The Whidbey Island Aerie of the Fraternal Order of Eagles celebrated Oktoberfest with dinner, music and the burning of  their mortgage on their Freeland property on Saturday.

The sky was lit by a large bonfire and the members threw their copies of the note into the fire.

The Aerie was first occupied in 1995 and has become a mainstay in the community for weddings, memorials, community meetings and fundraisers.

Each year, the Eagles give tens of thousands of dollars to charities on the island. With no more mortgage this year, the club plans to give more.

Members of the club give their thanks to Coastal Community Bank for working with the club.

The Aerie also donates their kitchen and club area to Eating 4 Charity. Joan Smith cooks every Monday, Wednesday and Friday; the proceeds — $500 to $600 monthly — go to a different local charity each month. Watch their billboard for the different menus. The public is always welcome — but you must be a member or guest for bar service.