First issue edited by Gerri Neuman
LUMMI ISLAND COMMUNITY CLUB
NEWSLETTER
May 1976
COMMUNITY CLUB MEETING . . . . . . . . . WEDNESDAY, MAY 26, 1976, 45 P.M.
“AMBULANCE SERVICE & POSSIBLE FUNDING” ‑ Speakers: Gary Hedberg & Chief Jack Baker “LUMMI INDIAN SCHOOL OF AQUACULTURE” ‑ Presented by Paul Winkler
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*****SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR THE SUMMER OF OUR BICENTENNIAL YEAR l976 *****
SATURDAY, MAY 29th COMMUNITY CLUB BICENTENNIAL POTLUCK (4:00 P.M.) & AUCTION (6:30 P.M.) LOCATION: BEACH SCHOOL AUCTIONEER: STEVE LUKE
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SUNDAY, JUNE 20th FIRE DEPARTMENT WOMEN’S AUXILLARY & ANNUAL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL. LOCATION: LUMMI ISLAND CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 2:00 P.M.‑4:30 P.M.
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SUNDAY, JULY 4th COMMUNITY CLUB PANCAKE BREAKFAST 7:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. LOCATION: GRANGE HALL
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Wednesday, JULY 7th COMMUNITY CLUB MAILBOX DECORATING CONTEST DEADLINE (LIST AT STORES) ======CASH PRIZES======
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SATURDAY, JULY 17th FIRE DEPARTMENT WOMEN’S AUXILLARY WINE TASTING PARTY
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FRIDAY, JUNE 4th BEACH SCHOOL FIELD DAY‑‑12:00 NOON – JOHNSON -HUDSON ‘COMPOUND’
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Greetings old, Great, White, Bwana-Type Rocky Dwellers! Much jumbo, mumbo talk on our charming and leaky temporary ferry‑‑”Afreaky Queen”. This luxurious, well appointed (wall‑to‑wall carpeting and wallpaper yet) excursion type vessel‑‑circa 1890 or thereabouts – has generated a great deal of comment – some even favorable, along with a considerable apprehension about the aquatic abilities of the commuters in the event of a storm. Don’t know why anyone should be concerned though – it hain’t never floundered in 50 or so years of sporadic operation. Presumably aided by the generous and judicious use of bailing wire, scotch tape and chewing gum; and besides, aren’t we all suppose to be imbued with a bit of nostalgia on this Bicentennial year. So here we can be completely wrapped up in it. I’m. surprised though that the Maritime Museum, would let it get away. In spite of its dubious appearance, it does promote an aura of super friendliness amongst all the Island users. Once again, adding credence to that old adage of “all being in the same boat together.”
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The near drowning accident off the Estates last weekend points up the necessity of all Islanders being more concerned about what is going on in the waters surrounding this island. Any unusual activity should be thoroughly checked out, particularly of anyone yelling (regardless if it is understandable or not.) There is also a definite need for adequate rescue boats on both sides of the island that can be launched and operable within minutes.
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Because of the Bicentennial Potluck Dinner being held in conjunction with the Community Club Auction on May 29th at the Beach School, there will be no potluck dinner at the meeting on May 26th. The regular meeting and program are scheduled for 7:45 P.M. This will be the last meeting until the fall, so the Board hopes to see a “full house”. They would like to remind you that everyone is welcomed to attend the meetings, and anyone 18 years of age or older is eligible to become a member.
