Join the Parade to ‘Celebrate the Arts’ with Orcas Chamber

Orcas Artists Frank & Jan Loudin To Be Grand Marshals at July 2 Parade

By Lance Evans, Executive Director, Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce

“Celebrate the Arts” is the theme for the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Parade scheduled for Saturday, July 2 in Eastsound. “Not a day goes by that islanders aren’t somehow touched by the artistic beauty of Orcas Island.  While we normally think of the visual, literary, and performing arts, the parade is celebrating the arts in the widest sense possible. Orcas residents have made this place a welcoming home to these creative pursuits, and it’s hard to think of a more perfect moment for all of us to ‘celebrate the arts’ than our Community Parade, said Lance Evans, Chamber Executive Director.

The Chamber is thrilled to announce that Frank and Jan Loudin will serve as Grand Marshals of the Community Parade.  The Loudin’s are celebrating over 40 years as islanders … 21 years on California’s Catalina and 21 on Orcas Island (and happily married for 52 years!)  A Fine Arts graduate of the University of Colorado, Frank’s multi-faceted artistic career has included commercial architectural renderings, and painting styles ranging from ‘Americana’ to ‘Northwest Nature’ – and even a little ‘Fantasy’ thrown in for good measure.  Jan’s artistic leanings are more literary, as a published children’s book author (The Witch & the ‘Roo of Wicky Woo), and writer of poetry.  “Frank and Jan have a valued presence in our community, with Frank’s art an integral part of the Orcas landscape,” noted Chamber President Michell Marshall.  “Not only is his art seen in both local and regional galleries, and about town, but Frank’s work has supported various non-profits, including the Chamber Music Festival, Library Fair, Food Bank, Senior Center, and, of course, the Orcas Fly-In.  We are pleased to recognize Frank and Jan as true ‘Orcas Island Artists,’ and dedicate this parade to them for their collective efforts to ‘celebrate the arts’ on our amazing island.”

“Participation in the parade is open to any Orcas group,” said Evans, “and we particularly hope that the parade attracts a wide range of art-loving residents this year.  The theme is all-inclusive, honoring the creative types who make this island so unique.”  The Chamber of Commerce is once again offering a $100 gift certificate for the entry that most uniquely captures 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 11 am on Saturday, July 2.

Parade entry forms are available at the Chamber office, on the Chamber website, and at The Office Cupboard.   “As the Chamber did last year,” said Evans, “we are asking for a $10 entry fee (per group regardless of number of people). 100% of this fee will go towards the fireworks display in Eastsound on Tuesday, July 4.”  The entry deadline for the parade is Saturday, June 25.

Also, the familiar fireworks donation containers will be located at various island merchants, and spare change (or more) is appreciated to help pay for the fireworks.

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