By Darrell Kirk

Staff reporter

Under fair skies and calm, cool weather, the Orcas Island Rowing Association welcomed the new year with its annual Polar Bear Plunge at Cascade Lake on Jan. 1. Participants braved the chilly waters while reflecting on the past year’s accomplishments and sharing their hopes for the year ahead.

Among the hardy plungers was 83-year-old Bruce Benton, who celebrated a banner year for sustainable transportation on the island.

“I wanted to get 40 level 2 [Electric Vehicle] chargers around the island this year, and we did it,” Benton said proudly.

Looking ahead to 2026, Benton isn’t slowing down. He recently purchased three Chevy Equinox electric vehicles in Seattle and is expanding the island’s car-share program to five cars.

“I want to have one of them available in Deer Harbor so that Waldron Island residents can come over and have transportation from Deer Harbor to East Sound, free transportation,” he explained.

Washington State University student Penny Mills, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English and criminal justice, described her 2025 as “very productive,” highlighting her achievement of “making straight A’s in school.” With about a year left until graduation, Mills is optimistic about 2026.

“I look forward to seeing what opportunities present themselves, and see where I can best apply my skills,” she said, adding that she wants to “see how I can use my powers for good.” Mill’s 8-year-old daughter, Silvya, was the youngest participant at the event.

Twenty-year Orcas resident Nancy Schafer acknowledged the challenges of 2025, calling it “pretty intense.” However, she remained hopeful.

“Even if we can’t make changes in the big picture, in our community, we can make a lot of great changes,” Schafer said.

The event once again demonstrated the Orcas Island community’s resilience and optimism as neighbors gathered to celebrate new beginnings.