Our Lummi Island Community

Tome 1977/05

LUMMI ISLAND COMMUNITY CLUB

NEWSLETTER

May 18, 1977

COMMUNITY CLUB MEETING GUEST SPEAKER: Deputy Scott Notar

Potluck Dinner 6:30 PM PROGRAM: “Bloc Watch”

General Meeting 7.30 PM

CALENDAR OF EVENTS (May & June):

Friday, May 20, 8:00 Pm Film, The Railroad Children, Beach School

Thursday, May 25, 7:00 Pm Roller Skating, Ferndale Roller Rink

Saturday, May 28, 6:30 Pm LICC Auction & Mexican Potluck at 4:00 PM

Friday, June 3, Noon. Beach School Field Day, Gus & Libba Johnsons’

Friday, June 10 Last Day of School

Sunday, June 12, 11:00 Am Last Run of “Whatcom Chief” Before Dry-Docking

Sunday, June 19, 1:00 Pm Fire Dept. Auxiliary’s’ Strawberry Festival, Island Church

Saturday, June 25, 5:30 Pm Island Grange Spaghetti Feed, Grange Hall

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The May 25th Community ‘Club meeting is being dedicated to Lehr Miller, founder of the Club in the early sixties, and Editor and creator of this Newsletter for so many years.

BLOC‑WATCH ‑‑ NEIGHBORHOOD CONCEPT OF CRIME PREVENTION

Although this method of crime prevention was first designed for neighborhoods formed in conventional urban “blocks”, its’ use has been easily adapted to suburban neighborhoods and “rural neighborhoods” alike. Come to the May 25th Community Club meeting and listen to Whatcom County Sheriff Deputy Scott Notar speak and help set up a “Bloc-Watch” program for our community. In view of the rash of burglaries committed in the past couple of years, I would urge everyone to come to the meeting and participate. – – Les Shanahan

SLIDE SHOW PRESENTATION

If time allows, Mrs. Adda Roberts, Lummi Island, will present another one of her beautiful slide shows. Last year, many Islanders were deeply moved by her “Bicentennial” show, which included slides from every state. We look forward to seeing another presentation, if not at the May 25th meeting, the first Fall meeting. – – Gerri Neuman, Editor

“DO I HEAR A BID? ‑‑‑ GIVE ME A BID”

That will be the familiar call from auctioneer David Sklar at the 2nd Annual LICC Auction being held Saturday, May 28, 6:30 PM at Beach School with a Mexican theme potluck dinner preceding at 4:00 PM. Many generous and unique donations have been received, but more are needed! Please, contact Gerri Neuman, Cathy Luke, or any Board member if you have something; anything. We’d like to have the list finalized at the May 25 meeting. Most important, we urge one and all to attend the Auction and participate in the bidding. Last year, it was an overwhelming success, both for fund raising and for just plain fun and visiting. – – Gerri Neuman, Chairman

“LITTLE JOHN” FACILITY PROPOSAL

The forecast of a diminished summer water supply for the area increases the impact of an already existing summer problem. A public restroom facility is non-existent. Private businesses can’t be expected to provide the service or facility. Their water supply is limited too. Would the Community Club consider solving the problem with the placement of a “Little John” facility in some available, accessible location on a one summer trial? Costs have been quoted as follows: 1 unit – only $42.50/mo. Pumping of 65 gal. holding tank as needed, with replacement of chemicals and tissue supply $10/trip. Facility would be needed for 3 month summer season from say June 10 to Sept. 10? $127.50 plus x times $10 per servicing. The proposal will be discussed and voted upon at the May 25 meeting. Perhaps our Auction on May 28 could supply needed funds. – – Phyllis Lockwood, Acting LICC Chairperson

“WHATCOM CHIEF” DRYDOCK SCHEDULED

Last run of the Whatcom Chief before dry-docking shall be 11:00 AM, June 12. No other service except emergency standby passenger service will be available until 6:50 AM, June 13. Then, limited hourly passenger service only, from 6:50 AM through 10:10 AM and 3:00 PM through 12:10 PM daily will run from June 13, 1977, until the return of the Whatcom Chief. Work scheduled for the Whatcom Chief will take 1 to 2 weeks, therefore the Whatcom Chief will be back in operation sometime between June 19 and June 25. Angle parking will be available on the South side of the County road only at Gooseberry Point for Island commuters leaving their vehicles on the mainland. There will be NO PARKING on Fisherman’s Cove property this year. A night guard will be provided for vehicles left at Gooseberry Point. The passenger vessel will be the “Islander Mariner”.

