There were so many great vehicles spread across the tarmac at the Orcas Airport on June 18 for Truck-A-Palooza, an Orcas Family Health Center fundraising event!

Even though the day was damp there were smiles everywhere, as kids and adults alike climbed all over them and honked horns. What a great time for a first event! I think the adults had as much fun, or even more fun, than the kids. I heard from many parents that this was the best thing ever to bring their kids to. We had a head count of 114 participants, including Phil Beddar Bear who spent time with the kids and even rode the people lifter.

There were 14 contributors and approximately 19 vehicle entries – one spontaneous contributor drove by, saw us, and said “Hey! You don’t have a motorcycle! Do you want one?” (Merci, Bob V.)

I want to thank everyone who contributed, especially airport manager Bea vonTobel for the space. Thank you Greg (Archipelago Surveying), Andy Nigretto, Gary and Mark (Chappy’s Septic), Justin (Terra Firma), Jodi and Joyce (Orcas Island School), Eric and Amber (San Juan Insurance), Robin Watson, Raymond (San Juan Co. Sherriff’s Dept), Dylan (Orcas Fire Dept.), Dale (Island Excavating), Steve (Orcas Rental and Saw), Uzek (Orcas Towing), Jay and Derek (San Juan Sanitation), Bob (Crown K Ranch), Megan and Nicole (Viking Rugby Team), Courtney Ray, and the staff and board members of Orcas Family Health Center.

I realize it was a very busy solstice celebration day with plenty to do. Volunteering to help raise money for those who can’t afford medical care is an honorable way to spend your time. This is another demonstration of how the members of our community go out of their way to get together and make great things happen.  It reminds me of one of my favorite Margaret Mead quotes: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

I myself woke up feeling grouchy that morning, but as my feet started moving across the tarmac to set up tables and thank the cute port-a-potty guy, I became excited and my grouchiness faded away.

Thanks most to Shelly Rankin. She’s brilliant, and this could not have happened without her. I can’t wait to see who brings what next year!

Aaimee Johnson

Orcas Family Health Center