25 years ago

Editor: Jim Larsen

Clinton gas station closes

“South Whidbey’s last service station becomes a part of history this week as Simmons Garage in Clinton stops selling gasoline. It was the last place that customers could receive service with a smile at the gas pumps. While the pumps were running on automatic, Simmons attendants were happy to check your car’s oil, the water in the radiator and battery, or the tire pressure. Now, it’s a do-it-yourself world.

“Owners Gordon and Shirley Simmons decided to leave the gas business for the same reason many others have in recent years – expensive new regulations to protect the environment.

“Gordon Simmons said new underground tanks were just installed seven years ago, but new regulations have taken effect to make them outdated. The trend is toward requiring double-hulled tanks with double piping. To overhaul the station to meet the latest regulations would cost $250,000, Simmons estimates.

“If I had it I wouldn’t put it in the ground, I’d put it in the bank,” he laughed.”

15 years ago

Editor: Jim Larsen

Island skies could stay quiet until Monday

“The skies over South Whidbey were quiet this week as orders from the Federal Aviation Administration grounded almost every aircraft in the nation.

“Following Tuesday’s terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, all pilots operating in the United States were ordered to keep their planes, helicopters, gliders, blimps, and balloons on the ground. The only exception to the order were military aircraft, rescue aircraft and other approved government aircraft.”