COAST GUARD INSPECTION OF “WHATCOM CHIEF”

On Tuesday, May 24, the Coast Guard will be having its annual inspection of the Whatcom Chief at 10:00 AM. This may create some short delays in the surrounding scheduled ferry runs.

IMPACT OF OIL SPILLS IN PUGET SOUND

At the LICC April meeting, Tom Suchanek, Zoologist at Univ. of Wash. discussed the impact of oil spills in Puget Sound, and some alternatives available for the location of supertanker ports. Many voices were heard, and discussion revolved around how to let our concerns be heard by our representatives in Olympia & Washington, D.C. Postcards like those used in the campaign to keep our post office open are being made available to Islanders (and anyone else who might be interested) to express their feelings about supertanker traffic and transshipment of Alaskan crude oil. Whether pro or con, this will give us all an opportunity to tell how we feel, and hopefully, have some say in decision making which could affect the future of our beaches, fishing industry, the entire beauty of our Northern Puget Sound. Do we want an oil transfer facility at Cherry Point bringing supertankers past our front door, and leaving open the extreme possibility of a major oil spill in our waters? Do we favor a facility at or west of Port Angeles, a location with more open waters that would allow for higher maneuverability and decrease the chance for collision and increase the chance for easier cleanup should a spill occur? Let your voice be heard by writing your own letter or using a postcard provided at Beach Store or the Islander. Some names & addresses you might write to: Olympia Hotline 800/562‑6000 (Free)

Sen. Warren Magnuson Pres. Jimmy Carter Brock Adams (Sec. Transportation)

127 Russell Bldg. White House Dept. of Transportation

Wash., D.C. 20510 Wash., D.C. 20510 Wash, D.C.

Legislative Bldg. Olympia, WA.98504: Rep. King Lysen, Mary Kay Becker & Sen. Ted Bottinger

Also available at both stores are petitions from POW (Protect Our Waters) opposing an oil transshipment facility at Cherry Point. Please sign if interested. – – Cathy Luke, LICC Board Member

FERRY RATES

The County Commissioners met in a closed session May 2 to learn the outcome of the Whatcom County Superior Court case on denial of ferry permits to non-Whatcom County registered vehicles. Prior to this meeting, several Islanders met with Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Gene Moses, and all 3 County Commissioners to make it clear that if this were to be a closed meeting, any discussion of ferry rates was forbidden. We did not want any decisions made on the future of the ferry rate system without Islanders present. We were finally assured no rate discussion would occur, and Terry Unger emphasized it had never been their intention to take action on ferry rates immediately following the court decision. As a result of these pre-meeting conferences with Islanders and officials, Gene Moses limited the May 2 meeting to the following information: 1) The court has ruled there cannot be a denial of permits to non-Whatcom County vehicles. 2) The County will not appeal the case. 3) The inference in the written decision alluding to the possible illegality of all passes was not related to the issue presented to the Judge, and shall, therefore, have no bearing on a future decision by the Commissioners on passes or permits in general. Thus, the court order will not immediately affect anyone, except non-Whatcom County vehicle owners who may now purchase passes, and no ferry rate changes will occur until after the public hearings in January, 1978. – – Carole Hammond, LICC Secretary

