To the editor:

Friendship Force of Whidbey Island gives our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and/or donated to the dinner at Basil Café.

We raised more than $1,200 for the victims of the 2010 Haiti earthquake. The proceeds will be given to Partners in Health, a 501(c)(3), which gives 94.8 percent of the donations it receives to its programs.

Thanks to Chef Chung Tran and wife, Cathy, who served a delicious Pan Asian buffet and their staff of Challana Roberts, Danny Torget, Ann Breedlove, Marlene Joy and Tiea Matzen, who graciously donated their afternoon and their tips.

A huge bravo to Laura Strehlau, coordinator of the fundraiser, Chris Williams, who tied up all the loose ends, Carolyn Tamler and her daughter, and Kathy Hornsby, who did publicity.

Making the afternoon even more special was the music of Elizabeth Lovelace and Troels Oxenvad of The Rendevous, and Troy Chapman of Billet Deux.

This is a generous community that keeps giving, even in tough times. Thanks for making our World Friendship Day Project a success.

Sandie Gitchell, Laura Strehlau, Ken Cado, Shirley Hauck and Diane Schneider

The Board of Friendship Force of Whidbey Island