Literary, October 2023
Excerpts From “The Heart of Vashon”
“The Heart of Vashon: Sharing Our Stories” is a lovingly written tribute to the Island. The stories were originally solicited for a community-building literary project of the same name spearheaded by Mary G. L. Shackelford and Shirley Ferris in 2015. The book may be purchased at the Vashon Heritage Museum, Vashon Bookshop, and Vashon Pharmacy….
Entertainment, Llaughing Llamas, October 2023
Llaughing Llamas Chronicles
By Daniel Hooker Compliments of my land lady, and expanded upon by me: I used to be interested in being a banker, just like my grandfather in Nome, Alaska. But I lost interest in making cold, hard cash. ~ You can get a sleigh online this time of year, if you’re willing toboggan. ~ What…
Island Voices, October 2023
Beer and the “Tourist Dollar”
By the Footloose Foodie Hello friends and neighbors! I have returned from summer adventures. Alaska, crabbing on the Peninsula, visiting family, and embracing new friendships. The last I wrote the plan was to visit, breweries on Vashon. I tried, but was disappointed. One was not following posted business hours and the other, well, was less…
Arrival Stories, October 2023
What Brought You to the Island?
My name is Rose. I woke up to a glowing light and many, many brothers and sisters. I ate, drank and slept, and then suddenly I was in a box. The box opened, and I was on Vashon. It’s great, except for the dogs, cats, raccoons, coyotes, eagles, and hawks. And the cold. And the…
October 2023
Vashon-Maury Island Welcomes Its Newest Resident
Say hello to “The Bird King.” He holds court at Point Robinson Park on Maury Island daily from 8 AM until dusk, and entrances young and old alike, including a curmudgeon or two at The Vashon Loop. Drive to 3705 SW Point Robinson Road, and park in the upper lot. Then follow the steady flow…
October 2023, Recipes
Autumn Plum Chutney
By Claudia Hernandez Not much is better on a leisurely weekend afternoon than a snack of sharp cheese, good bread, and a homemade preserve. At once spicy, sweet, and tangy, this plays well not only on a cheese board, but also spread on roasted winter squash or a sandwich. This recipe for Autumn Plum Chutney…
News, September 2023
Vashon Meets Spanish Soccer
By Andy Valencia The cafes of Vashon certainly provide coffee drinks, but their true value is in the surprises that often accompany your order. At Luna one morning, I was just getting my laptop ready when I heard a young woman in line mentioning that she had returned from playing semi-pro soccer in Europe. I…
Commentary, Island Voices, September 2023
Housing Solutions For Everyone – Not Only the Wealthy
By David Earle Vashon, along with many other established communities in western Washington, has a serious housing problem. Land hoarding is a thing. For instance, the Reed family of Tacoma owns 770,000 acres of land in Washington State. There are many landowners in the United States who own more than 1,000,000 acres. Our property tax code encourages…