This week marks the end of Judy Scott’s tenure as OICF Board Chair. Judy helped steer the organization through the pandemic and oversaw the Community Emergency Response effort.
She has been a remarkable advocate for this organization and for the many nonprofits serving Orcas. I am grateful for her skilled leadership and delighted that she will continue to serve on the OICF Board as Grants Committee Chair.
We welcome Angela Foster as the incoming Chair. Angela has served on the board for several years and brings a keen understanding of grantmaking from her years with the Ploughshares Fund and from her time as OICF Grants Committee Chair. I feel very fortunate to have her take the lead for the coming year.
The Solstice Parade organizers are inviting all who are interested in participating in the parade Saturday to come to the Village Green Friday between 5 and 6 if you would like help making a costume. They will have supplies on hand. For those of you who would rather cheer on the paraders, the festivities start at Noon Saturday and wind through town ending up with dancing on the Village Green Stage.
The Chamber of Commerce is busily preparing for a grand Fourth of July Celebration with festivities on the Green all day on the 4th capped off with fireworks over Eastsound. If you are interested in contributing to support the fireworks display, you can do so directly here. The Community Fourth of July Parade will be on Saturday, July 1st. This year’s Grand Marshal’s are Lance Evans and Janet Brownell. Lance and Janet have done so much for this community and it will be great to celebrate their good deeds.
Finally, Orcas lost a remarkable friend, neighbor, coach, and mentor this week with the death of Jim Passer. Jim has run the Lower Tavern for many years and also volunteered as a softball and baseball coach. He was compassionate, gracious, and could melt butter with that smile. He touched so many lives and is greatly missed.
Sometimes, life is just too short.
Stay well-
Hilary