I would like to thank Orcas Island Fire and Rescue for hosting the dedication of our beautiful new Deer Harbor Fire Station on Sept. 11. The ceremony also included a remembrance in honor of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, DC.

The new station, on Channel Road at the head of Cayou Valley Road, serves a large population that according to recent statistics represents the second greatest fire response need on the island.  It will provide increased protection for our homes by housing an ambulance, water tender, and WASP unit for wildland protection.  The station is completely self-contained, which is particularly important because our community is connected to the rest of Orcas Island by only one road that could easily be blocked off in a disaster.  In the future it will have overnight firefighter capacity, when warranted. The building is also a visual asset to Deer Harbor, with a design that complements the architectural vernacular of the island.

The plan for the fire station took many years to reach fruition, and included considerable community input. Special recognition should be given to Chief Harris and the Fire Commissioners for their dedication and hard work, Clyde Duke for donating the labor for the roof and Dwight Guss for work far beyond the duties of a project manager.

Thank you for a job well done.

Karen Parsons

Deer Harbor