Congratulations to the team at the Orcas Senior Center who were recognized for their amazing Community Service by the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce at their annual celebration. Lynnette Wood, president of the Operations Committee, spoke about the 75 volunteers who make the programs happen, providing meals on wheels, transportation, home visits, art and movement classes and so much more. The Senior Center plays an integral role in keeping people healthy and able to live on Orcas as they age. This award is so well deserved.
OPAL received welcome news from the County this week when they announced the first distribution from the real estate excise tax (REET) would good towards April’s Grove. The $850,000 award will be used to repay a bridge loan from the Washington State Housing Finance Commission for April’s Grove. The Commission made the loan so that OPAL could get under construction and not lose other funding that had been committed to the project. The project continues to be on schedule and the goal is to have folks move in at the end of Summer 2020. What a difference this will make for so many neighbors!
November 3rd is the Food for Thought dinner to support the Orcas Island Education Foundation (5-8 pm at the Orcas Center). OIEF provides support to the public schools and has been a key partner in building and maintaining a remarkable educational opportunity for all island students. Tickets are still available and can be purchased here. I hope to see you there.
Have a lovely weekend,
Hilary