Sunny skies and warm weather graced the Friends of the Hylebos’ 26th annual picnic Wednesday evening at the West Hylebos Wetlands Park in Federal Way. According to Hylebos tradition, Friends’ supporters, volunteers, board and staff shared dinner and desserts potluck style while enjoying conversation, listening to Hylebos news and electing new board members and selecting the group’s officers for the next year.

Margery Godfrey was elected President while Rus Higley will serve as Vice-President. Matthew Jarvis will continue to serve as Treasurer, while Trisha Bennett will assume new duties as Secretary. Julie Brauns and Walt Schrader were re-elected to 3-year terms as at-large members. Board members serving existing terms include Anthony Chavez, Chris Kelsey, Bob Roegner (current past President) and Bob Heath.

”Our community has a vital need to ensure we have clean air and water, and a healthy environment for future generations, said Margery Godfrey, who has served on the board for three years. “I’m honored to have been selected President, and thrilled to be working with my fellow board members to ensure the Friends continues to be an effective catalyst for a green and healthy community.”

State Rep. Skip Priest, a longtime friend of the Hylebos and former board member, attended the event.