NAS WHIDBEY ISLAND ALL HANDS
(GENERAL INFORMATION)
If you have submissions for the weekly All Hands General Information email, please send all requests to: naswipao@us.navy.mil
THIS WEEK:
Coupeville Elementary Transition to Kindergarten
Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing
NASWI Honor Guard Team
Installation permit required if you want to hunt on base
Whidbey Farm and Market Events
Wings of Hope Chapel Programs
Island County Burn Ban Type II in Effect
Pre-Retirement Seminars Presented by the Civilian Benefits Center
Pool Use Partnerships
North Puget Sound Dragon Boat Club – Team Tsunami
Talkspace: Mental health therapy and self-guided support
WIC Can Help!
NMCRS Update
Foreign National Installation Access
Musicians Wanted
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Some of the following information includes public events and does not imply endorsement by the United States Navy. It is provided for informational purposes only.
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Coupeville Elementary Transition to Kindergarten
Coupeville Elementary School still has Transition to Kindergarten Program openings available.
This program is free and available to children who are 4 years old as of August 31, 2025. Please reach out to Coupeville Elementary to inquire more about it at (360) 678-4834 or (360) 678-2470.
Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing
Connect and Heal with North Sound Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing
Looking for a way to unwind, connect, and rediscover the healing power of the outdoors? North Sound Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing invites all veterans and active-duty service members to be part of a unique program focused on connection, camaraderie, and community healing.
Through fly fishing education, outings, and fellowship, participants build lasting bonds and find peace through nature. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just curious to learn, Project Healing Waters offers an inclusive and welcoming environment—no experience or equipment required.
Join the Oak Harbor Class
Location: The American Legion George Morris Post, 690 SE Barrington Dr, Oak Harbor
When: First Thursday of every month
Time: 6:30 PM
Classes cover everything from fly tying to casting techniques, along with opportunities to share stories, laugh, and support each other.
Come for the fishing—stay for the connection.
For more information or to get involved, visit https://projecthealingwaters.org or email Oak Harbor Lead, Mike Bradford, at michael.bradford@projecthealingwaters.org.
NASWI Honor Guard Team
The NASWI Honor Guard is looking for dedicated Sailors interested in joining the base’s Honor Guard Team. The Honor Guard Team conducts funeral honors for veterans and color guards for various ceremonies.
Joining the Honor Guard is an excellent way for sailors to:
- Enhance their competitiveness for special program packages and promotions.
- Strengthen their professional development and leadership skills.
- Represent the Navy with distinction and honor.
- Team Members who participate in 30 services will receive a Navy Achievement Medal.
Sailors who are interested in learning more can attend the weekly training event held in Building 385, the base headquarters building, on Wednesday at 1000. The training is held in the building’s basement. Please ask the quarterdeck watch for directions if you are unsure of whether to go.
For more information, please contact ABF1 Tito at extension 7-3639 or via email at
joseph.s.tito.mil@us.navy.mil.
Whidbey Farm & Market Events – Fall 2025
Friday to Sunday – Events run 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (unless noted)
- Opening Day – September 19
Kick off the season with family-friendly activities and seasonal treats.
- Annual Corn Fest – September 20–21
Celebrate the harvest with corn-themed fun, games, and live music.
- Scarecrow Competition – Drop-off: September 27 | Voting ends: October 12
Enter your scarecrow for a chance to win! Fun for schools, clubs, and families.
- Pumpkin Carving – October 11 & 19
Carve pumpkins with the family and get creative with your jack-o’-lantern designs.
- Haunted Maze – October 24 & 25 (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM), October 31 (7:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Brave the spooky maze for thrills and chills this Halloween season.
- Corn Hole Competition & Halloween Festivities – Dates & details coming soon
Purchased Activities Include: Corn Maze, Barrel Train, Bale Pyramid, Games & Activities, Hayrides, and more!
Visitors can also purchase a bag to fill with their own “U-Pick” corn or potatoes.
For more information visit their website:
https://www.whidbeyfarmandmarket.com/
Located: 1422 Monroe Landing Rd Oak Harbor, WA 98277 (Across from the Blue Fox Drive-In)
Installation permit required if you want to hunt on base
People interested in hunting on NAS Whidbey Island property during the 2025-2026 season are invited to attend one of two “One-Stop-Shop” meetings being held in August and September.
