In addition to being your favorite source Whidbey Weekly is also your source for: for news and events on the island

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In addition to being your favorite source Whidbey Weekly is also your source for: for news and events on the island
November 26 through December 2, 2020

                                     In addition to being your favorite source
                                         for news and events on the island,
                                     Whidbey Weekly is also your source for:
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1131 SE ELY STREET • OAK HARBOR • 360-682-2341 • WWW.WHIDBEYWEEKLY.COM
In addition to being your favorite source Whidbey Weekly is also your source for: for news and events on the island
2    NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 2, 2020
                                                                                         Whidbey Weekly                                           www.whidbeyweekly.com
     LOCALLY OWNED                                                                                                                                LOCALLY OPERATED

       GREEN TICKET
      CASH GIVEAWAY                                                                                               Think of it as
   DOUBLE GREEN TICKETS
    ON SMALL BUSINESS                                                                                             essential.
 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28!

  Walk, Shop, Dine in Historic Downtown Oak Harbor
    NOVEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 18, 2020
Earn a GREEN TICKET for every $20 purchase* at participating merchants
  between November 1 and December 18, 2020 and be entered to win
                                                                                                                                    Get a flu vaccine.
   $1000 CASH, $500 CASH OR A $100 Main Street Gift Certificate!
        Drawing will be held at 4pm on Saturday, December 19.
 Must be 18 years older to participate. Do not need to be present to win.                                                           KnockOutFlu.org
      *1 ticket per $20 purchase with a maximum of 50 tickets per individual transaction up to $1000.

                                        Home for the Holidays
                                                                                                           shop, eat, explore locally!
                                                                         Join us downtown Langley for our annual tree lighting
                                                                                 on Saturday, November 28 @ 4:30 p.m.
                                                                                        Four large trees, designed by local artists Melissa Koch,
                                                                        Tobey Nelson, Silvan Goette, and Sarah Santosa, will be strategically placed around town
                                                                         at Boy and Dog Park, Whale Bell Park, the grassy lot next to City Hall, and Langley Park.

                                                                         Mayor Tim Callison will officiate at the lighting ceremony which will begin at City Hall and
                                                                          progress next to Boy & Dog Park, then on to Whale Bell Park, and finally end at Langley
                                                                                                         Park at Second and Anthes.

                                                                           Thanks to a grant from Puget Sound Energy for lights, downtown Langley will be more
                                                                                                        festive than ever this year.

                                                                             Stroll the streets, shop in your favorite shops and grab a bite at our restaurants’
                                                                              outdoor dining tents before the lighting. Then join us at the Langley City Hall
                                                                                      at 4:30 as we progressively light the trees. We ask that everyone
                                                                                                 wear a mask and maintain social distancing.

                                                                                                                    208 Anthes Avenue, Langley WA 98260 - 360-221-6765
                                                                                                   208 Anthes Ave. Langley, WA 98260 • 360-221-6765
                                                                                                                          VisitLangley.com             • VisitLangley.com
                                                                                                                                            - Langley@Whidbey.com

                Thank you for reading! Please recycle the Whidbey Weekly when you are finished with it.
In addition to being your favorite source Whidbey Weekly is also your source for: for news and events on the island
www.whidbeyweekly.com
                                                                             Whidbey Weekly                                                               NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 2, 2020                                                                        3
  LOCALLY OWNED                                                                                                                                                                         LOCALLY OPERATED

ON TRACK                                           not turkeys. They are angels, including our

                                                                                                           THANKSGIVING SALE
                                                   production manager TJ Pierzchala, our editor
with Jim Freeman                                   Kathy Reed, and our graphics guru Teresa
                                                   Besaw. Noah Marshall does double duty as

                                                                                                        20% OFF* ALL MONTH LONG!
                          If you get a call
                                                   our circulation manager and marketing rep-
                          from 509-639-
                                                   resentative along with Glenda Cantrell, who
                          3173, enjoy the
                                                   is also our marketing rep.
                          chat. It is some
                          guy named Carlos         Working with a team of pros makes this
                          saying he is in the
                          area and would
                                                   rookie feel very thankful.
                                                                                                         Looking To Replace Your Windows
                          like to buy your
                          property.
                                                   Chow down
                                                   What an island this is. If you have not
                                                                                                         For The Last Time? Give Me A Call!
                        I told Carlos my
                                                   noticed, Thanksgiving Day will be celebrated
                                                   again this year with the distribution of over
                                                                                                           Brian Jones 360-969-4664
                        basset hound
Norton was buried in the yard and until I
                                                   1,500 free Thanksgiving dinners cooked and                    CERTIFIED DESIGN CONSULTANT
                                                   delivered by the Oak Harbor community,
joined Norton, my property was not for sale.       the American Legion and the Mobile Turkey
I added if Norton rose up to bark, I'd surely      Unit.
stay here on my magic parcel.                      We are certainly grateful to all these orga-
How did Carlos get my number?                      nizations who volunteer their skills to help
                                                   feed the less fortunate during this difficult                                                                                                                             Whidbey Island resident
“Public records,” he said. This is vinyl I would
                                                   time.
toss. Thank you, Commander Transparency.                                                                  *Minimum purchase of 4 windows or 1 patio door. Offer expires November 30, 2020                                     for the past 40+ years
                                                   Estate planning
Never too old
                                                   During World War II, before Mom birthed
Grandma just sent me the 14 step program
to being more civil. Without taking it per-
                                                   our older brother, Dad helped out another
                                                   soldier by purchasing a small unit of oil          PHONE: 360-682-2341                                                                                   FAX: 360-675-2162
sonally, I share the info with you readers for                                                        		 TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                                                                                                        Whidbey Weekly
                                                   producing property in Pike County, Miss.
whom I am abundantly thankful on this day
                                                   The benefits of the property were nothing to
and every day.                                     speak of, so little was spoken.
The source of this wisdom is unknown to            Two days ago, Grandma called to tell me                                LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
me, but I am sure Facebook is involved.            she had received a letter asking for my death
I asked one of my friends who has crossed          certificate and copy of my will to transfer the      1131 SE ELY STREET | PO BOX 1098 | OAK HARBOR, WASHINGTON 98277
70 and is heading to 80 what sort of               unclaimed funds held “in suspense” before
                                                                                                      Publisher..................................................................................... Eric Marshall                   Contributing Writers
changes he is feeling in himself.                  the state of Washington got the money.                                                                                                                                                Alec Brown
                                                                                                      Editor........................................................................................... Kathy Reed                      Jim Freeman
He sent me the following:                          Still breathing, and very curious, I put my                                                                                                                                         Wesley Hallock
                                                   law hat back on to investigate the whys and        Marketing Representatives.........................Glenda Cantrell, Noah Marshall                                               Melanie Hammons
#1- After loving my parents, my siblings, my                                                          Graphic Design......................................................................... Teresa Besaw                               Kae Harris
                                                   wherefores of my assumed death. According
spouse, my children, my friends, now I have                                                                                                                                                                                            Tracy Loescher
                                                   to the paperwork generated by the once             Production Manager..................................................................TJ Pierzchala                                  Kathy Reed
started loving myself.                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Carey Ross
                                                   bankrupt company with the drilling rights,         Circulation Manager................................................................ Noah Marshall
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Kacie Jo Voeller
#2 - I just realized that I am not "Atlas." The    said monies would go to Governor Inslee
world does not rest on my shoulders.               and his legislative posse within 48 hours.                                     Volume 12, Issue 48 | © MMXX Whidbey Weekly
                                                                                                      PUBLISHED and distributed every week. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The Whidbey Weekly
#3 - I stopped bargaining with vegetable           Hi yo escheat, away.                               cannot be held responsible for the quality of goods or services supplied by advertisers in this publication. Articles, unless otherwise stated, are by contribution
and fruit vendors. A few pennies more is                                                              and therefore the Whidbey Weekly is not in a position to validate any comments, recommendations or suggestions made in these articles. Submitted
                                                   For those of you who do not do crosswords,         editorial is NOT guaranteed to be published.
not going to burn a hole in my pocket but
                                                   “Escheat is a common law doctrine that             DEADLINES: The Whidbey Weekly is a submission based editorial with contributing writers. Please feel free to submit any information (please limit to 200
it might help the poor fellow save for his                                                            words) that you would like to share with the Whidbey Weekly. You may submit by email to editor@whidbeyweekly.com, by fax to (360)682-2344 or by postal
                                                   transfers the real property of a person who        mail to PO Box 1098, Oak Harbor, WA 98277. Submitted editorial is NOT guaranteed to be published. Deadline for all submissions is one week prior
daughter’s education.
                                                   has died without heirs to the state. It serves     to issue date. For more information, please visit www.whidbeyweekly.com.
#4 - I pay my waitress a big tip. The extra        to ensure that property is not left in limbo
money might bring a smile to her face. She is      without recognized ownership. It originally
toiling much harder for a living than me.          applied to a number of situations where
                                                   a legal interest in land was destroyed by
#5 - I stopped telling the elderly that they've
                                                   operation of law, so that the ownership of
already narrated that story many times. Their
                                                   the land reverted to the immediately superior
story makes them walk down memory lane
                                                   feudal lord.”
to relive the past.
                                                   Like any good younger brother, I called my
#6 - I have learned not to correct people
                                                   older brother to make sure he was okay.
even when I know they are wrong. The onus
of making everyone perfect is not on me.           “Hey, Lew, are you all right? According to
Peace is more precious than perfection.            this paperwork on Dad's property, you and
                                                   I are not breathing. Have you received any
#7 - I give compliments freely and gener-
                                                   communication from the driller in the last
ously. Compliments are a mood enhancer
                                                   decade?”
not only for the recipient, but also for me.
And a small tip for the recipient of a compli-     “I have received a few checks in the amount
ment– never turn it down, just say "Thank          of 97 cents, but I just tossed them.”
You."                                              Like any good middle kid, I called my sister
#8 - I have learned not to bother about a          to verify her breathing pattern.
crease or a spot on my shirt. Personality          “Hey, Linda, have you received any mail
speaks louder than appearances.                    from the driller in the last decade?”
#9 - I walk away from people who don't             “I've received a few checks for 97 cents but I
value me. They might not know my worth,            never bothered to cash them.”
but I do.
                                                   Apparently, I was the only family member to
#10 - I remain cool when someone plays             cash the 97 cent checks. Being the middle
dirty to outrun me in the rat race. I am not a     child without any festivals or fairs or auctions
rat and neither am I in any race.                  to emcee in 2020, I deposited my checks
#11 - I am learning not to be embarrassed          at night in the ATM. Nothing like a proud
by my emotions. It’s my emotions that make         property owner with oil royalties.
me human.                                          So, after several phone calls to Mississippi
#12 - I have learned that it's better to drop      and Texas, I discovered the company granted
the ego than to break a relationship. My ego       the interest in drilling had assumed we were
will keep me aloof, whereas with relation-         all deceased.
ships, I will never be alone.                      Wrong, royalty breath.
#13 - I have learned to live each day as if it's   Our “minimum dumps,” the term for                                                Gene Kelly Barner
the last. After all, it might be.                  small oil patch checks, had accumulated.                                         Financial Advisor
#14 - I am doing what makes me happy. I            Here comes the biggie. Like James Dean in
am responsible for my happiness, and I owe         “Giant,” I was ready for the big money.                                          144 N E Ernst St Suite C
it to myself. Happiness is a choice. You can       Next April, having verified our existence,                                       Oak Harbor, WA 98277-5905
be happy at any time, just choose to be.           each of us will receive checks in the amount                                     360-675-8239
Why do we have to wait to be 70 or 80?             of $1.16.                                                                                                                                edwardjones.com
Why can't we practice this at any age?             Nothing quite like the pride of petroleum                                                                                                Member SIPC
                                                   oozing all over my checkbook.
Thank you Whidbey Weekly
Thanks ever so much to Eric Marshall and           How shall we invest?
the Whidbey Weekly team for our island-            To read past columns of On Track in the
wide free community paper. The folks who           Whidbey Weekly, see our Digital Library at
do the work to timely publish this effort are      www.whidbeyweekly.com.

