Possible Upgrade to Grange Hall Kitchen

Members of San Juan Island Grange #966 voted unanimously this month to upgrade the kitchen in their building on First Street to full commercial status and pledged $40,000 from their reserves for the project, provided the membership can raise a like amount.

Two Grange members have each pledged $10,000 to kick off the campaign, and member Larry Soll has volunteered to lead the effort to raise the additional funds.

He anticipates a number of benefits to the community – It will make possible the production of value-added products that can be sold at the farmer’s market or other retail outlets, or donated to the food bank. Caterers will be able to prepare food at the Grange to be served there.

He suggests that island chefs could prepare and serve affordable dinners; both “farm to table” and ethnic meals would be encouraged.

A number of individuals have expressed interest in teaching short courses on such topics as bread making, food preservation, pickling, and ethnic food preparation.

In addition, the American Red Cross has designated the Grange as an emergency shelter in case of natural disaster. The commercial range will be fueled by propane, ensuring the ability to act even in an electrical outage.

The plan is for construction to take place in January through March 2020. Contributions may be made now, or pledges may be made for the month of January.

Checks or pledges should be sent to San Juan Island Grange #966, PO Box 2013, Friday Harbor. Please include your email address and phone number and specify if you wish to keep your gift (or the specific amount) confidential. The Grange is a registered 501©(8) non-profit organization.

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