For the Orcas Chamber of Commerce, things are just starting to heat up.
More foot traffic is walking through the door, visitors are calling for help with accommodations, and July 4 is a month away.
The chamber organizes Eastsound’s July 4 activities, including the parade and fireworks. Traditionally, the show has been launched from Indian Island, which is owned by the Bureau of Land Management. Last year, BLM informed the chamber that they could not set off fireworks from the island because of environmental concerns.
Chamber Executive Director Lance Evans asked the owner of the barge used for fireworks in Deer Harbor if it could also be rented for the Eastsound show. The owner agreed, but later sold the barge to someone on the mainland. Evans has been in negotiations with the new owner and just got approval for its use. The cost will be around $1,000.
“We applied for the recent round of Orcas Island Community Foundation grants, and we were approved but not funded,” Evans said. “So it is open for anyone to provide partial or full funding.”
This year’s parade and fireworks will be on the same day: July 4. Dave and Linda McPeake are the Grand Marshals and the theme is “Orcas Grown.” It is limited to 60 entries this year because of space considerations. Entry forms are available at the chamber office and website.
The chamber’s 2009 Orcas map and guide was released in early May. It is available at businesses throughout town, on the inter-island ferry routes, and on the chamber’s website, www.orcasislandchamber.com.
The organization has also been offering monthly “Business Essentials” workshops on such topics as customer service and social media.
“We try to provide relevant presentations for businesses,” Evans said. “We get about 20 businesses per workshop, and for our size, that is a good total.”
As part of its service to members, the chamber sends out a weekly “Blast” email to more than 800 local and off-island residents. It’s a listing of business specials, promotions, and events.
The chamber encourages more businesses and local groups to be a part of its 350-member organization.
“We’re embarking on outreach to get more members signed up,” Evans said. “We’re enthusiastic and it’s a great time to join.”
Dues are $25 for an individual, $50 for a non-profit, and $125 for a business. Membership includes a listing on the chamber’s website, a blurb in the Blast, and referrals from the chamber.
Orcas Chamber has not taken a stance on the controversial street vending ordinance debate. The council is discussing adopting an ordinance that would either ban street vendors or require a permit to set up on a sidewalk.
“It’s a touchy issue,” Evans said. “We are not in favor of over-regulation, but it’s also not fair for business owners who pay rent all year. We have not taken an official position. Instead, we keep the membership apprised of developments and encourage them to contact the council with feedback.”
