“Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: A Celebration of Sustainability” is the theme for the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Parade scheduled for Saturday, July 6 in Eastsound.
“Islanders appreciate the beauty of the local environment, and we all know it’s a long term project to preserve and enhance our natural surroundings. That capacity to endure, and do what you can to keep Orcas Island the gem it is is captured in this year’s parade theme,” said Lance Evans, Chamber Executive Director.
The Chamber is pleased to announce that George Post will serve as Grand Marshal of the Community Parade. George is an islander for over 30 years, and his appreciation for the beauty of the island, combined with a passion for preserving & sustaining this special place led directly to his founding of The Exchange, until a recent fire destroyed it, the island’s recycling and reuse facility.
The Orcas community and The Exchange Board of Directors are discussing plans to bring The Exchange back so that it might continue the important role it played on Orcas Island.
“Participation in the parade is open to any Orcas group,” said Evans, “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 11 am on Saturday, July 6.
Parade entry forms are available at the Chamber office, on the Chamber website, and at The Office Cupboard.
Parade entry fees are $25 (non-profit and community organizations) and $35 (businesses) per group regardless of number of people. One hundred percent of the fee will go towards the fireworks display in Eastsound on Wednesday, July 4.
The deadline to submit entries for the parade is Saturday, June 29.
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.
