A community-wide effort is underway to rally in Olympia on Wednesday, Feb. 18 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to fight for the preservation of WSF funding.

Arrangements are being made for a bus, van, and SUV to travel from Orcas to Olympia for the big day. Lance Evans at the Orcas Chamber has offered to look into bus travel, as that will be the most efficient way to transport large numbers of participants. Organizers are looking to the business and private sectors to help sponsor this volunteer effort.

“Sign yourself, or someone you love, up so that we can have a strong showing at the rally in Olympia. There is power in large numbers and we will join forces with about 900 participants from our islanders to the south: Vashon, Bainbridge, and Bremerton. We are hoping for a turnout of at least 300 participants from the San Juans, including Orcas, Lopez, Shaw and San Juan Island. So spread the word far and wide,” said event coordinator Bernadette Vinson.

To reserve a spot, email Vinson at bernadettev@centurytel.net or call her at 376-8232. They are planning for a 7 a.m. departure and a 5:45 p.m. return ferry trip. It is advised to bring a lunch and snacks and make a sign to wave at the rally.

To sign the online petition about WSF, visit http://www.petitiononline.com/mod_perl/signed.cgi?plancfcp&501