Currency and circulation

Sounds business-like, doesn’t it? Much more important than kibbitzing with and borrowing from the neighbors.
But business and commerce on Orcas Island has that personal touch that gives accountability, value and service to all our transactions.
This weekend, beginning today, is looming up to be a festival, a flurry, of circulating and exchange on Orcas Island. From craft displays to Christmas shopping to Hannukah celebrations, to Open Houses and entertaining programs, just poking around this weekend is going to be lots of fun.
The PTSA Book Fair runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today and tomorrow at the school library. Books, kits, and scientific tools are just some of the items available to expand curiosity and knowledge — and the Book Fair is open to all.
The Eastsound Planning Review Committee, the closest thing to a Town Hall or Municipal Council on Orcas, holds its monthly meeting from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. Their Open House will be this Monday at 5 p.m. and I always get the Fire Station and the Senior Center mixed up for these kind of meetings, but you can call the Fire Station at 2331 to check. But do look into the Open House to see what plans are afoot for the development of Eastsound.
Tomorrow, the Chamber of Commerce tree lighting at Eastsound Village Green starts at 4:45 p.m. From there fan out to “Shop the Rock” as Eastsound businesses offer specials until 7 p.m.
Island quilters will hold an opening reception for their work at the Orcas Center at 5:30 p.m. The lobby and Madrona room are blanketing with these stunning works of beauty and order, made by our own neighbors. The quilts will be on display through the month of December.
The Olga Symphony plays Orcas Center on Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. and if you put it out to the universe, you may be able to score a ticket, although both evenings are officially sold out.
Saturday, scarf down your cornflakes and treat yourself to a day of hobnobbing. The Artisans’ Faire takes place at the Oddfellows, beginning at 10 a.m. It runs through Sunday until 4 p.m. and benefits the Artists in the School Program.
The American Legion Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar, which benefits their scholarship program and hospitalized veterans, takes place at the legion hall near the “tank corner.” As well as local artists and craftsfolk, the bazaar features hearty soups for when your cornflakes wear off.
The Friends of the Library Holiday Tea runs from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Orcas Island Library on Rose Street, with goodies and musicians at this community center.
The Actors Theater of Orcas Island presents an evening of improvisational (spontaneous) theater at 7:30 at the Grange on Saturday night.
And plan to attend the Historical Museum Dinner on Monday evening, beginning at 5 p.m. This is a great event, located in the woods of Camp Orkila, with their fabulous prime rib, salmon and vegetarian buffet dinner, seating at tables with island newcomers and old-timers alike. Call to make reservations at 376-4849.
Entertainment following the dinner will be “Orcas Moments” featuring John Gorton and Anita Orne’s retrospective of historic island parades, salmon derbies, and community endeavors. “Island Spirit” didn’t just spring up overnight, and whether you’re being introduced to island history for the first time, or reliving treasured memories, you’re sure to be entertained by the program.