Ride the ferry authorities

Ferries will dominate discussion at Wednesday’s Island County Economic Development Council annual member meeting.

Paula Hammond, the state Secretary of Transportation, and David Moselely assistant secretary of the state Department of Transportation’s Ferries Division, will be the guest speakers at the meeting being held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Coupeville Rec Hall located at 901 NW Alexander St.

Aside from EDC business, the meeting should generate interesting information about the recent ferry problems adversely affecting Whidbey Island and the entire area.

The catered luncheon will cost $20 with two entree choices: four cheese lasagna or chicken penne pasta. Meals for those with special dietary needs are available upon request. Call 678-6889 to RSVP.

Learn to swim with Lions

With the sun finally shining, thoughts will soon turn to swimming and the Coupeville Lions Club is ready to make sure island kids know how to tread water.

Registration for the Coupeville Lions Club Learn to Swim Program will be held Thursday, May 22, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Coupeville Methodist Church, 608 N. Main St.. The lessons will run for eight day from June 23 to 27, and June 30 to July 2. These Red Cross certified lessons are 30 minutes each and will be scheduled from 9 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. Cost is $25 per child, due at registration.

Register by phone at 678-6782 beginning May 23, but priority is given to those registering in person. Or visit www.coupevillelions.orb.

Parade time

in Coupeville

It’s almost time for the Coupeville Memorial Day Parade which takes place Saturday, May 24.

For 30 years, this historic parade has showcased the best of island civic pride and support of veterans, past, present and future.

This year’s parade features a U.S. Navy jet flyover, a performance by the Navy Northwest Band, vintage cars, tractors and fire trucks. The Remembrance Ceremony in Town Park after the parade features inspiring speakers, including the commanding officer of Whidbey Island Naval Air Station and special guests are World War II Pearl Harbor survivors. Free hot dogs and sodas will be served courtesy of Prairie Center Red Apple. Bring your kids, dogs and patriotic pride.

The parade starts on South Main at 11 a.m. and ends in Town Park. For more information, contact the Central Whidbey Chamber of Commerce at 678-5434 or e-mail director@centralwhidbeycham

ber.com.