Latest News in Anacortes, WA

Your trusted source for local Anacortes, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.

Anacortes Library making cutbacks

Anacortes Library will implement service reductions and adjusted hours due to staffing constraints. The library will close at 3:00 PM on Saturdays starting December 6, with plans to return to a 4:00 PM closure by January 2026. Passport services remain paused, and Hoopla access will end for patrons after December 31, 2025.

Library Book Club

The Anacortes Public Library will host a book club event featuring Erica Bauermeister and Michiko Aoyama on November 24, 2025. The Thanksgiving Classic theme will engage attendees in discussions about literature while fostering community connections.

State agency honors Island Health CEO

Island Health CEO Elise Cutter received the 2025 "Community Star" award from the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health for her contributions to rural healthcare. This marks the first time someone from Skagit County has received this recognition in a decade.

Police Blotter, November 14 - 20, 2025

An officer arrested a man for driving without a license and insurance during a routine traffic stop on November 14. In subsequent incidents, officers responded to harassment complaints and a domestic violence call, but no crimes were reported. Additionally, a man sustained injuries after falling off his bicycle while intoxicated, and a tree fell on another vehicle, causing damage but no injuries.

Elves Night Out

Anacortes will host "Elves Night Out" on Saturday, November 22, 2025, starting at 4 PM. The event aims to promote local businesses during the holiday season in downtown Anacortes.

Mark Dufresne to Perform Blues Concert on November 22, 2025

Mark Dufresne will perform on November 22, 2025, at 7:30 pm, showcasing his talent as a prominent Blues artist in the Northwest. The performance promises to draw attention from local music fans and the Washington Blues Society.

Murmurs at Padilla Bay

A recent walk along the Padilla Bay Shore Trail revealed the beauty of bird murmurations, where hundreds of dunlins executed synchronized aerial patterns to evade predators. The phenomenon, known as the selfish herd effect, showcases how individual birds coordinate movements with their nearest neighbors to enhance survival. This mesmerizing display highlights both the mystery of avian behavior and the interconnectedness of wildlife.

WAs new resident portal promises easier access to state services

Washington state plans to launch a new Resident Portal in early 2026, streamlining access to online services across over 140 agencies. The initiative aims to improve efficiency and security while maintaining public trust, as officials emphasize responsible use of artificial intelligence.

Quantz it Up!

Anacortes Now will host a performance titled "Quantz it Up!" featuring music from the high German Baroque by composers J.S. Bach, G.P. Telemann, and J.J. Quantz. The event is scheduled for Friday, November 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Vicki Bockeman will be among the performers, adding local flair to the concert.

Jazz Lecture Series Featuring Joan Penney and Andy Carr

The Jazz Lecture Series will feature Joan Penney and Andy Carr on November 20, 2025, at 2:00 pm, focusing on jazz vocalese and vocalizing. This event aims to educate attendees about the art of vocal jazz.

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