Lopez Village lights up

By AMANDA LEIDIG

Staff Reporter

Lopezians got their bumbershoots out last Friday, bundled up in their warm jackets and flocked to the Village where they cheered the official start of the Christmas season.

“We thought it went really good - especially considering the weather,” said Chamber Vice President and activities board member Becky Smith. In fact, it seemed the sogginess Nov. 26 evening only made the steaming hot chocolate and hot coffee that much better.

Close to 300 friends and neighbors gathered around the crackling fires, soaking up the warmth of both the flames and each other. “It was just so great to see people so willing to be together,” said Smith.

Delicious cookies and pastries lined the snack table, while Lopez Chamber of Commerce volunteers handed out canvas tote bags filled with coupons and information on local boutiques, book stores, restaurants and shops. It was the Chamber’s hope to raise awareness among community members about the benefits of shopping locally.

Resident Bill Carpenter was honored with the Grand Lopezian Award, which is given to a local business person who has made positive contributions to the community. Carpenter is the second generation owner of Lopez Village Market. His father purchased the market in 1959 when it was located in the space that is now the Enchanted Needle. In 1965 Carpenter, and his wife Bonnie, obtained ownership. The market was moved to its present location in 1969.

Carpenter has spent many hours, and years, helping the community. He served on the Catherine Washburn Medical Association board for 20 years, as well as the Lopez Island School board for 10 years.

Carpenter was applauded for his accomplishments and contributions within the community and then presented with both historical and present photos of Lopez Village Market.

At the end of the evening, Carpenter was given the honor of lighting the Village. With a simple motion, Carpenter lit Lopez Village water tower and soon the entire Village was awash in twinkling Christmas lights.

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