The New Year is upon us, and time for a little reflection. The island’s holiday season kicked off on that first Friday in December with the lighting of the Christmas tree on the Village Green. The big crowd, including many children, enjoyed seeing the arrival of Santa & Mrs. Claus with their bag of toys (thanks to a ‘special delivery’ by the Orcas Fire Department). Everyone enjoyed baked goodies prepared by generous Chamber members, and hot apple cider. The Community Band played holiday favorites for all to enjoy. Special thanks to the members of the Community Band; Scott and Judy Whiting (and their North Pole alter egos); Ron Gilleland and Perry Pugh (tree lighting experts); and toy makers George Garrels and Orcas Kiwanis (whose toys are true classics).

The Chamber kicked off local holiday shopping via its “Shop the Rock” promotion. We not only encouraged island residents to begin their holiday gift buying on that first Friday, but rewarded two islanders with $100 each in a random drawing of shoppers. In 2011 the Chamber will continue to promote its “Orcas First” program, collecting information from our island businesses, and sharing with the community the power they hold when deciding to spend dollars locally.

On behalf of the board and staff of the chamber, we wish one and all a Happy New Year.

Lance Evans

Chamber Exec. Director