                   Thank you for reading! Please recycle the Whidbey Weekly when you are finished with it.
In addition to being your favorite source Whidbey Weekly is also your source for: for news and events on the island
4      NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 2, 2020
                                                                              Whidbey Weekly                                                                     www.whidbeyweekly.com
          LOCALLY OWNED                                                                                                                                          LOCALLY OPERATED

                                                                                                                                                            Ideas for
        Bits & Pieces                                                                                                                                       Thanking
                                                                                                                                                            Your
                                                   stood in 2016. Now his moral decay is obvious        lutely must ride our ferries, please wear a
                                                   and constant.                                        mask anytime outside of your vehicle as one
                                                   One needs only to hear Republican state elec-        is required aboard our vessels and throughout

                                                                                                                                                            Family
                                                   tion officials who look you in the eye and tell      our terminals in compliance with the state’s
                                                   you the truth about how their states handled         health order to help keep people safe.”
                                                   the vote. Republican Kim Wyman, in our state,        Holiday schedules
                                                   is an excellent example of the kind of integrity     Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, there will be a few
                                                   we expect from elected officials in positions of     schedule changes for the Edmonds/Kingston,             It’s almost Thanksgiving. And although
                                                   power.                                               Mukilteo/Clinton, Point Defiance/Tahlequah          2020 may have been a difficult year for you,
                                                   In support of Chris Krebs, the U.S. Election         routes. The Seattle/Bainbridge Island route will    as it has been for many people, you can

