Maureen and I thank you for welcoming the many guests who came to the island for our annual Doe Bay Fest earlier this month. We apologize for any impacts on ferry schedules, traffic or other areas. We work really hard to anticipate issues and to prevent problems; to mitigate impacts and to create a magical experience. One of the many comments we hear from our guests is that the people on Orcas are the friendliest they have encountered. Of course, we also hear about how lucky we are to live in such a paradise. Agreed.

The high point of the festival for me was the special toast we had from the main stage on Saturday afternoon. We provided the champagne, and I got the opportunity to toast our neighbors and especially one neighbor in particular, Robin DiGeorgio. She sadly died shortly before Doe Bay Fest at age 73, and we toasted her with 73 glasses of champagne raised in her honor. Robin was a big supporter of Doe Bay Fest. Her field is one of the most sought-after spots for people to stay during the Doe Bay Fest weekend. She always wrote a personal letter welcoming each of the guests in her field. It was poignant to include that letter this year to the guests she invited to camp in her field. She was feisty and sweet. We will miss her.

Doe Bay Fest is a unique event, thanks in part to the incredible surroundings and island hospitality. If you are at the Doe Bay Café, please introduce yourself to me or Maureen and let us thank you in person for your understanding and accommodation.

Joe and Maureen Brotherton

Owners, Doe Bay Resort