— from Emily Reed Geyman —
The Olga Artworks Building is a unique part of the art community of Orcas and of all the San Juan Islands. The tragic fire created major financial concerns and a shortfall of more than $100,000 required to build a cafe approved by the health department, the expense of which was not in the original plans. Restoring the building to its historical significance as well as meeting current health and safety standards is a major endeavor very deserving of community support.
Completing the Artworks building will result in major benefits to the economy of Orcas Island as well as to its artists and offer delight to Orcas islanders and visitors including those from other islands like myself. The cafe is an essential aspect of the Artworks being a destination that enables individuals to savor brunch/lunch and spend a morning or an afternoon at Artworks to experience island history and view the outstanding and diverse work of Orcas artists.
The Olga Strawberry Council is in a “Grand Push to Complete” the Artworks Building with a target date of February 28. It is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and donations can be made at: www.olgastrawberrycouncil.org.