Letters to the                                     Commission chairman and the presidents of
                                                   the National Association of Secretaries of State
                                                                                                        operate on a weekend timetable Thanksgiving
                                                                                                        day. Holiday sailings are marked on the sched-
                                                                                                                                                            probably still find things for which you can
                                                                                                                                                            be thankful – such as your family. How can
                                                                                                                                                            you show your appreciation for your loved
                                                   and the National Association of State Elec-          ule page for each route.
Editor                                             tion Directors, all signed a statement that said,
                                                   “The November 3rd election was the most
                                                                                                        Busy travel times
                                                                                                                                                            ones?
                                                                                                                                                               Here are a few suggestions:
Editor,                                                                                                 Lengthy wait times are possible for people             • Invest in your children’s future. If you
                                                   secure in American history.”                                                                             have young children – or even grandchildren
                                                                                                        driving a vehicle onto a vessel over the long
My wife and I were vacationing in Coupe-           If you want to hear it from Chris Krebs' mouth,                                                          – one of the greatest gifts you can give them
                                                                                                        holiday weekend. For people who must travel,
ville and read Mr. Coomer’s diatribe. I feel       go to: www.cisa.gov/rumorcontrol.                                                                        is the gift of education. You may want to
compelled to respond, so please accept this                                                             the busiest sailings will likely be in the west-    consider contributing to a higher education
Letter to the Editor.                              Team Biden would do well to hire Chris Krebs         bound direction Wednesday afternoon, Nov.           funding vehicle.
                                                   back as the Director of CISA.                        25, through Thursday morning, Nov. 26, then            • Be generous. Do you have older children,
Mr. Coomer,                                                                                             eastbound Thursday afternoon through Friday,        just starting out in life? If so, they could well
                                                   Mike Diamanti
We have different opinions: You consider Pres-     Coupeville, Wash.                                    Nov. 27. To reduce or eliminate waiting, riders     use a financial gift to help pay off student
ident Trump to be the best President in history,                                                        may consider taking an early morning or late        loans, buy a car or even make a down
while I consider him the worst.                    Editor,                                              evening sailing. To maintain physical distance      payment on a home. You can give up to
                                                   Our island is extremely fortunate to have the        standards, WSF will enforce reduced occu-           $15,000 per year, per recipient, without
You contend our nation is in peril because
                                                                                                        pancy in terminals and on sailings for walk-on      incurring gift taxes. Of course, you don’t
                                                   Greenbank Farm open and available for resi-
the Democrats have stolen the election to put                                                                                                               have to give cash – you might want to
                                                   dents and visitors to explore and enjoy. There       passengers.
in place our crooked, senile Joe Biden, while                                                                                                               consider presenting your children with
I contend that our nation is in peril because      are marvelous walking trails that allow dogs,        Travel tips                                         shares of stock in companies they like.
your amoral, narcissistic Donnie Trump is          interesting gardens, agriculture projects, a                                                                • Review your insurance coverage. If you
                                                                                                        Sign up for ferry email alerts.
corrupting our democracy by spewing lies           community pea patch and this holiday season,                                                             weren’t around, it would leave some gaping
about election fraud so he can stay in power.      three welcoming businesses open to the public        Check terminal conditions and WSF’s COVID-          holes – financial and otherwise – in the lives
                                                   for shopping locally. COVID-19 restrictions          19 travel updates before leaving.                   of your family members. That’s why it’s
You seem to put great value in supporters of       have created difficult living and social condi-                                                          essential you maintain adequate life
                                                                                                        Make a vehicle reservation for the Anacortes/
a candidate professing love, while I care more     tions for us all but the approximate 151 acre                                                            insurance. Your employer might offer a
                                                                                                        San Juan Islands or Port Townsend/Coupeville        group plan, but it may not be sufficient to
about him garnering respect.                       farm is providing a wonderful outdoor experi-        routes.                                             meet your needs. There’s no magic formula
You apparently consider me an enemy and our        ence and shopping area for residents and visi-
                                                                                                        People using state highways to get to the ferry     for determining the right amount of cover-
disagreement a war, while I consider you to be     tors. It is disappointing that a Holiday Market                                                          age, so you’ll have to consider a variety of
                                                                                                        terminal should plan ahead for potential back-
irrational and our disagreement a challenge.       cannot be held this year. However, the farm
                                                                                                        ups and delays with real-time traffic infor-        factors: your age, spouse’s income, number
What we do have in common: we are both
                                                   businesses provide required mask wearing                                                                 of children and so on. Also, you may want to
                                                                                                        mation on the WSDOT traffic app for mobile
American citizens, so we have a right to
                                                   experiences to purchase items to eat, drink                                                              consider disability insurance – if you were
                                                   and delightful local gifts to buy. These busi-       devices.                                            unable to work for a while, it could cause a
express our opinions. We don’t have a right,                                                                                                                real problem for your family’s finances.
                                                   nesses are open the entire Thanksgiving week         WSF, a division of the Washington State
however, to state that crimes have been
                                                   and into December for shopping plus the Port         Department of Transportation, is the largest           • Preserve your financial independence.
committed as fact, without evidence.
                                                   Office and Whidbey Camano Land Trust is              ferry system in the U.S. and safely and effi-       When your children are young, you take care
Just saying something doesn’t make it so.          open during the week. Please visit and support       ciently carries nearly 24 million people a year     of them. But you certainly don’t want them
Luckily, in our country, we are innocent until                                                                                                              to have to do the same for you – so it’s
                                                   the Farm.                                            through some of the most majestic scenery in
proven guilty. Concerning the allegations you
                                                                                                                                                            essential you maintain your financial
                                                   Greenbank Farm continually requires mainte-          the world. For breaking news and the latest         independence throughout your life. You can
have made about illegal actions: where is the                                                           information, follow WSF on Twitter and Face-        do this in at least a couple of ways. First,
                                                   nance and many volunteers have come forth
evidence? To say there is a sinister cover up so
                                                   in giving hours and monies to its maintenance.       book.                                               consider investing regularly in your 401(k),
there is no evidence is not defensible. If the
                                                   I say a huge "Thank You" to those volun-             [Submitted by Justin Fujioka, WSDOT]                IRA and other retirement accounts. The
courts determine there was “massive fraud,”
                                                   teer residents. I urge you during this holiday                                                           greater your resources during your
then I agree the election results should be                                                             Washington College Grant:                           retirement years, the less you may ever need
                                                   season and next year to visit our farm and also
nullified; if not, then you and our soon to be                                                          Guarantees Funding to Attend                        to count on your family. And second, you
                                                   support it by buying a ticket for a holiday raffle                                                       may want to protect yourself from the devas-
ex-President owe the country an apology.                                                                Skagit Valley College for All
                                                   basket full of great gifts and business certif-
                                                                                                        Eligible Washington Residents                       tating costs of long-term care, such as an
With due respect,                                  icates from the wine shop, cheese store and                                                              extended nursing home stay. A financial
Doug Dickerson                                     the new café. Tickets can be bought at the           What’s next in your life? Considering attending     professional can suggest a strategy to help
Spokane, Wash.                                     wine shop and from several volunteers also. A        Skagit Valley College in Winter Quarter, but        you cope with these expenses.
                                                   donation can also be made for the farm. We           need financial assistance? Great news! Guar-           • Create an estate plan. To leave a legacy
Editor,                                            need to financially support our farm in order        anteed college funding for all eligible residents   to your family, you don’t have to be wealthy
Defend Today and Secure Tomorrow                   for continued maintenance and the assurance          in Washington is available through the Wash-        – but you do need a comprehensive estate
                                                   that its open spaces will always be available for    ington College Grant, www.skagit.edu/wa-col-        plan. You’ll have to think through a lot of
Add the name of Chris Krebs, Director of                                                                                                                    questions, such as: Have I named beneficia-
                                                   our enjoyment.                                       lege-grant.
the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency                                                                                                                 ries for all my assets? How much do I want
(CISA), to the list of public government           Sincerely,                                           Classes at SVC begin Jan. 4. The team at            to leave to each person? Do I need to go
servants (you saw several of them from the         Judi Moore                                           SVC is ready to help you reach your potential       beyond a simple will to establish an arrange-
State Department who testified during Trump’s                                                           and help you every step of the way. Laptop,         ment such as a living trust? For help in
                                                   Greenbank, Wash.                                                                                         answering all these issues, you’ll want to
impeachment), who retain their integrity, char-                                                         hotspot, and webcam loans are also available.
                                                   Check Schedules If You Must                                                                              work with an attorney.
acter, and will to call out lies, misinforma-
                                                   Ride a State Ferry Over
                                                                                                        Check Skagit Valley College’s Guide to Winter,         By making these moves, you can show
tion and wrong behavior at any level of our                                                             www.skagit.edu/winter-2021. For more infor-         your loved ones, in a tangible way, how
                                                   Thanksgiving Weekend
government. Trump fired him because, like                                                               mation or to speak with SVC staff, visit www.       much you value them – and that can help you
Anthony Fauci, he pointed out facts that did       People catching a state ferry for essential travel   skagit.edu/uchat.                                   keep the spirit of Thanksgiving alive all year
not jibe with Trump’s propaganda.                  over Thanksgiving weekend should review sail-                                                            long.
                                                                                                        [Submitted by Arden Ainley, Chief Public Infor-
After the election was called, I woke up the       ing schedules in advance. Several routes are         mation Officer, SVC]                                This article was written by Edward Jones for use
next day wondering why the vote was so             operating on modified timetables under Wash-                                                             by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
close. Is it possible that of the 74 million who   ington State Ferries’ COVID-19 Response              Island Transit Joins National                       Edward Jones, Member SIPC.
voted for Trump, a large percentage of those       Service Plan that are different from years past:     Health & Safety Commitments
voters were blind to his incompetence, lies,       Seattle/Bainbridge, Seattle/Bremerton and            Program                                                              Jeffery C. Pleet,
cheating and mangling of our norms, stan-                                                                                                                                    CLU®, ChFC®
                                                   Mukilteo/Clinton: Final daily round trip             With concern over rising COVID-19 cases this
dards and behaviors? Was it because they           suspended                                            winter and new state restrictions to stop the                        Financial Advisor
voted party instead of sound judgment? Was         Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth: Two-boat               spread of the virus, Island Transit has joined                       630 SE Midway Blvd.
it because they would rather believe the con       schedule instead of three; late-night sailings       the American Public Transportation Associa-                          Oak Harbor, WA 98277
than the truth? Did they never check media                                                                                                                                   360-679-2558
                                                   suspended                                            tion’s (APTA) “Health & Safety Commitments
                                                                                                                                                                             jeffery.pleet@edwardjones.com
sources besides Fox News and Rush Limbaugh?                                                             Program,” making a pledge to passengers
Did they vote for him because one or two           Edmonds/Kingston: Final round trip suspended         that public transit is taking all the neces-
                                                   on Fridays and Saturdays
                                                                                                                                                             www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
policy positions aligned with their thinking?                                                           sary measures to operate safely during the
I know many Republicans who voted for              Anacortes/San Juan Islands: Winter schedule          pandemic.
Trump in 2016 because they loathed Hillary,        (no Sidney, British Columbia service)                “We’ve taken the health and safety of our
didn’t want a woman as president, and were         “With statewide restrictions in place to help        passengers and employees very seriously
sick of Democrats. I didn’t agree with them,       slow the spread of COVID-19, this will not           since the outbreak of COVID-19,” says Todd
but that’s how the 2016 election shook out.        be a normal Thanksgiving for ferry travel,”          Morrow, executive director of Island Tran-
Trump’s shenanigans were not fully under-          said Amy Scarton, head of WSF. “If you abso-         sit. “By joining other public transit agencies