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At the Community Club meeting on April 28th, Ed Henkin, County Engineer, and Commissioner Terry Unger spoke to the membership about the proposed passenger boat schedule while the Whatcom Chief is out of service from May 10th through June llth. It became very apparent that most Islanders did not realize the limited schedule was only proposed, and if a definite need was shown, a full schedule could be made available. The membership pointed out several instances where employed Islanders and students would have to seek lodging off Lummi and be greatly inconvenienced. A list of such people was started that night, phone calls made after the meeting, letters quickly drawn up, and a group of Islanders attended the Commissioners meeting the following morning where a decision was to be made on the final schedule for passenger service. As soon as Commissioners Johnson, McIntyre and Unger were presented with the facts, it took little argument to persuade them in retaining full‑time service every day of the week. When inquired as to how much the savings would actually be for the County with limited service, the approximate figure of $2,000 was used. It was felt by all that this small savings was not worth so many people having to live with a hardship, and we are thankful for the input by everyone and the follow-up in providing a feasible, livable solution. All Islanders should be made aware that the Whatcom Chief, its funding and service now comes under the jurisdiction of all 3 County districts and commissioners. Whenever the 3 meet to make a decision, it is a meeting open to the public. In the past, they have been very receptive to our input, and truly worked for a mutual solution. There is a probability that there will be an adjustment in ferry rates next year. We will try to keep you updated on information available; and hopefully as in the past, there will be a committee of Islanders to work directly with the Commissioners.
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Recently, the perimeter of the Island cemetery was cleared of brush exposing a terrible mess surrounding the fence. When cleaning up the grounds, the Civic Club was disturbed to find people had been throwing foil, ribbons, flower containers, etc. over the fence. Now that the area is once again clean, it is hoped it will remain so.
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There has been some concern about the spurt of property sales recently on the Island. However, this activity generally does not represent much in the way of new development as most sales are of established parcels changing ownership. Historically, only a small percentage of these will eventually become permanent Island residents, and many others will undoubtedly be resold several times before any permanent resident is established. It would appear that Island property as an investment is on the upswing, but as a permanent resident, it is inclined to be more of a novel experience to a lot of people that sort of loses its appeal after a couple years.
It has become quite apparent that our present ambulance with its limited space and equipment has become inadequate to handle the island’s growing population. Matching limited funds may be available, and to explain the program and answer questions, Gary Hedberg, County Ambulance Paramedic, and Chief Jack Baker, will be at the next Community Club meeting on May 26th. This is a situation which could affect the lives of every island resident, and everyone is urged to attend the meeting for information and input.
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FIRE DEPARTMENT FLICKERINGS
Fire Commissioners’ meetings are held each second Monday 6of every month, and anyone is welcomed to attend. The Post Office will have the meeting notice for location and possible changes in meeting dates. Anyone who has not registered their name, address, etc. with the Central Dispatch in case of fire or emergency may do so by getting a card from the Post Office.
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While the Whatcom Chief is off service from May 10th through June 11th, the County ambulance will
be available for emergencies. The normal procedure will be used with Lummi Island EMT’s answering the aide calls, transporting the patient to the passenger vessel, and the County ambulance will be waiting at Gooseberry Point to make the transport into Bellingham.
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B E A C H S C H 0 0 L N E W S
COMING ATTRACTION: FIELD DAY! Friday, June 4th at 12:00 Noon. Lane Spit at the Johnson-Hudson Compound. If rained out, the following Monday. This will be the usual potluck lunch followed by a display of running, jumping, and generally sporty skills by the children of the Island.
SCHOOL IS 0UT. FOR THE SUMER ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9th.
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Many warm thanks go to all the following people for their help and donations:
Gretchen Bates for Easter posters and decoratings.
Maria Anderson for a variety of colorful paper and display items.
The Ray O’Brines for more of that good quality ditto paper. We have boxes full again!
Ada Roberts for two excellent reference books for our library: Birds of America by Audubon and The Natural Atlas of America by Hammond.
Jerry Anderson for the poster of The Anadromous Food Fish of Washington.
Also … People came in to share their time, talents, collections, & knowledge … Mothers Judy Eldred & Jeannie Finney brought pets to share with the children (lambs and baby rabbits). Eldreds shared many treasures brought home from their Hawaiian trip also. … Ada Roberts brought her dolls of the world collection.(well, part of it anyway) and talked about the dress and customs of people where the dolls were collected. The children were impressed and thrilled to get to handle every single doll too. …Dr. Paul Winkler of the Lummi Aquaculture Program took the 3rd, 4th and 5th graders to Point Migley at very low tide a week ago. They identified more than 35 various kinds of sea life and came back with much more knowledge and wonder than they’d had when they started. The 1st and 2nd graders are eagerly awaiting their turn. Number of interested Island adults went along too. … An exciting evening for the whole school was the dress rehearsal of Oklahoma! Children knew the story and many of the songs before they attended, and they had been visited by the two New York stars of the show‑ – so they got everything out of it that there was to get. The show tied in nicely with what we are studying in history now … settling of our country.
