Orcas Island’s Harvey Family Parade Grand Marshals

Chamber of Commerce Honors ‘Neighbors Helping Neighbors’ in Community Parade

— from Lance Evans —

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors” is the theme for the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Parade, scheduled for Saturday, July 5 in Eastsound. “One of the things that makes island living exceptional is our powerful sense of community — every time we help each other as individuals, we grow stronger as a whole,” said Susan Gudgell, Chamber Board President.

The Chamber is pleased to announce that the Harvey Family (Russ & Rita, and children Rich, Rob, Ryan, Rachel, Ray and Renae; along with Mom/Grandma Francis Harvey) will all serve as Grand Marshals of the Community Parade. Russ has been an islander for over 50 years, and met wife Rita when she visited the island in the mid 1970s. They married in 1979, and soon they became known as a family that got things done. Francis has led the way as a tutor and educator of island children for over 30 years. Russ has been serving San Juan County as an employee in the Public Works Department since 1981, and together they have contributed to our county in myriad ways. They provided daycare and foster care for over twenty years; Rita served as a 911 dispatch operator (from home) and continues her service today as a long-time volunteer EMT/FF Captain with Orcas Fire & Rescue. All six children have found a niche in giving back to the community, including coaching local sports teams, volunteering in emergency services and working in Public Safety. As Rita points out, “If there’s a need in the community don’t sit back and complain about it…..make something happen.”

“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 11 am on Saturday, July 5.

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 Friday, July 4. The deadline to submit entries for the parade is Saturday, June 28. The familiar fireworks donation containers are located at Island Market, 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.