Island News
Last days to make an impact in our community through Spring GiveOrcas
Submitted by the Orcas Island Community Foundation.
Inspired by Orcas, fashion designer DeAnda launches new label
MANNISH, the emerging fashion label by model and creative director Gregory DeAnda, launches its debut collection, artists+immigrants, a deeply personal first outing that reimagines classic workwear through the lens of heritage, resilience and self-expression.
Climbing beyond the summit | Letter
All my life, I’ve been driven by goals. But not achieving a goal is very different from failing.
Are you entering something in the fair? Check out these important dates for 2026 fair exhibitors!
Submitted by San Juan County.
The ÖTILLÖ Swimrun returns to Orcas on May 31
The ÖTILLÖ Swimrun returns to Orcas on May 31, and race organizers have once again selected the Booster Club as a beneficiary of funds raised during the event. Last year, the race donated $1,200 to the club.
When they call, we answer: The “Dirty 30” join Orcas Island Fire & Rescue
“Tonight, you stand here not just having completed an academy, but having earned your place in the fire service. You now carry a badge that represents something far greater than yourself. It represents trust, it represents responsibility, and it represents a promise to this community, a promise that when they call, you will answer.” — Fire Chief Chad Kimple
An Exciting Evolution for SJIMA
The San Juan Islands Museum of Art (SJIMA) announces a new chapter with the departure of Executive Director Blake DeYoung at the end of May. DeYoung is leaving the museum to become the new Executive Director of the Skagit Valley College San Juan Center branch, replacing Randy Martin. The transition reflects DeYoung’s deep roots in […]
May 20: DOL mobile van in Friday Harbor
May 20 | 9 am to 3 pm | San Juan Island Grange Hall | Friday Harbor DOL2Go focuses on helping under-resourced Washington residents get the services they need to live, work, drive and thrive. The mobile unit offers the same services as our traditional offices, including: First time Washington driver license or ID card, […]
May 21: Health Dept closed for training
San Juan Community Home Trust names new Executive Director
Jess Blanch is the new Executive Director of San Juan Community Home Trust, effective June 15, 2026. Jess brings more than 20 years of experience in architecture, affordable housing, and community development, with a proven track record of leading teams through growth, innovation, and meaningful community impact. Most recently, she served as Associate Director of […]
June 3: San Juan Islands Sculpture Park Monthly Bird Walk
Join us at the San Juan Islands Sculpture Park, June 3, 2026 from 8-10 am, for our monthly bird walk with local birder and enthusiast Tyler Davis. Early June can have unpredictable weather but we are all ready to get outside along with a few of our favorite birds. We will be looking for […]
In Memoriam | Larry Hughes: A life of service on Orcas Island
||| FROM RESOURCE CENTER COMMUNICATIONS TEAM||| Our community has lost a treasured Orcas Island presence. Larry Hughes was a quiet, steady light for so many on Orcas—the ones who felt unseen, unheard, or already forgotten. Where others saw obstacles, Larry saw a person with a life worth living. He met people right where they were, on the streets and in the shadows, and walked with them toward safety, dignity, and hope. Larry moved to Orcas after spending much of his […]
Outdoor burning prohibited in Town of Friday Harbor
Outdoor burning is prohibited year-round within Friday Harbor town limits per state law with the exception of recreational fires within approved containers. This prohibition includes the burning of leaves, clippings, prunings, and other land clearing or gardening refuse. Outside of town, contact San Juan County for burn regulations and permits. Friday Harbor Municipal Code Chapter […]
Orcas Island Garden Club grows plants, friendships
||| FROM ORCAS ISLAND GARDEN CLUB ||| Over the years, our club has grown into something truly special by focusing on cultivating friendships and genuine connections. It’s amazing how much the club has grown, too. We are 267 members strong. Just like a garden, these relationships bloom when we look after them. Plus, hanging out with positive, supportive folks and spending time in nature is great for your health—it lowers stress, boosts your mood, and beats loneliness! Think of our […]
Reminder | WSF online meetings next Tuesday
||| FROM WASHINGTON STATE FERRIES ||| We’re hosting two online community meetings on Tuesday, May 26. This is a great chance to share feedback and ask us questions. We’ll cover topics including the upcoming FIFA World Cup, an updated pet policy, new vessel construction, and our Service Contingency Plan. Both meetings will cover the same topics, and most of the time will be dedicated to answering questions. Registration is required. To learn more and register, visit our Community Participation we
San Juan County joins a statewide push to stop wildlife feeding — One sign at a time
San Juan County joins a statewide push to stop wildlife feeding — one sign at a time
Derevensky and Stern win seats in OPALCO 2026 board election
Submitted by the Orcas Power &Light Cooperative.
OIHS sends baseball team to state; softball season concludes; track has strong state showing
by Declan O’Malley
Art for Orcas Kids celebrates Arts Education Month with the Annual Student Art Exhibit at the Orcas Center
Dear families and community members,
‘The Source’ raises questions | Column
By Cory Harrington
San Juan Preservation Trust Completes ‘Sea-to-Summit’ Corridor with Protection of Mt. Ben West Preserve
Community raises $1.84 million in eight months to secure a final 30-acre nature preserve link on San Juan Island’s west side. FRIDAY HARBOR, WA — The 30-acre Mt. Ben West Preserve on San Juan Island was permanently protected on March 31, 2026, when San Juan Preservation Trust purchased the property. This milestone caps a decades-long […]
Merri Ann Simonson Real Estate Update: Inventory is building
Below is a Market Snap Shot for San Juan Island for April 30, 2026 from the Simonson & Zambrovitz Team at Coldwell Banker SJI. Inventory is building which will offer buyers more selection. If you have any questions about this information, be sure to contact one of them. Merri Ann Simonson 360.318.8668 simonson@Sanjuanislands.com Terri Zambrovitz […]
May 20: Helping You Cover Your Tomorrows – WA Cares presentation
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 | 12 noon to 1 pm | San Juan Island Library meeting room Helping You Cover Your Tomorrows Ensuring all Washingtonians have access to affordable long-term care. How WA Cares Can Help WA Cares Fund gives you flexibility to choose whatever combination of covered services and supports best meets your care needs. […]
Applications open for WA Cares Fund long-term care benefits
Benefits become available in July OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washingtonians who have contributed to the WA Cares Fund can begin applying for benefits if they need long-term care. Getting started now will give applicants the opportunity to complete the process so they can start services as soon as benefits become available July 1. “We’re excited that […]