Editor,

What an amazing, enthusiastic and generous community we live in.

Thank you to all the supporters of the South Whidbey Schools Foundation Gala this past June 1.

We netted approximately $35,000 — a record. After 25 years in existence, we are stronger than ever. We have a strong and dedicated board and are excited to explore a more intentional and impactful future going forward as good stewards of these monies. Education truly is our future, and investments made early on are the most efficient and effective. A special shout-out to Whidbey Island/Heritage Bank for their $2,000 donation toward our gala.

We are also grateful to: The Star Store, SaviBank, Odigo, Trinity Lutheran Church, Go Blue and Island Athletic Club for their donations. We had many auction donors of gift cards, experiences, products, gift baskets, travel etc.: Ace, Blueacre Seafood, Boatyard Inn, Deep Harvest Farm, Disney Parks, Far Away Entertainment, Fox Tail Farm, Island County Fair, Island Shakespeare, Island Style Salon, Ivar’s, McMenamin’s, Optimism Brewing, Paramount Theatre, Pickles, Salon Bela, Seattle Aquarium, Seattle Children’s Museum, Seattle Mariners, Seattle Shakespeare, Seattle Storm, Sebo’s, Silverwood, Steven’s Pass, SWeL Restaurant, Swinomish Casino, Tacoma Rainiers, Defiance, The Bine Beer & Food, The Inn at Langley, The State Hotel, Total Wine & More, Useless Bay Golf & Country Club, Village Pizzeria, Village Theatre, Whidbey Wine Tasting Tours, WICA and Woodland Park Zoo.

A number of individuals also donated, and I apologize for any I miss: Brita Fisher, Jack Ng, Jo Moccia, Ruth and Jack Sumey, and Sue Frause. Students and education are in good hands, thanks to a great community. Thanks for helping us help students.

Shelly Ackerman

President, South Whidbey Schools Foundation