On Aug. 1 and 2, greater Whidbey Island came together for a local fundraising event, the Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival. Along with our core group of festival volunteers, we had the additional support of a community that deserves recognition.

Those amazing Coupeville Lions and top-notch volunteers from NAS Whidbey helped to unload our vendors and smooth the set-up process for booths. Their smiles, enthusiasm, and self direction had vendors unloaded in record time. Seated rest stations throughout the festival ground were also provided by those hard-working Coupeville Lions, and many a weary guest was able to rest comfortably due to their efforts.

A water station was made possible by the combined effort of both the Oak Harbor Fire and Water Department, and the town of Coupeville. The station was manned throughout the weekend by highly skilled volunteers from Whidbey General Hospital EMS and the Department of Emergency Services. Quality first aid, complex medical support, and over 800 cups of ice water were served. Central Whidbey Fire and Rescue’s fire truck and crew spawned a whole new generation of junior fire-fighters as children scrambled over the fire truck asking questions and dreaming big dreams. Here again the enthusiasm, courtesy, and professionalism of all involved is to be commended.

The quality and customer service group of Whidbey Sea-Tac Shuttle transported 90 peninsula visitors from the Keystone ferry landing to the festival grounds and back, and as always the hard-working Coupeville town crew was there to assist with set-up and clean-up, and those upstanding Town Marshals patrolled to keep our streets and crowds safe. The Law Offices of Platt and Buescher and Dr. Hansen of Anacortes generously donated the use of their land, and finally the Coupeville merchants graciously and patiently supported a completely disrupted downtown.

Our amazing group of core volunteers must also be recognized. These dedicated individuals return every year to make the festival a great success. Without them and their commitment to excellent customer service, the Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival would not long survive. They are truly an awesome group of civic minded individuals committed to improving the quality of life in their community.

Thanks again to all of you who helped with this fun-filled, action packed, annual fundraising event.

Respectfully and in great appreciation,

The Coupeville

Festival Association