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Hometown Hero Bob Alexander poses for a photo at his family home in Clinton. Respected as a former educator

Life

Bob Alexander: Mr. A, still inspiring consistency

For those who know Bob Alexander, affectionately called “Mr. A,” he’s referred to as a steady-Eddie, a behind-the-scenes…

Hometown Hero Carol Barnes is Island County’s longtime animal control officer

Life

Carol Barnes: Animal cop keeps sight of the mission | HOMETOWN HERO

How many times in life are we motivated only to become disillusioned? How many times do we feel…

Angela Vosburg

Life

Angela Vosburg: Service, hospitality, humor | HOMETOWN HERO

With a heart as big as her smile, Angela Vosburg has a way with people. Some describe her…

Mary Fisher visits the Whidbey Island Nourishes team as they prepare dozens of lunches for children and families on the island. She helped found the organization that works to feed people in need across Whidbey Island.

Life

Mary Fisher: Bloom where you are planted | HOMETOWN HERO

Mary Fisher says she’s learned to bloom wherever she is in life. When Fisher’s kids left home, she…

Jean Matheny poses for a picture at Soups On. Behind her are volunteers Rick Klein

Life

JEAN MATHENY: Helping others to feel at ease | HOMETOWN HERO

Ever feel like you’re fumbling for what to say when someone has had a loss, or feel so…

James Itaya is this year’s South Whidbey High School Hometown Hero.

Life

HOMETOWN HERO | James Itaya: Answering the call to action

Actions, not mere words, are what defines the reputation and character of a person, according to James Itaya,…

Life

What others say about Erik Jokinen | HOMETOWN HERO

“Erik has been instrumental in developing one of the most effective physical education programs in our state here…

Erik Jokinen poses for a photo while his children

Life

Jokinen: Life is about choices, not circumstances | HOMETOWN HERO

Not all lessons in the classroom come from textbooks. Sometimes they come from special teachers, professionals such as…

Judy Thorslund enjoys a bit of dessert

Life

Judy Thorslund: Amends for a rocky past | HOMETOWN HERO

She came to South Whidbey in 1977, leaving a life behind her in Seattle that had been shattered…

Life

What others say about Ula Lewis | HOMETOWN HERO

“Ula brings all of her gifts to the table here at Good Cheer Food Bank. Her tireless contribution…

Hometown Hero Ula Lewis poses for a photo with fellow volunteer and friend

Life

Lewis: Coupon master passes on saving skills | HOMETOWN HERO

Ula Lewis volunteers more than 60 hours per week to teach families and single people — young and…

Life

What locals say about Fritz Hull | HOMETOWN HERO

What locals say about Fritz Hull, a South Whidbey Hometown Hero.

Fritz Hull (center) stands with his son Timothy and wife Vivienne.  More than 40 years ago

Life

Fritz Hull: Changing Whidbey with hope, creative action | HOMETOWN HERO

What visions and dreams do you see for the future? Fritz Hull says, “Humans have the remarkable ability…