FREEHOLDERS ELECTION

As a result of a vote of the County Commissioners (2‑1, Johnson opposed), the November, 1977, ballot will include an election of Freeholders whose year-long job will be to review existing County government. Seven Freeholders will be elected from each Commissioner’s District, and will serve without compensation. Their specific task will be to draft a “Home Rule Charter” which would then be adopted or rejected by the voters in the Fall of 1978. Such a Charter may modify the County’s governmental structure and personnel policies, and could also provide voters with the right of initiative and referendums on County issues. Ideally, any and all changes included in the proposed Charter would be designed to provide a more efficient and responsive County government. The Board of Freeholders should include at least one Lummi Island resident. Although there is no salary, and attendance at numerous evening meetings will be necessary, our unique Island interests should be represented. Those with a sincere interest in County government and with time to devote to the job are urged to file.

– – Will Roehl, LICC Board Member

PHEASANT PLANTED ON LUMMI ISLAND

The Wash. State Game Dept. has planted 175 pheasant on the Island and is asking for the cooperation of all Islanders who have “bird” dogs. If these dogs could be “restrained” from running loose until the first week of July, it would greatly enhance the chance for these birds to nest and hatch out a new crop of birds. If the Game Dept. is willing to become involved in a project such as this on our Island, maybe we should put forth an equal amount of effort to keep the program alive. – – Les Shanahan

Note from Editor – – ‑Just this morning, a female pheasant was found wounded from a gunshot wound, and white being transported to the Vet died. Think maybe a few people should try restraining themselves giving these planted birds even more of a chance for survival!

GRANGE NEWS

COME ONE, COME ALL to the Grange Spaghetti Feed June 25 from 5:30 ‑ 7:30 PM

Congratulations go to Luella Schuller for having won a purple ribbon on her “women’s three-piece street suit” at the Whatcom County Pamona Grange sewing contest held May 6 at the Rome Grange. The suit has been sent on to State Grange for judging at the State level in competition with entries from all over the state during the State Grange convention being held in Spokane, June 13‑17. Bess Paine will be entering an oil painting in the State Grange Art Contest. Entries in this will be judged at the State convention. Otto Reise has been chosen as a delegate to represent the Island Grange at the State convention.

– – Edith Granger, Secretary

AS I SEE IT

In lieu of the latest law enforcement of this past week, I have been putting my ole’ noggin to work and have really been trying to figure out what Lummi Island is coming to! I have lived on this island for nearly all of my 35 years, and I have seldom seen any reason to call an officer of the law. I just can’t help but wonder about the law‑abiding citizen that would see the need to have on hand three patrol cars on such a small piece of land, surrounded by water, and whose inhabitants seldom set out to do anyone any harm. However, many tickets were issued in one day for many minor offenses; the law officers sparing no one.

With this new atmosphere imbedded on my mind, I thought I would take a drive to specifically notice something against the law or even to find something to complain about … and then find someone to complain to about it. Just to name a few things I observed: the tide was out, the wild roses were blooming as was the salmonberry, and even the pesty scotch broom shone in all its’ glory. Wild rabbits were plentiful, and the deer must have been hungry as I saw several grazing here and there. And the mother eagle at Point Migly was working on her nest. As I went about looking for broken laws, I noticed it was about to rain, so I went on home. I was thankful for the rain as so many others are desperate for this precious liquid. Our area is so abundant with everything we need.

During my journey, I waved at and/or said hello to several friends, and maybe even acknowledged a person or two I didn’t know. Before I went into my home, I walked around my yard and looked at my flowerbeds and vegetable garden. I still could find nothing to complain about, and still was not aware of any laws that were being broken.

