I’m writing in support of funding the Orcas Island Parks and Recreation District. I am a long-time soccer coach and have seen the many-fold benefits of soccer as a sport and of team participation. I also believe in the whole-child development opportunities that come from Orcas Rec’s mix of sports, arts, music, theatre and exploration.

The soccer program, Whale of a Show and many other Orcas Rec offerings give kids a chance to be seen, appreciated and celebrated — by coaches, parents, peers and the community. It gives them a sense of belonging — and a connection to mentors in the community. One of the most basic things we can do in support of our community is to give of our time and presence. If you don’t have a way to connect with children in our community, or you can’t give of your time, please support the people who do. The Orcas Rec programs not only give our children the chance to grow and develop physically, but they give our kids the chance to be seen and recognized in significant ways. And, if any of these kids are like me, they will be inspired by their coaches and mentors to pass it on. When adults give kids that kind of focused attention — whether through sports or art or just listening well — it makes a difference way beyond the moment and can influence the way those kids go on to make their own lives, the kind of communities they will build with their confidence and leadership.

I am also encouraged by the prospect of the Parks and Rec District taking on Buck Park — the epicenter of so many family and recreational activities. From the soccer and baseball fields to the tennis courts and world-renown skate-park, it has the potential to be a gem in our community but is currently the neglected and shabby Cinderella of Orcas Island. It needs more attention, funding and maintenance in order to be a safe and sustainable recreational asset.

The tax district is an elegant and tested solution. Let’s step up and provide the appropriate public funding so the staff can continue its good work of running quality programs and our children can thrive.

Suzanne Olson

EastsoundVote yes for Parks and Rec District levy

I’m writing in support of funding the Orcas Island Parks and Recreation District. I am a long-time soccer coach and have seen the many-fold benefits of soccer as a sport and of team participation. I also believe in the whole-child development opportunities that come from Orcas Rec’s mix of sports, arts, music, theatre and exploration.

The soccer program, Whale of a Show and many other Orcas Rec offerings give kids a chance to be seen, appreciated and celebrated — by coaches, parents, peers and the community. It gives them a sense of belonging — and a connection to mentors in the community. One of the most basic things we can do in support of our community is to give of our time and presence. If you don’t have a way to connect with children in our community, or you can’t give of your time, please support the people who do. The Orcas Rec programs not only give our children the chance to grow and develop physically, but they give our kids the chance to be seen and recognized in significant ways. And, if any of these kids are like me, they will be inspired by their coaches and mentors to pass it on. When adults give kids that kind of focused attention — whether through sports or art or just listening well — it makes a difference way beyond the moment and can influence the way those kids go on to make their own lives, the kind of communities they will build with their confidence and leadership.

I am also encouraged by the prospect of the Parks and Rec District taking on Buck Park — the epicenter of so many family and recreational activities. From the soccer and baseball fields to the tennis courts and world-renown skate-park, it has the potential to be a gem in our community but is currently the neglected and shabby Cinderella of Orcas Island. It needs more attention, funding and maintenance in order to be a safe and sustainable recreational asset.

The tax district is an elegant and tested solution. Let’s step up and provide the appropriate public funding so the staff can continue its good work of running quality programs and our children can thrive.

Suzanne Olson

Eastsound