                    Thank you for reading! Please recycle the Whidbey Weekly when you are finished with it.
In addition to being your favorite source Whidbey Weekly is also your source for: for news and events on the island
www.whidbeyweekly.com
                                                                               Whidbey Weekly                                           NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 2, 2020              5
  LOCALLY OWNED                                                                                                                                            LOCALLY OPERATED
nationwide in the Health & Safety Commit-           Island Transit is committed to continually         school age drop-in center in Oak Harbor to
ments Program, we’re further cementing that         addressing and implementing new health and         better serve the youth and young adults of
pledge and asking others to join with us in         safety measures as information evolves about       Whidbey Island. The directors of RHFY hope
honoring these commitments to help keep             how to best protect each other from the virus.     to gain the public’s experience, insight, and
each other protected from this deadly virus.        Currently, the agency:                             wisdom before moving forward in the creation
We are all in this together.”                       • Requires face covering of all passengers and     of a strong plan. If you would like to be part
By signing on to the APTA Health & Safety             operators on the bus and at our facilities.      of helping Ryan’s House for Youth create a
Commitments Program with more than 100              • Provides face coverings for those who need       plan to help the homeless and disenfranchised
public transit systems, Island Transit and the        them.                                            youth of Whidbey Island there are two meet-
public transit industry are actively working to                                                        ing times from which to choose. The first
instill confidence in riders that it’s committed    • Provides hand sanitizer on all two-door
                                                                                                       meeting will be held Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 7:00pm,
to protecting their health and safety.                buses and is currently installing dispensers
                                                                                                       the second will be Thursday, Dec. 10 at
                                                      on other buses.
The program was developed after asking                                                                 2:00pm. You can register for this town hall by
transit users from across the country what          • Sanitizes buses daily using an electrostatic     calling 360-682-2748 or emailing ryanshouse-
measures would make them feel more confi-             sprayer to thoroughly cover all surfaces of      foryouth@gmail.com.
dent riding public transportation amid                the bus interior with a bio-chemical disinfect
                                                      proven to kill COVID-19.                         [Submitted by Amber Truex, Executive Director,
concerns about COVID-19. From this research,
                                                                                                       Ryan’s House for Youth]
the industry identified four key areas transit      • Requires employees to conduct daily
systems need to address to earn riders’ confi-        temperature and health checks before they        Drive-thru Santa’s Sleigh to
dence:                                                come to work.                                    Brighten the Holidays
• Following public health guidelines from offi-     • Limits the number of passengers on a bus to      A holiday tradition since 1995, the team at
  cial sources.                                       provide opportunity for social distancing.       South Whidbey Fire/EMS has devised a safe
• Cleaning and disinfecting transit vehicles        • Installed MERV 8 air filters in all buses to     and streamlined way for the South Whid-
  frequently and requiring face coverings and         trap COVID-19 droplets and prevent the           bey community to experience Santa’s Sleigh
  other protections.                                  virus from moving through the HVAC               this year. Instead of visiting communities each
• Keeping passengers informed and empow-              system.                                          evening over the course of a week, a drive-
  ered to choose the safest times and routes        • Advises customers follow health and safety       thru set up at Bayview Fire Station, 5579
  to ride.                                            guidelines and not to ride the bus if ill.       Bayview Road is planned for Thursday-Satur-
• Putting health first by requiring riders and      New bus decals and posters with the four           day, Dec. 10-12.
  employees to avoid public transit if they         commitments are going up on the buses to           Participants will simply drive up the hill to
  have been exposed to COVID-19 or feel ill.        remind passengers of these shared responsibil-     enjoy lights, music, decorations, goody bags
“Island Transit has pledged to meet these           ities. For more information about Island Tran-     and greetings from Santa. All visitors will
commitments by creating specific policies that      sit’s Health & Safety Commitments Program,         remain in their vehicles and follow safety
are effective for our system, our riders, and our   go to www.islandtransit.org/Commitment             guidelines, including wearing masks and social
community,” says Morrow, adding that a key          Submitted by Meghan Heppner, Island Transit]       distancing.
component of the Health & Safety Commit-
                                                    Ryan’s House for Youth to Host                     The plan is to spread the visits out over several
ments Program is the shared responsibility of
                                                    Virtual Town Hall Meeting                          hours. The time to visit Thursday and Friday,
the transit system and its riders to follow the
                                                                                                       Dec. 10 and 11 is between 5:30 and 7:30pm.
guidelines.                                         The Directors of Ryan’s House for Youth (RHFY)
                                                    invite the public to participate in an upcoming    The time for Saturday, Dec. 12 is between 4:30
“Riders rely on us to follow these commit-                                                             and 7:30pm.                                                Ron Telles, CEO
ments, and we rely on riders to protect them-       town hall meeting via Zoom. RHFY is devel-                                                                    WhidbeyHealth

selves and other customers,” says Morrow.           oping a strategic plan and its goal is to move     Learn more about South Whidbey Fire/EMS on
“With another wave of cases expected this           forward with the input of the community.           Facebook or at www.swfe.org.
winter, these commitments to each other             This meeting is focused on gathering mean-         [Submitted by Sherrye Wyatt]
are critically important to the health of our       ingful views for strategic planning for RHFY’s
community.”                                         young adult campus in Coupeville and its                  BITS & PIECES      continued on page   8

                                        Habitat for Humanity
                    New: Mattresses, Flooring, and Online Store!
                       freeland-store.mybigcommerce.com

   ONLINE STORE! freeland-store.mybigcommerce.com
                      FREELAND • 1592 Main Street                                                                      OAK HARBOR • 290 SE Pioneer Way
                            360.331.6272                                                                                       360.675.8733
                           OPEN: Mon-Sat 10am - 4PM                                                                             OPEN: MON-SAT 10am - 5pm
                        southstore@islandcountyhabitat.com                                                                      store@islandcountyhabitat.com

                                                                   www.islandcountyhabitat.org

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Whidbey Weekly

NEWS
www.whidbeyweekly.com                                                      LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
                                                                                                                                             Miss Oak Harbor returns in 2021 p. 10

