Parade is July 4 weekend highlight

Parade is July 4 weekend highlight

Everybody loves a parade, Orcas Island is no exception. Sponsored by the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce, the 2004 Orcas Island community parade will kick off at noon on Saturday, July 3, with a surprise salute from the skies. High school students Jenole Peacock and Kelly Baker will sing the National Anthem. Theme for this year’s parade is "Three Cheers for Our Volunteers," celebrating community spirit on Orcas Island. Applications are still being accepted, and can be picked up at the Chamber, Orcas Online and the Orcas Island Historical Museum.

Taking the lead this year as Grand Marshal is a quiet part-time local, Bob Rivers. While off-island, Rivers can be found most mornings at 102.5 FM on the radio dial hosting "Twisted Radio" on KZOK.

Watch for local favorite volunteers in the line-up as well.

Enjoy the displays, produce and food available on the village green. Celebrate the grand opening of the new Visitor Information Office of the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce, in the post office building, and pick up a free krispy kreme donut on parade day while supplies last.

Mark your calendar for the other events on Orcas Island July 4th weekend. Start with Festival Friday July 2 at Rosario. On Saturday, catch the parade on the way back from the pancake breakfast at the fire station, and pass the time until the start of the Lions Club Salmon Dinner. Head out to Deer Harbor for the fireworks on Saturday night. Round out your weekend in Eastsound on the 4th, where the community band will be playing in the waterfront park just prior to the fireworks show at dusk. Contributions for the fireworks are gladly accepted. Feed the fireworks cans located by cash registers throughout the island, or contact the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce at 376-2273 for more information.