Last Saturday, islanders of all ages flocked to two events: Vashon Island Fire & Rescue’s annual open house at its newly renovated Station 55 and the 16th annual CiderFest, presented by Vashon-Maury Chamber of Commerce at Vashon Village.
The fire station open house gave islanders a chance to meet Vashon’s new fire chief, Bill McLaughlin, munch on hot dogs and snacks, check out the station’s new Mobile Integrated Health exam room, watch a Tesla extrication demo and play preparedness games with representatives of VashonBePrepared. Wide-eyed kids also got the chance to take aim with fire hoses, jump in a big bouncy house and have their faces painted.
Chief McLaughlin described the open house as a great success.
“I was impressed at the number of residents who turned out to see what we do,” McLaughlin said. “It was a great opportunity for me to meet many islanders and answer their questions about the fire department programs. And it was great to see all the kids enjoying touring the fire engines, playing in the bouncy house and watching a car get cut up with the jaws of life.”
Meanwhile, CiderFest also drew a big crowd, filling Vashon Village with the unmistakable sights, sounds and tastes of fall.
From the lively cider tasting and local music to family-friendly activities, local food and fresh-pressed apple juice, the day showcased the best of island life including community, creativity and collaboration, said Chamber board member Cheryl Lubbert.
“Through longstanding partnerships with the Vashon Island Growers Association and the Vashon Fruit Club, Vashon’s CiderFest continues to connect our island’s agricultural past with its vibrant present,” Lubbert said. “It beautifully reflects the Chamber’s mission to create opportunities for local businesses to thrive while bringing our community together.”
Organizers Cheryl Lubbert and Haley Hills-Pinzon were all smiles at CiderFest. (Wade Yip Photo)
Kids, helped out by local firefighters, got a chance to take aim with powerful fire hoses at VIFR’s open house. (Wade Yip Photo)
A grower from Shoreline prepared apples for pressing at CiderFest. (Abby Antonelis Photo)
CiderFest drew a bustling crowd to Vashon Village. (Nichole Banducci Photo)
At VIFR’s open house, local photographer Jim Diers captured the joy on his grandson’s face as he sat in the driver’s seat of a fire truck. (Jim Diers Photo)