                                                                                                                                                           NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 2, 2020

Regency seeks morale boost
for staff following COVID cases
By Kathy Reed Whidbey Weekly                                                    have limited indoor contact with residents, which in turn can lead to
Several residents at Regency on Whidbey’s Memory Care Unit in                   feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Oak Harbor have tested positive for COVID-19, prompting a request               Any donations can be dropped off at the Oak Harbor Chamber of
that members of the community pitch in to provide small items to                Commerce or at Regency’s assisted living facility at 1040 SW Kim-               Photo Courtesy of Randy Hudson
send encouragement to staff members at the facility.                            ball Drive, in Oak Harbor. Because there are three different shifts             Whidbey Island sculptor Georgia Gerber presents her piece, “Three
                                                                                daily, Mendiola said they will do their best to distribute any items            French Hens,” for the 2020 sculpture sale through Whidbey Com-
The request came via an email from the Oak Harbor Chamber of                                                                                                    munity Foundation. Proceeds from the annual sale are distributed
Commerce, asking for individually wrapped food items as well as                 between all three.
                                                                                                                                                                among various nonprofit organizations on Whidbey.
notes of encouragement.                                                         Those with questions may contact Mendiola at tmendiola@regen-

                                                                                                                                                                Creative holiday
“The staff has been working 24/7,”                                              cy-pacific.com or call 360-279-0933.
said Community Relations Director                                                                                   “This is a team effort and one way
for Regency on Whidbey, Teri Men-

                                                                                                                                                                collaboration
                                                                                                                    to tell them we care,” said Mendi-
diola. “It’s been crazy and really,                                                                                 ola. “It makes a big difference. It’s
really stressful.”                                                                                                  motivational and inspirational. The
COVID-19 tests have been admin-
istered to all staff and residents
at both the assisted living and
                                                                                                                    staff is tired. Everybody’s con-
                                                                                                                    cerned. We’re a small island, this
                                                                                                                    is a small community. We love our
                                                                                                                                                                benefits Whidbey
memory care facilities. According to
Island County Public Health, there
                                                                                                                    residents and we’re here to take
                                                                                                                    care of them. That’s our primary            nonprofits
are 18 cases at the facility, the first                                                                             goal, to make sure everybody is
                                                                                                                                                                By Alec Brown Whidbey Weekly
one being confirmed Nov. 9.                                                                                         safe and well taken care of.”
                                                                                                                                                                Whidbey Community Foundation has once
Mendiola said staff members                                                                                         Like the rest of the state, the             again joined with Whidbey sculptor Georgia
are being screened daily at the                                                                                     number of people infected with              Gerber and her husband, Randy Hudson, to
beginning of each shift. She said                                                                                   the COVID-19 virus has continued            raise money through art.
so far the outbreak has impacted                                                                                    to rise recently. According to Island
residents only - no staff members                                                                                   County Public Health, there have            WCF announced its fourth annual partner-
have tested positive.                                                                                               been 583 cases of COVID-19 as of            ship at the beginning of the month. This
                                                                                                                    press time Tuesday. That figure is          year’s sculpture, entitled “Three French
Small, packaged treats would be a                                                                                                                               Hens,” joins sculptures from the previous
welcome boost to staff members                                                                                      up from 501 on Nov. 16.
                                                                                                                                                                three years and all are available for purchase.
who are working hard daily to care                                                                                  Gov. Jay Inslee issued an executive         (Check out Dashing Turtle (2019), Sheepish
for residents and keep them safe,                                                                                   order last week which has closed            Rabbit (2018) and Settling Owl (2017).)
according to Mendiola.                                                                                              bars and restaurants for indoor             Proceeds from the sale will be donated to
“We’re doing everything we can,”                                                                                    dining, and has also shut down              WCF, which then disperses the funds to
she said. “It’s stressful, it’s tiring,                                                                             gyms and fitness centers, indoor            Whidbey nonprofits. Those interested can go
but the staff is there for the resi-                                                                                movie theaters, bowling alleys              online at whidbeyfoundation.org to order
dents and we’re very thankful for                                                                                   and more. The governor is also              their sculptures. Orders can be picked up at
them.”                                                                                                              urging people to stay home this             the Rob Schouten Gallery on the corner of
                                                                                                                    Thanksgiving, prohibiting indoor            Anthes Ave. and 1st Street in Langley.
Suggested items for staff members                                                                                   social gatherings with people
include protein bars, cheese and                                                                                                                                Gerber and Hudson have traveled a long
                                                                                                                    from outside one’s household and            road to becoming the renowned sculpting
cracker packs, peanuts, cheese          Regency on Whidbey posted this letter to its Facebook page Friday, informing residents
                                                                                                                    limiting outdoor gatherings to no           duo they are now.
sticks, water bottles, Gatorade. Any    and families of four positive COVID-19 tests at its Oak Harbor memory care facility.
                                                                                                                    more than five people from outside
donated meals must be packaged                                                                                                                                  “I grew up in Pennsylvania, did my under-
                                                                                                                    a household, to try to stop the
individually, with disposable uten-                                                                                                                             graduate work there, went out to University
                                                                                                                    spread of the virus.
sils. Letters and notes of encouragement or thinking of you cards                                                                                               of Washington for my graduate work—
are also welcome.                                                                         As always, people are encouraged to wear a mask in public, keep at    where I met Randy,” said Gerber. “We’ve
                                                                                          least six feet of distance from others and wash hands frequently.     been doing this together for over 35 years.”
For residents, Mendiola said cards and notes are also welcome. The
elderly and people with underlying health conditions are thought to                       Find more information at islandcountywa.gov or coronavirus.
be more susceptible to COVID-19, so many long term care facilities                        wa.gov.                                                                        See SCULPTURE continued on page 14

                                                          TM
                                                                       Local Craft Beer,
                                                                       Delicious Food,
                                                                       Heated Outdoor
                                                                       Covered Seating!
                                                                       Enjoy a freshly brewed beer with
                                                                       menu items featuring smoked
                                                                       meats from CURED by Visconti.
           Two Taproom Locations                                            Take-Out and To-Go Orders
       Oak Harbor | 780 SE Bayshore Dr.                                     Online Ordering
           Coupeville | 103 S. Main                                         Happy Hour Specials
   CRAFT. COMMUNITY. COLLABORATION.                                         penncovebrewing.com

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www.whidbeyweekly.com
                                                                                  Whidbey Weekly                                            NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 2, 2020                             7
  LOCALLY OWNED                                                                                                                                               LOCALLY OPERATED