I really feel that anyone that notices that we need law enforcement of such strength as was here last week, really doesn’t notice the tides, wildflowers blooming, busy animals of all kinds; nor do they notice that they’ve said hello to a friend … but, possibly they might notice a few enemies, but then again … maybe not. – – Donna Harryman, Law-Abiding Citizen (I think)

FRIDAY DANCING

Each Friday evening at 7:30‑10:00 PM, a group of people (men, women & children) get together in the Beach School gym in order to dance. Many people seem curious, but reluctant to come because they don’t know quite what to expect. Without doubt, the most common misconception is that people fear they aren’t experienced or confident enough to join in the dance. So in hopes of clarifying issues, let me say that I believe dance is for everyone. That’s why on Friday nights, I’m trying to provide an environment in which people can feel comfortable; moving regardless of how experienced or confident they are. Self consciousness denies creativity. So various sorts of music, though mostly of rock/jazz variety, is our background for moving. It is necessary only that you enjoy dancing, not that you know what you’re doing. We have the chance to dance alone, exploring our own movements. We also dance together in an exchange of creativity. We have time to dance freely, as well as time to participate in exercises intended to widen each individual’s movement vocabulary and awareness. A fee of 50¢, is requested for use of the gym and to cover music taping expenses. All are welcomed to take part. If you have any further questions, please let me know. – – -Wendy Belfield, Box 125. Hope to see you there!

FIRE DEPARTMENT FLICKERINGS

At the regular Fire Commissioner’s meeting, May 9, Fire Chief Bill Hawley reported 2 aid calls during this past period: one for David Schneider April 24; the other for Beatrice Hubbard May 1. No fire calls were made, although one warning was issued to control a potentially dangerous blaze. A special request is asked of Islanders to please mark your house with your house number. When an aid call is received for 456 X Street, it can be rather difficult to find with no house number in sight. – – Jackie Gaines, Secretary

FIRE AUXILIARY NEWS

The Auxiliary is currently planning its summer fund-raising events. Annual Strawberry Festival will be held on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19 from 1 to 4 PM. The evening of Saturday, July 16, the Annual Wine-tasting Party will be held at Scenic Estates Clubhouse. Number of tickets is limited, so be sure to get yours early from an Auxiliary member. – – Lylene Johnson, Secretary

CIVIC CLUB NEWS

Thursday, May 12, was Spring cleaning day at the Lummi Isl. Church & Cemetery by members. Everyone came with polish, window cleaner, rakes, etc. and a sack lunch. During lunch, the regular business meeting was held. Plants donated & sold at April’s swap meet added a few extra dollars to the treasury. Next scheduled meeting is Oct. 13, but plans were made for a summer bake sale and quilt raffle to be held the same time as a planned rummage sale to benefit the Church building paint fund. Officers elected in April for coming year: Lois Peterson, Pres.; Maud Brown, V.P.; Marion Weston, Sec.; Edith Murphy, Tres. ; – – Lois Peterson, President

YEAR OF THE “DOG”

The Lummi Island “Dogs” were victorious in their first played game of the softball season. The score was 12‑7 against the Lummi Indians, played at Lake Padden under the lights in the cold of the night. The game had some of the “tightest” playing seen in years. Double-plays, homeruns, few errors were some of the highlights of that eventful evening. The second game of the season was lost to Bellingham Jaycees 7‑4. But remember – a mere 3 runs doesn’t mean that this isn’t the YEAR OF THE DOG! Reminder: “Dogs” practice Sun., 1 PM, Beach School. – – B.Lapof/S.Tyler

Opinions of individual contributors to this Newsletter do not necessarily reflect those of the officers, directors or members of the Lummi Island Community Club. – – Editor

BEACH SCHOOL NEWS

COMING EVENTS . FILM, The Railroad Children, May 20, 8:00 PM.

Everyone welcome. There’ll be popcorn! Minimal charge will hopefully cover cost of film.

ROLLER SKATING, Thurs., May 25, 7:00 Ferry. PTA has rented Ferndale Roller Rink. Skates & all are only 80¢. Everyone welcome to show off and up!

NO SCHOOL, Memorial Day, Monday, May .30

FIELD DAY, Friday, June 3, Noon at Gus & Libba Johnsons’ Place … Bring potluck lunch. Children, parents, helpers & friends of Beach School are welcome.