There is much writing activity going an around school these days … more than usual! Leone Western is helping to write personal histories, and many of the children are working doggedly at the essays for the Civic Club contest.
New P.T.A. officers for next year are: Presidents Terry Tyler, Gretchen Bates & Leslie Moore; Secretary: Shirley Shanahan Treasurer: Charlotte Ne bit
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AND THE BALL WILL ALWAVS BE ROUND!!!! On that stirring note, the Lummi Island Dogs
began their season in the Bellingham Slo-Pitch League. Although the season’s opener weren’t exactly victorious, the Dogs have high hopes that this will be their best season yet. Acting as coach, captain and team member is the star rugby player, Stoney Burke. Team members are: Rich Sandeen, Daniel Ringle, Bruce Douglas, David McAdams, Les Shanahan (our illustrious deputy sheriff), Ed Lowe, Jonathan FAriedan, David Johnson, Michael Gettar, Brendan Murphy, David Lapof, Jackson Highley, George Hartnet, Leonard Chanouver, Archie MacMillan 6 Derek Boekholt. Official Scorekeeper is Briged McDonough. Providing moral support, solace and cheering their team were Buffy Lapof, Shirley Shanahan, Shelley Sherman, Alma Hecht, Debbie Neuman & Susie Tyler. The Dogs are sponsored by Bi & Virginia Smith, Willie K. Wright & Jon Reynolds. A schedule fpr the remaining games is posted at the Beach Store. Come out and support your team!!!
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Start gathering your pennies, digging out the piggy banks and that “pot of gold” you have been saving for a special occasion. May 29th there will be a unique chance to purchase anything from a Body Massage to Bunk Beds at the Community Club Potluck Dinner and Auction. ‑ As mentioned earlier, it will be held at the Beach School, and proceeds will be used for community needs. There have been many generous people so far in donating items of art and services. Among the night’s program of donations are Summer Stock Series Tickets at Western College, Car Tune‑up, spring outfit from Golden Rule, Mexican Dinner, and one Year’s Saw sharpening. With auctioneer Steve Luke the night is guaranteed to be one of fun, enjoyment and profit (both for the donator and donatee). The Potluck will be Bicentennial them, so everyone is asked to bring their favorite all-American dish. It has been suggested that homemade ice cream would be an added treat, so dig out the old hand crankers, and we’ll see how many strong, enduring youths we have among the night’s diners. Potluck is scheduled for 4:00.P.M. and everyone is asked to provide their own utensils. Beverages will be available, but dishwashers will not. There is still a need for volunteers to help set up and take down tables, chairs, etc. and you can list your name at either the Islander or Beach Store. The Auction will, kick off at 6:30 P.M. and open to anyone with ready cash. Donations could still be used, and you may call Gerri Neuman. 758‑2213, or Susie Tyler 758‑2658 or
Mink Fire , 758 2150. They would like to have the list of items and services finalized by the next Community Club meeting on the,26th, so make your call now.,
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T O L L E D B Y T H E C H U R C H BELLL
Notes from our Pastor’s Desk:
A special thanks to the ladies of the Civic Club for their work in cleaning and beautifying our Church and Church grounds!!
An historical note in this, our Bicentennial year ‑‑‑‑‑ a 1904 model of a Thomas Edison mimeograph machine is being used weekly to produce our Church Bulletins! This machine is on loan from the museum.
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Grange Hall reports that their work party this past weekend was very successful with many turning out to give a helping hand. many thanks to each and every one of you. Most of the sheetrock was put up and next comes the taping. No specific date has been set for the next work party, but they will be asking for more volunteer help as time goes on. Their aim is for the new addition to be completed for the Pancake Breakfast on July 4th, so that all Islanders can enjoy it.