What’s Going On
                                                                                                                                                              Classes, Seminars and
                                                                                                                                                              Workshops
                                                                                                                                                              Medicare Prescription Coverage,
                                                                                                                                                              Supplies & Services
                                                                                                                                                              Tuesday, December 1, 11:00am
                                                                                                                                                              The right Medicare Part D prescription drug
                                                                                                                                                              plan or Medicare Advantage plan, one that
                                                                                                                                                              best meets your specific healthcare needs, can
                                                                                                                                                              save you hundreds of dollars in co-pays. Major
                                                                                                                                                              changes for 2021 include plans that cap insu-
All entries are listed chronologically, unless there   crafts and gifts. Proceeds go to local              Upcoming Sno-Isle Library Events                   lin at $35 per month and Medicare Advan-
are multiple entries for the same venue or are         charities. Orders can be picked up at 5217          See schedule below                                 tage for people with End Stage Renal Disease.
connected to a specific organization (such as          Honeymoon Bay Road, Freeland. Visit www.            Cost: Free                                         Medicare Part B covers medically neces-
Sno-Isle Libraries) in which case all entries for      staugustinesholidaymarket.org.                                                                         sary equipment and supplies, including test
                                                                                                           Craft and Chat: Wool Handwarmers
that venue or organization are listed collectively                                                                                                            strips, monitors, and glucose pumps. Join the
                                                       Shop Out For Kids                                   Friday, December 11, 11:00am
in chronological order under one heading.                                                                                                                     Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advi-
                                                       Thursday, December 10, 11:00am-5:00pm               Craft and Chat is an online social event that
Tilth Winter Market                                                                                                                                           sors (SHIBA) to learn about covered screen-
                                                       Aqua Gifts, 2 Front St, Coupeville                  offers you the opportunity to skill share, learn
Sunday, November 29, 11:00am-2:00pm                                                                                                                           ings, self-management training and therapies.
                                                       Aqua Gifts will donate a portion of its sales       about library resources and make connections       Medicare open enrollment ends Dec. 7 - the
Sunday, December 6, 11:00am-2:00pm
                                                       to the Coupeville Schools Foundation. The           with fellow crafters. In this Craft and Chat       time is now!
Sunday, December 13, 11:00am-2:00pm
                                                       Foundation provides an extra measure of             session we will create wool handwarmers.
2812 Thompson Road, Langley                                                                                                                                   This free Medicare presentation, offered by
                                                       support through teacher grants, college             This meeting takes place on Zoom. To get a         Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors
Featuring hot food and beverages, produce,             scholarships and the Promise Fund.                  Zoom invitation, please register. Email address
baked goods, swags, wreaths and garlands,                                                                                                                     (SHIBA), a program of the Office of the Insur-
                                                                                                           is required.                                       ance Commissioner, is available online using
soaps, gifts, and more. SNAP EBT customers             South Whidbey Fire/EMS Santa’s
                                                                                                                                                              your computer or laptop. Or you can listen
and credit card payments welcome. COVID                Sleigh                                              Meetings & Organizations                           in using your telephone. Call Island Senior
safety rules are in place, please wear a mask          Thursday, December 10, 5:30-7:30pm
                                                       Friday, December 11, 5:30-7:30pm
                                                                                                           Ryan’s House for Youth Virtual                     Resources at 360-321-1600, ext. 0 for infor-
when attending. High wind, snow or ice
cancels. For more information, visit www.              Saturday, December 12, 4:30-7:30pm                  Town Hall                                          mation.
southwhidbeytilth.org or on Facebook.                  Bayview Fire Station, Langley                       Tuesday, December 8, 7:00pm                        Final Open Enrollment Clinic -
                                                                                                           Thursday, December 10, 2:00pm                      Island County Medicare
Live Nativity                                          An annual tradition since 1995. Drive up the        Zoom meeting
Saturday, December 5, 5:30-8:00pm                      hill to enjoy lights, music, decorations, goody                                                        Wednesday, December 2, 10:00am
Oak Harbor Christian School,                           bags and greetings from Santa. Remain in            Ryan’s House for Youth (RHFY) is develop-          Join Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advi-
675 E Whidbey Ave.                                     your vehicle and follow safety guidelines. The      ing a strategic plan and its goal is to move       sors (SHIBA) to learn Medicare options for
                                                       Bayview Fire Station is located at 5579 Bayview     forward with the input of the community. This      2021. You will discuss new Medicare Advan-
Oak Harbor Christian School invites you to
                                                       Road. For more information, visit SWFE.org.         meeting is focused on gathering meaningful         tage Plans available to Island County residents,
experience Christ’s birth through the scenes
                                                                                                           views for strategic planning for RHFY’s young      and how to select the least expensive Part D
being played out before you from your car.             Annual Holiday Food Drive                           adult campus in Coupeville, and its school         plan for your prescriptions. Medicare Open
Step back in time and experience this joyous           Through December 16                                 age drop-in center in Oak Harbor to better         Enrollment ends Dec. 7.
event. Drive through from the comfort of your          South Whidbey K-4 Campus, Langley                   serve the youth and young adults of Whidbey        This free Medicare presentation, offered by
car. Live animals and music. Popcorn and a
                                                       Bins located at main entrance. Accepting            Island. If you would like to be a part of help-    Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors
craft for kids (while supplies last). Admission is
free. Visit oakharborchristian.org.                    packaged non-perishable food items.                 ing Ryan’s House for Youth create a plan to        (SHIBA), a program of the Office of the Insur-
                                                       Suggested items needed: peanut butter, jam,         help the homeless and disenfranchised youth        ance Commissioner, is available online using
Holiday Market                                         chili, soups, biscuit mix, tomato products, fruit   of Whidbey Island there are two meeting times      your computer or laptop. Or you can listen
Through December 10                                    juice, beans, rice, flour, sugar, canned fruits     to choose from. You can register by calling        in using your telephone. Call Island Senior
www.staugustinesholidaymarket.org                      and vegetables etc. The school is located at        360-682-2748 or emailing ryanshousefory-           Resources at 360-321-1600, ext. 0 for infor-
Online store featuring one-of-a-kind                   5380 Maxwelton Rd.                                  outh@gmail.com.                                    mation.

   Coupeville & Central Whidbey Curbside To Go & Take Out
  bayleaf                                                Greenbank Deli                                     Phad Thai
  360-678-6603                                           360-222-3623                                       360-678-6963
                                                         www.greenbankstore.com/pantry                      www.phadthaicoupeville.com
                                                                                                                                                              The Oystercatcher
  Callen's Restaurant                                                                                                                                         360-678-0683
  360-499-2306                                           Greenbank Farm Wine Shop                           Pizza Factory                                     www.oystercatcherwhidbey.com
  www.callensrestaurant.com                              360-222-3797                                       360-678-3200
                                                         greenbankfarmwineshop.com                          coupeville.pizzafactory.com
                                                                                                                                                              Toby's Tavern
  Ciao                                                                                                                                                        360-678-4222
  360-678-0800                                           Lavender Wind Bakery                               Prairie Perks                                     www.tobysuds.com
  www.ciaocoupeville.com                                 360-544-4132                                       prairie-perks.square.site
                                                         www.lavenderwind.com

                                                                                                                                                              Tyee Restaurant
  Coffee On The Cove                                                                                        Sunshine Drip                                     360-678-6616
                                                         Little Red Hen Bakery                                                                                www.tyee4u.com
  360-632-0922                                           360-682-5809                                       360-682-6201
                                                         www.littleredhenbakerywhidbey.com                  www.sunshinedrip.com

  Currents Bistro                                                                                                                                             Vail Wine Shop
  Closed Until December 14                                                                                                                                    360-632-2227
                                                         Old Spots Bistro                                   The Cove Coupeville                               www.vailwineshop.com
  360-678-5480                                           360-678-1288                                       360-678-3621
  www.currentsbistro.com                                 www.oldspotsbistro.com
  Front Street Grill                                                  Thursday-Sunday
  360-682-2551
  www.fsgcoupeville.com
                                                       THANK YOU FOR DINING LOCAL
                                                       BY ORDERING TO GO!

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8     NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 2, 2020
                                                                            Whidbey Weekly                                                                      www.whidbeyweekly.com
         LOCALLY OWNED                                                                                                                                          LOCALLY OPERATED