SCHOOL DISMISSED for summer term, Friday, June 10

MANY THANKS go to Mike McRory & Paul Davis for the beautiful sign Mike made & they put up with our school name, date built & teachers. Many made pies for swap meet sale with profit of $96. Bill Hawley made our children feel very important when the Fire Dept. loaned us a film on kitchen fires. Custer band & choir visited and gave us a fine concert, and 60 children wistfully said they loved our school. Earl & Donna Granger kindly let them play on their beach. Lloyd Davis just finished his animal film series with the children again chorusing this as being the best yet, and he has them looking forward to next year’s already. He also gave us tennis balls

The children completed 2 weeks of swimming lessons at the “Y”. Whether they were “paddlers”, “kickers”, or “minnows”, they worked their little flippers off. Special thanks to Anne McCandlis & Leslie Moore for setting up a fine program, and to more than 15 adults who were drivers, and actually in the water with the children..Jin & Debra Hanrahan, Lynn Loftus, & Lee Greeley.

Illustrious visitors to school recently were our new Superintendent, Dr. Dennis Peterson, and School Board Chairman, Carl Stock. They came on a lovely sunny day taking time to walk around our park-like grounds & visit community members. We also had a private concert by two New York stage stars, Judy McCauley & Tom McKinney performing in “Carousel”. We thank Dean Bill Gregory for inviting the children to see that wonderful musical; the kids are still singing.

Sponsors of kids for the M.S. Read‑A‑Thon will be proud to learn our little school was awarded 2nd place in Whatcom County based on number of kids reading, books read, plus amount of money raised. Wants to make you grin when comparing our 30 kids enrollment to 350 in other schools.

Our last PTA meeting of the year was an interesting mix as usual…of business, as well as people. New officers for coming year: Pres. for Fall, Winter & Spring are Dr. Bill Gregory, Jim & Debra Hanrahan, Elaine McRory respectively; Jeanne Finney, Sec.; Judy Eldred, Treas. Guest speakers were Gail Chamblin, nutritional counselor, and Greg Moore, hypno‑therapist who spoke on nutrition dealing with obesity and proper nutrition. Following week, they spoke to the children. Experts helping on teaching units is invaluable, and somehow lots of people are willing to help our children in so many ways, and kids and parents are most always appreciative.

If we ‘could get the school painted, what color would you like to look at the next 50 years?

CHURCH NEWS

After 5 months absence, Carl Calhoun is back on the job as minister of the Church, beginning May 1. Our thanks to the men from the Speech Dept. of Western Wash. College who took turns serving the pulpit during this interim period. Our thanks to Civic Club who turned out for their annual church clean-up day. Inside & out, results of their work show great improvement. Other improvements in the works: the church will be painted by already delivered paint with Dave McAdams doing the job. Stairway at rear of church will have inside walls finished & insulated; and last, but not least, day before Easter, men from the Fire Dept. brought their ladder and secured some ceiling panels threatening to break loose. All in all, the place is going to be in pretty good shape! Thanks to Wad Dunn for repairing the cut gas line so we again have heat. – – Charlotte Calhoun

FARWELL TO PRE‑SCHOOL TEACHER, LESLIE MOORE

L is for Leslie, we love her lots

E is for Everything she has done for our tots

S is for School that won’t be the same

L is for Love she’s shown each child, no matter their name

I is for Inspiration she has shown one and all

E is for the Extras, the kids had a ball

You put them together, it’s LOVE that they spell. We’ll miss you, we thank you, and we all wish you well. – – Pre-School Parents & Kids

VILLAGE POINT RESTAURANT “SOCIAL HOUR”

Village Point Restaurant will be having a “Social Hour” on Saturday Nights from 9 ‑ 11 P.M. starting May 21st. Scheduled for this Saturday is Terry Wein providing entertainment on his guitar with a sing‑along planned. Finger food and beverages will be provided.

Lummi 1sland Community Club BULK, RATE

Lummi Island, WA 98262 U.S. POSTAGE PAID.

LUMMI IS., WA. 98262

PERMIT No. 2

(ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED)

RESIDENT

LUMMI ISLAND, WA. 98262

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