.  Entering its 5^th year, some say it’s like the Iditarod on a boat, with a chance of drowning, being run down by a freighter, or eaten by a grizzly bear. Race boss Daniel Evans will present what he’s learned from taking a pretty bad and risky idea and turning it into a somewhat manageable madhouse. Saturday, December 15, 4:00 pm at the library.

The Kiwanis Club Christmas tree pickup is scheduled for Saturday, January 5, 2019. This pick up is for city residents only. Have your tree on the curb by 7:00 a.m. January 5th. The tree must be clean (no wires, tinsel, flocking, etc.). Please consider a donation of a canned food with your tree or send a donation of $5 to the Anacortes Key Club, c/o The Kiwanis Shop, 420 “O” Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98221.

Have you been missing your farm-fresh veggies, bread, cheese/yogurt, jam, and other tasty locally produced foods?
What about a handmade hat, scarf, socks, or other comfy knit to keep the chill off this winter?
Find all these and lots lots more at the AFM winter markets - at the depot monthly (every second Saturday) through April. Find many of our vendors *inside* the depot - stay warm while shopping and enjoy a cup of coffee or a hot meal.

Saturday, Jan 12, 9am - 2pm, at the Depot, 611 R Ave.

With Tony Kunz.  Social Security will likely be the foundation of your retirement income.  Before you retire, it’s important to understand your options regarding Social Security and the impact your decisions will have on your retirement.  This is a presentation that discusses how Security fits into your retirement income plan, when you should start taking benefits, and tax considerations. Wednesday, February 20^th 7:00 pm at the library.

The historic Felicity Ann, a vessel made famous by Ann Davison, the first woman to sail solo across the Atlantic in 1953.  Learn more about Felicity Ann’s stops along the way, including her journey across the country and finally ending up at the Northwest School of Wooden Boatbuilding. Saturday, March 16^th 3:00 pm at the library

Island County Sheriff and Swinomish Tribal Police are co-hosting a Health and Well-being training for all 1st Responders on March 20-21.

Island County Sheriff Rick Felici and Chief Lou D’Amelio say they and their entire staff take mental health and general well-being seriously. It’s been a wonderful turn of tides that we are finally talking about our own mental health, learning more techniques and tools to help us so that we can not only survive this career, but thrive. And take these tools into the field with us to help the public.

They are targeting the areas of Clallam, Jefferson, Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom counties.

1st Responder Conferences presents a multi-faceted two-day seminar and networking event for improving the mental health and wellness of our first responders. By discussing the real 21st Century issues that are consistently facing our first responders and their families, our conference will provide awareness, resources and action items to combat PTSD, depression, suicide, addiction, stress, and overall mental health.

When: March 20-21, 2019

Time: 0800-1600
Where: Swinomish Casino and Lodge
12885 Casino Drive
Anacortes, WA 98221

Hosted by the Island County Sheriff's Office & Swinomish Police Department. Co-hosted by Code 4 NW and Blue H.E.L.P.

Anacortes’ Early Newspapers: “Honest, Independent & Aggressive”

This presentation by Bret Lunsford, Anacortes Museum Director focuses on early Anacortes journalists featured in the new exhibit at the Anacortes Museum. Anacortes was founded by a journalist, Amos Bowman, who wrote for Horace Greeley‘s New York Tribune newspaper in the 1850s and followed his boss’ advice to “go west” – he began publishing the Northwest Enterprise here in 1882. From 1890 onward the Anacortes American covered local news, joined at various times by other long forgotten journals. Learn all about the lives and work of early Anacortes writers Douglass Allmond, Sophie Walsh, Charlie Gant, and their successors like Wallie Funk and all the rest whose news is now history. Wednesday, March 20^th 7:00 pm at the library

Island County Sheriff and Swinomish Tribal Police are co-hosting a Health and Well-being training for all 1st Responders on March 20-21.

Island County Sheriff Rick Felici and Chief Lou D’Amelio say they and their entire staff take mental health and general well-being seriously. It’s been a wonderful turn of tides that we are finally talking about our own mental health, learning more techniques and tools to help us so that we can not only survive this career, but thrive. And take these tools into the field with us to help the public.

They are targeting the areas of Clallam, Jefferson, Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom counties.

1st Responder Conferences presents a multi-faceted two-day seminar and networking event for improving the mental health and wellness of our first responders. By discussing the real 21st Century issues that are consistently facing our first responders and their families, our conference will provide awareness, resources and action items to combat PTSD, depression, suicide, addiction, stress, and overall mental health.

When: March 20-21, 2019

Time: 0800-1600
Where: Swinomish Casino and Lodge
12885 Casino Drive
Anacortes, WA 98221

Hosted by the Island County Sheriff's Office & Swinomish Police Department. Co-hosted by Code 4 NW and Blue H.E.L.P.

Tuning in to Northwest Radio History

Look—and listen—back to the people, stations, and stories that made the early years of radio broadcasting a vital part of the culture of the Pacific Northwest.

Innovations in technology, programming, and business – and realities of geography and topography – made radio from the 1920s to the 1940s in this remote corner a little bit different than the rest of the United States. As radio broadcasting came of age, local stations in cities big and small connected the people of Washington with events and entertainment from across the country and around the world. With a mixture of vintage audio, historic images, and expert storytelling, radio historian and broadcaster Feliks Banel revisits the power of early radio in the Evergreen State, and looks ahead to the unpredictable future of local radio in our communities.

Feliks Banel is a writer and producer, and serves as editor of “COLUMBIA,” the quarterly magazine of the Washington State Historical Society. He has been a host and contributor for KIRO Radio in Seattle on matters of Northwest history and culture for many years; he created the history series “This NOT Just In” for KUOW Public Radio; and he produces documentaries for the Seattle Channel.

Wednesday, April 10th 7:00 pm at the library..

Rock with Buffet at Bikespot this Friday, April 19th at 6:00 pm!

John Van Deusen, Braydn Krueger, Nick Rennis and Dick Turner are celebrating the release of their new album - yes, VINYL! - with a show that will blow the roof off.

Hope you can ride on down to the 200 block for this rippin' record release party!

WHAT: According to the National Institute of Justice, 84 percent of Native women have experienced violence in their lifetime. Overall, that is more than 1.5 million Native women. The Centers for Disease Control has also found that homicide is the third leading cause of death among American Indian and Alaskan Native women between the ages of 10-24.

In honor and solidarity with the thousands of missing and murdered indigenous women across the United States and Canada, the Samish Indian Nation will host a second event with refreshments, speakers, songs, speakers and a vigil walk at Seafarers Park on May 13. The general public is welcome to attend.

WHEN: Monday, May 13 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

WHO: The event is being led by the Samish Indian Nation’s Social Services and Chelángen departments.

WHERE: Seafarers Park, 601 Seafarers Way