Town officially dedicates Alhadeff Park

Published 1:30 am Monday, November 24, 2025

The pocket park formerly known as Breezeway Park, located by Palace Theatre, was officially dedicated as Alhadeff Park in honor of Palace Theatre owners and long-time islanders Judy and Jerry Alhadeff on Nov. 6.

The sidewalk was packed with islanders waiting to see the ribbon cutting and pay tribute to Jerry, as well as to his wife Judy, who passed away in 2024.

The Town of Friday Harbor wrote in their press release about the ribbon cutting:

“The Alhadeffs purchased the theater in 1982 to prevent the 100-year-old building from being repossessed by the bank and turned into a furniture store. ‘It has never broken even, but it is important to the town, who has been so kind to us,’ said Jerry. ‘Our family’s intent is to maintain the theater for years to come.’ The Alhadeffs’ daughter, Dina, now runs the theater with the support of manager Aaron King.”

Jerry was awarded the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce’s “Sam Buck Community Service Award” in 2024.

Steve Buck presented the award, explaining that “Although the Palace Theatre is a business, Jerry and Judy have never taken any money out of it. Truth be told, they have put money into it each year, sometimes lots of money. Jerry and Judy’s attitudes are that they feel fortunate to be able to do so.”

At the time, Jerry responded, “It’s pretty special, in a smaller community. You have made us feel a part of it. Thank you.”

The park features a carved stone table, a granite chair and a granite bench/couch, all of which were the work of San Juan Island sculptor Tom Small.

Attendee and long-time islander Trish Morse called attention to Small’s incredible artistry before turning to Jerry, saying, “I know Judy would be very happy [with the park’s dedication], and Jerry, we love you. Thank you for being you.”

The crowd mingled for a while after the ribbon was cut, shaking hands with Jerry and thanking him, as Morse put it, for being him.