To the editor:

It’s a sad irony that our organization’s event OkSOBERfest falls on John Lennon’s birthday, Oct. 9.

You see, John’s mother was killed when he was 17 by a driver who was under the influence. She was on her way to catch a bus to Penny Lane.

“Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans” John sang years later, and her death haunted him all the rest of his life.

The sort of everyday tragedy that devastates families, and leaves the rest of the world untouched.

For the past nine years the Impaired Driving Impact Panel of Island County has worked tirelessly to keep such tragedies from happening here.

Thanks to dozens of dedicated volunteers, IDIPIC has done this primarily through elementary to high school safety programs, driver’s education safety presentations and more than 200 impact panels.

So, if you’d like to have a good time for a good price for a good cause, come to the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge at 155 NE Ernst St. from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 9. People can call 360-672-8219 for more info.

Island Thrift is matching what IDIPIC raises up to $5,000, so even if you can’t attend, your ticket purchase gets doubled.

The cost is only $5 for adults and $1 for ages 10 to 19 (more at door).

“Imagine all the people” helping us strive for “safer kids, safer roads” that night. We hope to see you there!

JoAnn Hellmann

Director

IDIPIC