Insurance and You
                                                                                                      BITS ‘n’ PIECES    continued from page     5        of all the property owners we have assisted
                                                                                                      Coupeville Arts and Crafts                          these years. I can relate. It is a big responsi-
                                                                                                      Festival Announces 2021 Dates                       bility to care for our land. Since my husband
                                                                                                                                                          and I bought property and began Maha Farm
By Mary Elizabeth Himes                           • Review your policy every two years with           The Coupeville Festival Association announced
                                                                                                                                                          and Forest, understanding and managing our
                                                    your agent or carrier to make certain you         the dates for the 2021 Coupeville Arts and
                                                                                                                                                          island’s natural resources has been a passion
Homeowners Claims                                   have enough coverage.
                                                  • Keep a copy of important documents in
                                                                                                      Crafts Festival as Aug. 14 and 15. This will
                                                                                                      mark the 57th year of the festival providing
                                                                                                                                                          for us. I enjoyed the conferences and loads of
                                                                                                                                                          information about how we can do a better
Insurance is an agreement between parties to        a fireproof container and create digital          art, entertainment and family friendly activities
                                                                                                                                                          job preserving and embracing our island envi-
transfer risk, meaning one party pays another       copies and email to yourself (emails are          to the Town of Coupeville and the whole of
                                                                                                                                                          ronment. Thanks for having me represent the
                                                                                                      Whidbey Island.
party to provide financial compensation in          accessible when computer files can be                                                                 south end of the island and good luck with all
the event of loss of assets, property or life.      damaged).                                         The festival has traditionally brought upwards      your projects in the future.”
Americans are most familiar with personal         • Take photos of each room of your home             of 18,000 visitors to the charming Coupeville
                                                                                                                                                          Past board president Ed Adams, “I enjoyed
insurance which protects their homes and                                                              waterfront over a two day period.
                                                    and email them to yourself, to document                                                               my five years serving as a board member for
cars; the problem is most Americans do              items.                                            Proceeds from the festival are returned each        WICD. It was very rewarding to work with a
not understand what they are paying for.          • Insure, if possible, irreplaceable valuables      year in the form of community grants and            dedicated board to help guide the district in its
We want to help you have a better under-            and collectibles as standard policies have a      student scholarships. To date the festival has      mission. The district employees are a talented
standing and, over time, use this platform to                                                         returned over $1 million in direct and indirect     team of professionals providing excellent
                                                    limit on what will be paid under a certain
educate you about personal insurance and its                                                          funding to a wide variety of art and historic       conservation solutions to Whidbey Island land
                                                    category.
benefits.                                                                                             projects and will continue to do so.                managers. It was satisfying to see conservation
                                                  • Keep all receipts, no matter what for.
The importance of understanding coverages                                                             If you have questions about the festival or         applied on the island helping to protect our
                                                  Renters insurance also provides coverage            would like to volunteer, please visit Coupe-        natural resources.”
cannot be ignored. Our last column discussed
                                                  for personal belongings and living expenses         villeFestival.com or email CFAPresident@gmail.
some areas of maintenance to be aware of                                                                                                                  For more information, contact Matt Zupich,
                                                  due to being displaced under a covered loss.        com.                                                manager, Whidbey Island Conservation
around your home to avoid damage and
                                                  Renters must seriously consider insurance of        [Submitted by Deborah OBrien]                       District, at 360-678-4708 or matt@whidbeycd.
claims issues. Sometimes, even though you
                                                  their belongings and living expenses in the                                                             org.
have done your best to make your home safe                                                            Whidbey Island Conservation
                                                  event of a loss. The cost can be a low as $12
and free of hazards, a loss can still occur.                                                          District Seeks Supervisor                           [Submitted by Shannon Bly, Outreach Coordi-
                                                  per month to protect peace of mind and
                                                                                                      Candidates for Upcoming                             nator, WICD]
Prior to filing a claim, you should contact       property.
your insurance agent to advise you. If you                                                            Election and Appointment Cycle                      Local Business News
                                                  If a claim is filed, the insured must work with
call the carrier directly, your policy may be                                                         The terms of two Whidbey Island Conservation
                                                  the carrier and provide all documentation                                                               Penn Cove Brewing Taprooms
documented with a claims inquiry even if                                                              District (WICD) supervisors, one elected and
                                                  and information requested to adjusters and                                                              are Open and Ready to Serve
you decide not to file a claim. In the state                                                          one appointed, are due to expire in 2021. Both
                                                  investigators. An investigation into a claim
of Washington, a homeowner’s claim will                                                               positions have three-year terms beginning in        With Governor Inslee announcing new state-
                                                  can take up to 30 days to complete and it is
result in additional premiums for up to five                                                          May 2021. The elected incumbent, Sarah Rich-        wide restrictions on restaurants, bars and
                                                  important to keep communication open with           ards, is not planning to run for re-election. The   social gatherings this past week, Penn Cove
years and will follow the home and insured
                                                  the adjusters and ask questions. Utilize your       appointed incumbent, Dave Edwards, will be          Brewing Company, like many local businesses
when looking at new insurance. Wind, water
                                                  agent if you have concerns about the claims         seeking re-appointment.                             on Whidbey Island, has stayed nimble, rolling
and fire are the claims which result in the
                                                  process, payments and requirements of all                                                               with the punches, committed to its founding
most severe damage to the home and in                                                                 Any registered Island County voter who
                                                  parties.                                                                                                principles of craft, community and collabora-
most cases, the insured has no control over                                                           resides on Whidbey Island and is also a land-
stopping the damage because these are the         Choosing a general contractor will not be           owner or farm operator may be eligible to run       tion. While these new mandates bring several
                                                  something an agent will do for an insured.          for the elected position and/or apply for the       changes to its day-to-day operations, both its
results to nature or sudden accidents.
                                                  The relationship between the insured,               appointed position.                                 Coupeville and Oak Harbor Taprooms remain
Here on Whidbey Island, the wind has picked                                                                                                               open for business, committed to the safety of
                                                  contractor and carrier will require constant        To run for the upcoming elected position and
up, trees are falling and branches are flying.                                                                                                            its patrons and the health and livelihood of its
                                                  communication and the agent will be able to         have their name printed on the ballot, individ-
There is also an increase of house fires due to                                                                                                           employees.
                                                  support the insured with information only.          uals must submit a PF-A Candidate Informa-
issues with fireplaces and malfunctions with                                                                                                              Perhaps the most difficult aspect of these new
                                                  There are standard processes during the filing      tion form by 4:00pm, Dec. 11. The PF-A form
heating elements. Some homeowners have                                                                                                                    restrictions to navigate was the elimination of
                                                  of the claim; however, claim resolution may         is available for download at www.whidbeycd.
had tree branches fall and pierce the roof of                                                                                                             indoor service. Owners Marc and Mitch Apari-
                                                  vary amongst carriers and so it is extremely        org/elections under Candidate Information.
the home, or had large branches or trees fall                                                                                                             cio were game for the challenge, and over the
                                                  important your agent stays informed during          Interested candidates may file their completed
through the roof. During windstorms rain is                                                           form by mailing it to WICD, P.O. Box 490,           past week, with the help of their staff, have
                                                  the claims process until it closes. It is import-
not far behind and water can come through                                                             Coupeville, WA 98239, or scanning and email-        taken several steps to make the outdoor areas
                                                  ant to have a consistent exchange with the
the broken roof, resulting in water damage                                                            ing it to wicd@whidbeycd.org.                       at both taprooms as cozy and inviting as possi-
                                                  adjusters and understand who, what where
to insulation, drywall and personal property.                                                                                                             ble. A recent visit to their Coupeville Taproom
                                                  when and why during the process.                    To be considered for the appointed position,
In this instance, call your agent right away                                                                                                              revealed their entire patio area covered with
                                                                                                      candidates must submit an online AF1 appli-
as they will have access to companies that        The information below is from the Office of                                                             a new large tent, complete with five fire pits,
                                                                                                      cation form to the Washington State Conser-
can assist with immediate repairs, board ups      the Insurance Commissioner website.                                                                     patio heaters and outdoor lighting. The patio
                                                                                                      vation Commission by March 31. A link to the
and tarps. Small house fires can also create      You are entitled to:                                                                                    at their Oak Harbor taproom received a similar
                                                                                                      AF1 form is available at www.whidbeycd.org/
additional problems with smoke damage and                                                                                                                 treatment, with three new fire pits on display.
                                                                                                      elections under Candidate Information.
soot in the house and require the inhabitants     • A clear explanation of what’s covered                                                                 Food service remains available on both patios
                                                  • An itemized statement outlining how the           WICD will hold its annual Board of Supervi-         throughout the restricted period, and custom-
to move for a short time to clear the soot
                                                    company will pay your claim                       sors election Feb, 2. To vote, one must be a        ers looking to enjoy Penn Cove products to go,
and smoke from the home.
                                                                                                      registered voter in Island County and reside on     including growler fills, hot food, merchandise,
                                                  • A prompt response from the company
Fire claims can be the most complicated                                                               Whidbey Island.                                     and gift certificates will enjoy the ease and
because the damage can affect the dwelling,       • Timely payments and a claim decision
                                                                                                      The election will be done entirely by mail-in       convenience of the new online ordering portal
personal property and loss of use coverages.      • An appraisal if you disagree with the             ballot this year, due to COVID-19 consider-         located on its website.
An insured will need to deal with being             amount of your loss                               ations. Ballots are available only by request,      For those concerned about the beer, fear not,
displaced from their home, losing personal        • You can work with the adjuster your               and the deadline to request is 4:00pm Jan. 19.      the malt masters at Whidbey Island’s larg-
possessions and the trauma of the devasta-          insurance company sends or you can hire           Ballot requests can be made by submitting an        est brewery are staying as busy as ever. The
tion of the fire to the structure of the home.      a public adjuster (a licensed person who          online request via www.whidbeycd.org/elec-          past few months have seen some unique new
Some tips to help stay organized in the event       works on your behalf to appraise and              tions under Voter Information, by emailing          offerings come out of the tanks at Penn Cove,
of a fire loss would be:                            negotiate your property-insurance claim)          wicd@whidbeycd.org, or by calling 360-678-          from their high-octane Madrona Imperial IPA,
                                                                                                      4708.                                               to Farmer Dale’s Pumpkin Stout, to their new
                                                                                                      WICD will begin to mail ballots Dec. 30 to          line of hard seltzers. Seasonal beer lovers will
                                                                                                      those who request one. Completed ballots            also be thrilled to learn Assistant Brewer Erick
                                                                                                      must be received by WICD no later than              Adam has not one, not two, but three special
                                                                                                      4:00pm Feb. 2. Visit www.whidbeycd.org/elec-        brews on deck for the holidays: a Christmas
                                                                                                      tions for more information.                         Witbier, a Chocolate-Covered-Cherry Stout

