Historical Museum’s Dinner Honors Volunteers

— from Carol Kulminski —

An afternoon of interesting programs and good food was enjoyed by almost 70 members of the Orcas Island Historical Society at the Senior Center on Saturday, January 26. The afternoon started with a long-time volunteer and historian, Edrie Vinson, sharing photos from the Washington Rural Heritage project about the Patos Lighthouse. She is President of the Keepers of the Patos Light and is responsible for the Patos Lighthouse exhibit currently in the museum.

Carol Kulminski, before dismissing tables for the excellent dinner prepared by Senior Center Chef Jay and dishes brought by members, asked each table to guess what the May fundraiser and auction would be this year. Ingrid Karnikis guessed it right! It will be a wedding re-enactment of Cal McLachlin’s parents in 1916 at the Orcas Center on May 11.

Highlights of events and activities of the year and a warm, positive message was given by the Executive Director, Brittney Maruska, before introducing Volunteer Awards for the year. Richard Rodgers got Volunteer of the Year for helping with Spooky Tales for 3 years, assisting at all the events, and helping wherever needed.

Ron and Mary from Village Store got the award for Business Supporter. Brittney said that not only did they make a generous contribution to the last fundraiser, but they help many people throughout the year.

The Jane-Barfoot-Hodde Historian Award went to storyteller, Antoinette Botsford, who regaled the audience with stories and with insight of how she develops them to later become Spooky Tales, the popular museum program that runs July and August.

Board members, Vice-President Peter Fisher and President Jerry Smith, gave strategic plan and financial reports that were received with much applause! Other Board members present were Bruce Culver, Treasurer, and Susan Fletcher, Secretary.

Many people went home with centerpieces created by Linda Peth that they won in a raffle.  There was a $50 gift certificate to the museum store won by Leith Templin and Tony Ayer won the coveted quilt made by Dorothy Lindquist.

The Historical Museum has a strong vision to carry into the new year, a dedicated Board of Directors and an enthusiastic and talented staff: Executive Director, Brittney Maruska, and Office Manager, Debbie Durand