The next meeting is Sept. 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bldg 130, Gallery Golf Course. Information handouts will cover on-base hunting permit requirements, hunting areas and base access procedures. Hunters may register, pay the $17 permit fee and receive an installation hunting permit.
Civilian hunters may participate in the pheasant release and upland game program on the installation. In order to participate in these on-base hunting programs, all civilian hunters must submit to a National Crime Information Check (NCIC) background check at NAS Whidbey Island prior to being issued an installation hunting permit.
To request access to hunt and get an NCIC background check, you must pick up the required form at the base’s Pass & ID office (building 2853, 360-257-5620) just outside Langley Gate at Ault Field. Langley Gate is located on Langley Boulevard and is open from 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Monday –Friday. You may complete that form at home or fill it out at Pass & ID and have your check done on the spot. Barring any potential issues, a NCIC check can be completed in five minutes. When you submit your request you are required to sign it in person at Pass & ID and present proper REAL ID compliant Personal Identification when you sign the form.
Please be aware that no background check can be initiated after 3:00 p.m., so please keep this in mind when planning your visit for background check processing. Upon successful completion of the background check, you will be given documentation that you will need to bring with you when getting your installation hunting permit. Please plan ahead to meet this requirement! We appreciate your understanding and patience in meeting this new requirement.
All hunters must have an appropriate Washington State hunting license in order to be issued a permit. There are no vendors of State licenses available on the installation. Hunters must present all licenses for the species they wish to hunt to acquire an installation hunting permit. Specific documents required to get your installation hunting permit are:
Pheasant and upland game hunters must bring your DoD-issued identification or State-issued identification and approved NCIC background check and a Western Washington Pheasant License (with odd/even selection).
Waterfowl hunters must present your DoD-issued identification card, Washington State small game license, State migratory bird validation and Federal duck stamp (attached to license and signed across the face).
Deer hunters must present DoD-issued identification card, Washington State big game license with archery only deer option and transport tag.
Questions may be directed to John Phillips, (360) 257-8873, at the installation Environmental Office.
Wings of Hope Chapel Programs
Chaplain’s Notes for the month of September
Weekly Chapel Religious Services:
-Holy Communion (Traditional Protestant from the Anglican Tradition). Wednesdays at 1230.
-Space available in the Chapel for private prayer, meditation or reflection.
-Need to find a place to worship or a fellowship group? Contact the Chapel at 360-257-2414
Getting Married? Had a Baby? Had a religious epiphany?
Weddings, baptisms, confirmations, etc. Chaplain Miller can help with those religious rites tied to major events in your life.
100% confidential counseling with Chaplain Miller
Appointments can be made by scanning:
SafeTALK: 18 September 0800-1100
Location: Base Chapel; Poseidon Room (Room 127)
ASIST: 24-25 September 0800-1600
Location: Base Chapel; Poseidon Room (Room 127)
Anglican Holy Communion: Every Wednesday 1230-1300
Location: Base Chapel; Oratory
NOTICE: Sunday Services will now be offered every Sunday from 1000-1100 in the presiding Chaplains tradition (Protestant)
Location: Base Chapel; Main Sanctuary
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Fellowship: Every Saturday at 1400
Location: Base Chapel;
Growler Room (Room 151)
Navigators Christian Fellowship: Every Sunday 1000-1100
Location: Base Chapel; Growler Room (Room 151)
Officers Christian Fellowship: Sunday, September 21
st and 28
th 1330-1630
Location: Base Chapel; Growler Room (Room 151)
CREDO Retreats:
Navy CREDO inspires hope, builds healthy relationships, and strengthens resiliency, unit cohesion and spiritual fitness. 100% Free.
For more information:
For more information about Religious Accommodations, please reach out to the Chapel at 7-2414.
Suicide Prevention/Green Ribbon:
Need SafeTALK or ASIST Training?
safeTalk: September 18
th (0800-1100)
ASIST: September 24-25th (0800-1600)
SafeTALK and ASIST classes are held at the Chapel and begin at 0800. Uniform is appropriate civilian attire.
What is Spiritual Readiness? The strength of spirit that enables the warfighter to accomplish the mission with honor.
Are you struggling to maintain honor in every area of your life? Do you conduct your work with honor? Maintain your relationships with honor? Drive with honor? Grocery shop with honor?
Yes – we can do all things with honor, but it can be easy to fall into dishonorable patterns of life, thoughts, or actions to the point where you don’t feel like yourself anymore. I encourage you to strengthen your spiritual readiness to accomplish every mission with honor.
