Chamber of Commerce Community Parade: Celebrating ‘Retro Orcas’

Saturday, July 7, Noon

— from Lance Evans for Orcas Chamber of Commerce —

“Retro Orcas” is the theme for the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Parade, scheduled for Saturday, July 7 in Eastsound. “The Chamber Board wanted to have a theme that lets all islanders enjoy the history of Orcas Island, and we hope islanders will celebrate with us by taking part and watching the parade,” said Colleen Smith Armstrong, Chamber Board President.

The Chamber is pleased to announce that islander Betty Hall will serve as Grand Marshal of the Community Parade. Betty and her family have long ties to the history of Orcas Island, including ancestral ties to Louis and Mary Ann Cayou, who settled here in the 1850’s. Many consider them to be the first permanent settlers of Orcas Island. Betty, who grew up in the Deer Harbor area of the island, recalls a childhood filled with boating, swimming and fishing. She married Robert Hall in 1958, and their two children – Donna and Dave – are residents of Orcas Island. Betty worked for 26 ½ years at the Eastsound Post Office … and for the past 18 years she has been earning a little “gas money” in her part-time position at Island Hardware & Supply.

“We encourage participation in the parade,” notes Lance Evans, Chamber Executive Director, “and we particularly hope a wide range of residents & visitors take part this year.” The Chamber of Commerce – with the sponsorship of Island Market – is offering a $100 cash prize and two $50 Island Market gift certificates for the top three entries that most uniquely capture the theme of the parade. Visitors and residents alike are invited to enjoy the parade on North Beach Road and Main Street in Eastsound starting at 12 noon on Saturday, July 7.

Parade entry forms are available at the Chamber office, and on the Chamber website. Parade entry fees are $25 (non-profit & community organizations) and $35 (businesses) per group, regardless of number of people. 100% of this fee will go towards the fireworks display in Eastsound on Wednesday, July 4. The deadline to submit entries for the parade is Friday, June 29. The familiar fireworks donation containers are located at Island Market, and spare change (or more) is appreciated to help pay for the fireworks. Tax-deductible contributions to the fireworks show can be made through the Orcas Island Community Foundation. Visit www.OICF.us or call them at 360-376-6423.

For more information about the parade or fireworks, contact the Chamber office at 376-2273 or email info@orcasislandchamber.com.