I’m Quincy Dashevsky, and I’ve called Orcas Island home for the past 11 years. I’m a mother of three, a farmer, herbalist, birth-worker, food lover, and food-systems enthusiast. 

My work and life have given me a deep appreciation for the people, farms, food, and small businesses that make our island community so special. I care a lot about local food systems, supporting farmers and producers, and keeping our community connected to the food that nourishes us.

I’m excited about the opportunity to serve on the Co-op Board because I believe our Co-op is an important part of the fabric of Orcas. I would bring a practical, community-minded perspective, along with a genuine love for this island and the people who call it home.

Hato caakiwiyeefa, hello everybody, my name is Bailey Quishenberry. I am a long time resident of Orcas Island, an artist, a language teacher for the Shawnee Tribe, a beginning farmer, an employee at Island Thyme, and a founding member of the charitable organization 8 Hands Press. I am also currently on the board of the San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild.

I am interested in being on this board because I love our co-op and see how it cares for Islanders, myself included, and I want to be able to give back. Working at the co-op was one of my first jobs on the island, and it truly provided an incredible amount of support for me as an employee during the pandemic as well as to all the vulnerable members of our community.

The five goals of the Orcas Food Coop are all important to me, with equitable access and local food being specifically near and dear to my heart. I believe I would be able to contribute unique experience and perspective in the work that the co-op does and provide support as more of the co-op’s goals are achieved.

In my work with my tribe as a language teacher I also work and interface with the folks who are integral to safeguarding our seeds and our food sovereignty. My language and history is deeply rooted in our shared relationship with the foods that have shaped us and been shaped by us.

You may have seen 8 Hands Press printing on the green. So far we have been able to raise almost 7k in funds that were donated both locally and internationally. During this work I have learned a lot about cooperative envisioning and creation to achieve goals, and had the opportunity to talk to many islanders about what weighs on their hearts most.

Thank you so much for reading this and taking time to consider me as a board member. I am hopeful that this will be a good fit. Thank you so much for this opportunity!

Niyaawe,

Bailey

My name is Chuck Fisher and I am seeking Board Membership on the Orcas Island Food Co-op Board of Directors

We have owned our home on Orcas for the past eight years but have only lived on Island for the past two years. Prior to my retirement I lived in Danville, CA and owned an Oakland, CA based construction company. Before the construction phase of my career I was an Executive Chef with hotel, restaurant and private corporate jet endeavors. Most recently last year I assisted the Harbor bar and Grill in Rosario with menu  creation, development and staff  training.

What I feel makes me qualified for this position?

*Extensive food and beverage background

*Worked with food and housing charities in a management position such

As Christmas in April and Rebuilding together in the Bay Area

*Served as Board President for my 162 member HOA for 20 years.

I feel that my background as well as a commitment to bringing great food and food products to the island would be an asset to both the Co-op and the community

Thanks

Chuck Fisher

Having served on the Board of Directors at Breitenbush Hot Springs and on the Board of the Breitenbush Fire Department, I’m ready to share my experience by being of service to our Food Coop.

My focus is on ensuring continued abundant availability for all of our members as well as all guests. Working with the local farmers is a blessing. Living on a fixed income I want to see the benefits for low income families continue and possibly expand so that we have a functioning business with a big enough heart to feed all who are hungry.

It would be my honor to serve my community

Generally, there are eight board meetings per year (two per quarter) on the fourth Thursday of the meeting months, typically from 6-8 pm. Co-op Member-Owners are welcome to join us to observe and comment during the member comment period.

Please email board@orcasfood.coop if you are interested in attending a meeting so we can provide details and plan space accordingly.

More information about the Co-op’s election process, membership, and governance can be found in the Co-op’s Bylaws HERE