To the editor:

I felt humbled last weekend at the Friendship Force dinner fundraiser for the Japan earthquake and tsunami disaster relief. So many good people gave so kindly of their time and talents.

The musicians, Gloria Ferry-Brennan, Rumi and Arthur Keast, Linda Good, Kimmer Morris, Ken Pickard and Quinn Fitzpatrick played grand renditions of everything from classical pieces to movie scores for the entertainment of the generous diners.

Chung Tran and eight members of the Basil Café staff also donated their time and considerable culinary and service talents to help the disaster victims.

Another eight people, members of Friendship Force — past and present — handled the many details of event publicity, management and follow-up with assurance and competence.

I extend a special thanks to Chris Williams who devoted a vast amount of hours to the project. Lastly, many thanks to Patricia Duff for her excellent article in the Record on Friendship Force home-stay and travel programs and this disaster relief project.

Like so many islanders, you people are simply awesome.

SHIRLEY HAUCK

President

Friendship Force of Whidbey Island