“A Garden of Orcas Delights” is the theme for the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Parade, scheduled for Saturday, July 2 in Eastsound. “Whether one lives here, or simply visits, you can’t help but come away with a list of things that delight you,” said Susan Gudgell, Chamber Board President.

The Chamber is pleased to announce that Marlyn Myers will serve as Grand Marshal of the Community Parade. Twenty years ago, Marlyn and husband Don purchased their Orcas Island property and made the move to the island a few years later. ‘Getting things done’ could have been their mantra, as the couple worked tirelessly to construct their home. That laser focus was pleasantly interrupted by neighbor and friend, Hazel O’Brien, who convinced Marlyn to drop her hammer in favor of a trowel, and the Orcas Island Garden Club. Before long Marlyn was rising within the Club, assuming various board positions, including several years as President. Her long-time love of gardening inspired her involvement. Marlyn noted, “I wanted the Club to share information with its members and the community that was useful and helpful. Learn something you can use. What grows here … Where does our food come from … that sort of thing.” During Marlyn’s time with the Club she saw membership grow three-fold, with more men joining, and is proud to give back to the community via its successful yearly Garden Tour. Marlyn notes that this year the school’s Farm-to-Cafeteria program will be a beneficiary of the tour.

“We encourage participation in the parade,” said Lance Evans, Chamber Executive Director, “and we particularly hope a wide range of residents & visitors take part this year.” The Chamber of Commerce – with the sponsorship of Island Market – is offering a $100 cash prize and two $50 Island Market gift certificates for the top three entries that most uniquely capture the theme of the parade. Visitors and residents alike are invited to enjoy the parade on North Beach Road and Main Street in Eastsound starting at 12 noon on Saturday, July 2.

Parade entry forms are available at the Chamber office, and on the Chamber website. Parade entry fees are $25 (non-profit & community organizations) and $35 (businesses) per group regardless of number of people. One hundred percent of this fee will go towards the fireworks display in Eastsound on Monday, July 4. The deadline to submit entries for the parade is Friday, June 24. The familiar fireworks donation containers are located at Island Market, and spare change (or more) is appreciated to help pay for the fireworks.

For more information about the parade or fireworks, contact the chamber office at 376-2273 or email info@orcasislandchamber.com.