     AUTO INSURANCE                                                                                   The WICD Board of Supervisors consists of           and a Fireside Ale. Those keen on enjoying
                                                                                                      five volunteer members, three elected by local      their beer at home will be excited to hear that
                                                                                                                                                          in addition to making keg sales public, Penn
     DESIGNED FOR AARP MEMBERS                                                                        voters and two appointed by the Washington
                                                                                                                                                          Cove will also be offering canned beer starting
                                                                                                      State Conservation Commission (WSCC), each
  Reach out today and let’s talk about your needs.                                                    serving a three-year term without compensa-         at the end of the month thanks to the recent
                                                                                                      tion. District supervisors identify local conser-   acquisition of a Crowler machine!
                           Mary Elizabeth Himes                                                       vation needs and priorities, oversee district       The new online ordering portal can be found
                                                                                                      financial operations, set district policies, and    at: https://penncovebrewing.com/online-order-
                           Safe Harbor Agency                                                         guide district services to protect soil, water,     ing-locations.
                           360-675-6663                                                               wildlife, and other natural resources.
                           MARY@SAFEHARBORWHIDBEY.COM                                                                                                     Penn Cove Brewing Company’s new hours of
                                                                                                      Past board member Anza Muenchow, “I                 operation:
                                                                                                      appreciate the opportunity to have served
                                                                                                      Whidbey Island on the Conservation District         Coupeville Taproom
                                                                                                      board of supervisors these last few years. The      Sunday-Thursday 12:00-8:00pm
                                                                                                      management and staff at WICD have been a            Friday-Saturday 12:00-10:00pm
                                                                                                      pleasure to work with. They are a committed,        Oak Harbor Taproom
                                                                                                      smart, hardworking crew. I especially appre-        Tuesday-Thursday 3:00-8:00pm
                                                                                                      ciate learning about the struggles and goals        Friday-Saturday 3:00-10:00pm

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www.whidbeyweekly.com
                                                                           Whidbey Weekly                                             NOVEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 2, 2020                                     9
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Deadline is the Thursday prior to publication.
                                                           SOUTH WHIDBEY FIRE/EMS SANTA’S SLEIGH
                                                      Drive up the hill to enjoy lights, music, decorations, goody bags and greetings from Santa.               Black & White Sale
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                                                        FOR                                                                                                  T-shirts, hats, masks, socks,
                                                        THE                                                                                                      plush toys, jewelry,
                                                                                                                                                                   mugs and more!
                                                      HOLIDAYS!                                                                                                www.orcanetwork.org

                                                                                          CUSTOM SIGNS MADE WITH                                              The Langley Whale Center
                                                            WASHINGTON
                                                                                           LICENSE PLATE LETTERS.                                             is closed through Dec. 14th
                                                      ALFANO’S CUSTOM                     Perfect for your favorite team, family name, nickname,
                                                      License Plate Signs                 street address... just about anything you can spell out!
                                                                                               Choose from distressed wood, stained wood or
                                                                                             routed pine painted, many colors to choose from.
                                                                                                                                                               Follow us on Facebook
                                                     Donn Alfano • 559-930-6228 • alfano.d@comcast.net                                                        105 Anthes Ave • Langley

                                                                                                                                                                     2
           Holly Farm • Family Fun • Gift Shop                                                                               Shop, Dine and Stay
                Open: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm • Sunday 1pm-4pm
              November 7 thru December 24 • Closed: November 25 & 26                                                                                                2
                                                                                                            at These Participating Merchants! Earn Tickets and a Chance to

            Visit Our Machine Shed For Bargains!
         Fresh-Cut Christmas Trees (2-15 ft)
                   Noble, Fraser, Silver & Grand Fir
           Fresh Holly Wreaths • Bulk Holly • Centerpieces • Swags • Garlands
                                                                                                                    WIN
                                                                                                            Coupeville Chamber of Commerce
                                                                                                                Rain Puddles Kids Boutique
                                                                                                                                                                   BIG!
                                                                                                                                                                    Island County Historical Museum
                                                                                                                                                                     The Seaside Salon and Spa
    Soaps & Sachets • Herbs • Home & Holiday Décor • Local Products • Specialty Foods                              Balanced Mind Hypnosis
                   Check for sales and updates on our Facebook page!                                                Coupeville Auto Repair                             Rain Shadow Nursery
                                                                                                                    Briggs Shore Ceramics                               Whidbey Natural Pet
                4233 DeGraff Road • Oak Harbor                                                                      Little Red Hen Bakery                               The Tyee Restaurant
                         360-240-1216 or 360-298-0443                                                               Collections Boutique                                 The Coupeville Inn
               www.aknotinthyme.com • aknotinthyme@frontier.com                                                                                                           the Oystercatcher
                                                                                                                     Callen’s Restaurant                                   Penn Cove Gallery
                                                                                                                    Front Street Realty
                                                                                                                                                                            Penn Cove Brewing
                                                                                                                     The Crow’s Roost
                                                                                                                                                                             Madrona Blossom

     Tilth Winter M arket
                                                                                                                    A Touch of Dutch
                                                                                                                                                                              The Honey Bear
                                                                                                                    Front Street Grill
                                                                                                                                                                               Sea Bre’s Yarns
                                                                                                                     Currents Bistro
                                                                                                                     Sunshine Drip                                              Lavender Wind
                                                                                                                     Toby’s Tavern                                               Marbley
                                                                                                                       Salon Blue                                                 bayleaf

                                      Sundays, 11 am to 2 pm                                                          Aqua Gifts                                                   Ciao

                                        November 29, December 6 & 13                                        Each $20                                                          1500, $

                                           Hot Food & Beverages • Produce                                   Purchase
                                                                                                               =
                                                                                                                                                                              500 & $

                                          Baked Goods • Swags, Wreaths &                                                           Red               2020             Ticket 3 $100
                                                                                                           1 Red                                                                    PRIZES!
                                          Garlands • Soaps • Gifts & More!                                 Ticket                            S h op L o c a ll y                   Weekly Drawings
                                                                                                                                                                                   for Gift Baskets!
                                         SNAP EBT Customers & Credit Card Payments Welcome                    Win cash prizes by participating in our Facebook Live Event at 1pm on Sunday, Dec. 20th.
                                                                                                                    Tune in to the Live Event through the CHWA or Coupeville Chamber website,
                                          COVID Safety Rules Are in Place. Wear a Mask Please                     or through the CHWA Facebook page in order to win. Must be 18 years or older.

                                        2812 Thompson Road on SR 525, Langley                                 CoupevilleHistoricWaterfront.com • CoupevilleChamber.com
                                  High wind, Snow or Ice Cancels: www.southwhidbeytilth.org or
                                        Facebook: #SouthWhidbeyTitlhFarmersMarket

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