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Have you ever seen an interesting mailbox? ‘ You can help improve the appearance of Lummi Island by decorating or remodeling your mailbox. To correlate with the Lummi Island Bicentennial celebration, the Community Club is sponsoring a mailbox decorating contest with cash prizes being awarded on July 17th. The three categories are Bicentennial, Lummi Island & Individualistic. The rules are posted for standard rural mailboxes at the Post Office, and signup lists at each store. Deadline for entering is July 7th, so start creating!!!!
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The Sklars (David, Linda, Jennifer, and dog, Shana) have moved into the quarters behind and above the Beach Store. After 3 years together in the city and suburbs of Chicago, they welcome the pace and serenity of Lummi Island. David worked 4 years as an account executive for a company that engineered and leased trucks, and Linda taught 1st & 2nd grades for 5 years. Jennifer has just celebrated her 2nd birthday and has become the newest member of the pre-school here on the Island. All are thrilled to be settled in the “Great Pacific Northwest” and look forward to being active members the Island community.
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In honor of Spring this year, some Islanders celebrated May Day with there version of the traditional rites. some of which date from Roman religious custom. These modern celebrants, costumed and beribboned, paraded along Nugent Road on tractor-pulled floats, in cars and on foot. Once at the festival grounds, they picnicked, and raised and braided the three Maypots. During the .sports events (volleyball, croquet, jump rope & watching), hundreds of helium-filled balloons were released from the bed of a pick‑up. The closing ceremonies included dancing into the next day to the music of the island’s own Rock Band.
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VILLAGE POINT MARINA NEWS… No opening date for Spring has been set as yet for the new restaurant and facilities. As soon as one has been, it will be posted on the building – so watch for it! Please look up to admire Dan Pomerory’s handiwork… in the form of a full rigged sailing ship Weathervane. Stainless steel hull & brass sails insure it against salt spray. Dave Lapof mounted it where it now sails in every breeze. We are delighted with it, and hope you will be too. Dave Nesbit and Dave McAdams have done excellent work on the interior, tho there is more paneling and flooring before it will look finished, but things are shaping up!
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HAPPY FATHER’S DAY ‑‑‑ Bring dad to the Annual Strawberry Festival sponsored by the Women’s Auxiliary June 20th between the hours of 2:00 P.M. and 4:30 P.M. at the Lummi Island Congregational
Church. Hope to see all of you there. Also, the wine tasting party will be held on July 17th this year. More info about that in the next Newsletter.
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On May 4th, Jerry Anderson, our local Postmaster, was verbally . informed by Maurice Johnson, District Director in Seattle, which includes all of Washington and part of Idaho, that the Lummi Island Post Office was on the list of 44,in the District to be investigated for closure. Apparently, the next move would be a questionnaire sent to all Island residents listing alternatives that would be available instead of the present post office. This questionnaire appears to be, after inspection by this writer, an erroneous attempt to confuse the issue. Perhaps, when the form arrives some concerted efforts should be developed to prevent the move. Will try to keep the Island informed as soon as possible.
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Newsflash!!!!!! The State Department of Fisheries has given verbal approval for the construction of the new ferry dock. They require some slight modification, which the county says will be no problem to fulfill. Construction is slated to begin July 1st to allow completion of the herring spawning. It will be the fill-type dock.
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This issue of the Lummi Island Newsletter begins a new format. It is hopeful that it will appeal to everyone and help promote more and varied contributions to its makeup by other Islanders besides those previously involved. This former Editor having disrupted the tranquility of Island life for some 8 years has decided to more or less retire to a position of non-intervention and occasional kibitzing in favor of a more dynamic and ebullient compiler of things and events – Gerri Neuman. Anyone having items that they wish to publish in the Newsletter, please send them to her or call her.. She can type almost as fast as any of you can talk – except some of our self-professed resident conversationalists that is.