Need to speak with a Chaplain? Follow this link to book an appointment with Chaplain Miller:
https://outlook-dod.office365.us/bookwithme/user/cf51945e5e5a4b1a9d0d87fc140
Island County Burn Ban Type II in Effect
OUTDOOR BURNING BAN IN ISLAND COUNTY, WASHINGTON
TYPE II BURN BAN IN EFFECT AS OF 4:00 p.m., July 18, 2025
NO OUTDOOR BURNING OF NATURAL DEBRIS – EVEN WITH A PERMIT.
Burn Ban - Type II includes a ban on all outdoor burning in unincorporated Island County including a ban on recreational fires that were otherwise exempt from a Type I burn ban and including a ban on the use and discharge of consumer fireworks, unless the use and discharge of such fireworks are authorized by a permit issued by the Fire Marshal. The use of barbecue grills using propane or briquettes, or self-contained camp stoves are exempt from Type II burn bans and these items may still be used.
The danger of outdoor fires is extreme right now. Please use extreme caution with any ignition source.
PROCLAMATION and PUBLIC NOTICE
WHEREAS, by July 17, 2025, atmospheric conditions of reduced fuel moisture levels, low humidity, and warmer weather have increased the risk of fire within the confines of Island County,
THEREFORE, in concurrence with the Fire Protection Districts of Whidbey and Camano Islands and the Northwest Clean Air Agency, I, Sheriff Rick Felici, serving as the Island County Fire Marshal, do hereby proclaim a BAN on ALL outdoor burning within the entirety of Island County
Pre-Retirement Seminars Presented by the Civilian Benefits Center
The Civilian Benefits Center (CBC) is offering virtual pre-retirement seminars through October for employees covered under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Employees can attend these seminars via Microsoft (MS) Teams LIVE EVENT. Please check for updates in scheduling and/or topics at the Navy Benefits Portal
https://go.usa.gov/xt2Az; click the “Pre-Retirement Training” Quick Link. (Some customers may need to copy and paste the URL in their browser for access.)
Pool Use Partnerships
While NAS Whidbey Island does not have its own swimming facility, MWR provides subsidized access to two local pools in Oak Harbor and Anacortes. Active-duty members, their families, and Reservists are welcome to enjoy Open Swim and Lap Swim sessions at both locations. For further details, please contact 360-675-7665 for the Oak Harbor pool or 360-293-0673 for the Anacortes pool.
North Puget Sound Dragon Boat Club – Team Tsunami
North Puget Sound Team Tsunami formed in November 2013. Team Tsunami is a fun-loving and competitive team that practices on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Practices aim for a rigorous workout with a focus on improving form and technique for competitive racing. The team began racing competitively in 2014.
Team Tsunami is actively recruiting “Tillers.” A “Till” in dragon boat racing refers to the steersperson, who is responsible for controlling the boat's direction and steering using a steering oar. If you enjoy being out on the water, are looking for a fun way to stay active, need a new cross-training regime and love to compete, come check it out and be a part of Team Tsunami.
Team Coach & Team Captain - Cathie Harrison & Elena Christensen
Team Contact - Cathie Harrison
Talkspace: Mental health therapy and self-guided support
Talkspace is FREE for service members and their family members 13 years and older.
Talkspace Therapy: You will be matched with a licensed therapist based on your needs and preferences. Talkspace provides care for mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, and more. But Talkspace isn't only for people with symptoms of a mental health condition - you can use Talkspace for help with stress, relationships, parenting, grief, or whatever is on your mind. Message your Talkspace therapist 24/7 on our private platform and meet with your therapist for two live virtual session per month.
Get started with Talkspace Therapy: Visit
www.talkspace.com/usnavy and enter keyword: NASWITHERAPY
Talkspace Go: This app empowers you to take your mental health into your hands. Complete a quick online assessment of your mental, emotional, and relational health needs. Based on your responses, Talkspace Go recommends a personalized, self-guided support plan from our library of 55+ guided counseling programs. You'll be given daily journal prompts, invited to anonymous live workshops with mental health clinicians, and receive suggested interactive courses you can complete at your convenience. Download the Talkspace Go app and create an account using the keyword: NASWISELF
Support for Your Family's Health and Nutrition - WIC Can Help!
The WIC program supports military families with healthy foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding help for pregnant individuals, new moms, infants, and kids under five. If your income qualifies, WIC’s got your back! Check eligibility and apply via the USDA. www.fns.usda.gov/wic
Who is Eligible?
-Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding individuals
-Infants and children up to age five
-Families who meet income guidelines (your military income may qualify!)
What Does WIC Provide?
-Healthy foods tailored to your family's needs
-Nutrition education to help you make informed choices
-Breastfeeding support and referrals to health and social services
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NMCRS Update
NAVY-MARINE CORPS RELIEF SOCIETY – Seaplane Base, Bldg. 13, 360-257-2728
whidbeyisland@nmcrs.org
***WELCOME TO OUR NEW VISITING NURSE, BECKY HARPER! SHE JOINED OUR TEAM MONDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER. WE EXPECT HER TO START SCHEDULING IN-HOME VISITS BY 1 OCTOBER.***
***DUE TO OVERWHELMING SUPPLY, WE ARE ASKING FOR A PAUSE ON BABY BLANKETS AND WE WILL ADVERTISE WHEN WE WILL BE ACCEPTING THEM AGAIN. OUR CURRENT INVENTORY IS FAR OUTPACING THE NUMBER OF CLIENTS WHO RECEIVE THEM.***
***NEXT THRIFT STORE SATURDAY SHOPPING OPPORTUNITY IS 13 SEPT 1000-1300***
THRIFT STORE – Our Thrift Store is open for Active Duty, their dependents and retirees – 100% volunteer staff.
SHOPPING: Tues 1000-1600, Thurs 1000-1800. Sat 1000-1300: 13 Sep, 27 Sep, 18 Oct, 15 Nov
DONATIONS: Thursdays 1000-1730.
UNIFORM SHOP - Active Duty - Mon-Fri. 0800-1600
Uniform donation box located in Nor’Wester/FFSC lobby or donate at the Thrift Shop.
VOLUNTEERING – Flexible times! Weekdays: anytime from 0800-1600 (extended hours on Thurs 0800-1815) and
select Saturdays (0930-1315)!
Thrift Shop - Stop by or Signup at:
https://volunteersignup.org/J4H7M (copy/paste it into your web browser). Whether you have 30 minutes or a few hours – it all helps! All volunteer hours count towards your Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM).
Office Volunteer options: Call or email for more info.
FINANCIAL/EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE - 0% Interest Loans and Grants
0800-1600 MON-FRI
Emergency Travel, Rent/Deposits/Food, Utilities, Phone, Car Repairs, Payments & Insurance, Pay/ PCS issues,
Dental and more. Free/Confidential. Budgeting Assistance.
BUDGET 4 BABY CLASS (B4B) – New baby or expecting a baby? $50 Amazon e-card for attending our one-hour class!
Sign up by calling 257-2728 or email:
whidbeyisland@nmcrs.org
CLASS DATES (ALL CLASSES ARE IN SEAT):
Upcoming classes:
1000-1100: 8 Oct, 5 Nov
1730-1830: 25 Sep, 23 Oct, 20 Nov
- We can come to your command if you have multiple service members interested.
- One-on-one classes can be scheduled if time is limited due to deployment, pcs, etc.
VISITING NURSE – ***Welcome aboard to our Visiting Nurse Becky Harper! She joined our team on Monday, 8 September. We expect her to start scheduling in-home visits by 1 October.***
Foreign National Installation Access.
Foreign National Access Procedures to NAS Whidbey Island.
Active duty and DoD civilian personnel are not authorized to escort foreign nationals onto the installation without prior screening. As directed by USNAVNORTH, all foreign national guests must be properly approved, vetted and logged in at the Visitor Control Center prior to access authorization. Please note:
Sponsors must notify sentry if escorting foreign nationals.
All approved unofficial foreign nationals must be escorted by the sponsor and shall travel in the same vehicle.
Authorized Foreign National Visitors must carry official credentials (passport/visa/etc.) and authorized access pass with them at all times.
For any questions regarding this policy, please contact the Visitor Control Center at (360) 257-3063/5620.
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Musicians Wanted
NASWI has two community music groups located close to the base: the SeaNotes Big Band and the All-Island Community Band.
Both groups play periodically for local events. Rehearsals for both groups are weekly. The SeaNotes rehearse on Monday nights and the All-Island Community Band rehearses on Thursday nights.
Both groups are always looking for musicians!
There is also a new group being formed in Oak Harbor called the Whidbey Chamber Orchestra. They really need more string players!
If interested, please contact Steve Schwalbe at ColSchwalbe@gmail.com