I’m delighted to say that the University of Washington Friday Harbor Labs’ 16th Jazz at the Labs fundraiser in support of the Friday Harbor Labs (K-12) Science Outreach Program was a great success! It was a perfect summer evening for excellent music, delicious food and generous giving. Dr. Adam Summers the “fabulous fish guy” was entertaining and engaging as he collected donations from the audience in support of two terrific science projects – the 9 day Biotechnology Invasive Mussel Lab and the Diver for a Day Program conducted aboard the Research Vessel Centennial.

This event’s fundraising supports our programs for this school year at every grade level at both the San Juan Island School District and Spring Street International School. During the 2016-17 school year we will work with about 700 local students and 24 teachers. The goal of the Science Outreach Program is to get students actively engaged in the process of science. We have developed a set of hands-on, inquiry based projects specifically designed to complement and enhance the current science curriculum in our local schools. Our program gives students the opportunity to ask questions and collect data while participating in experiments and fieldwork. These experiences teach them that they themselves are scientists!

We also gratefully acknowledged and thanked our generous FHLSOP sponsors. New this year: eAdvantage Direct Corp. and Tops’l Restaurant. And our returning, multiyear sponsors: Burke Critchfield, C & E Publications, Cask and Schooner Restaurant, Coldwell Banker SJI, Friday Harbor Drug, Island Petroleum Services, Islanders Insurance, King’s Market, Luxel Corporation, Mike’s Café & Wine Bar, Olshefsky Family, Post San Juan, Roche Harbor Resort, San Juan Interiors, San Juan Propane, San Juan Vineyards, Gary & Susan Sterner, Wells Fargo Bank and Wilson Motors of Bellingham.

In addition, FHLSOP received generous support from the Rebecca and Robert Pohlad, Dr. Carolyn Haugen, Wells Fargo Foundation, San Juan Island Community Foundation & Women’s Fund, Port of Friday Harbor and Friday Harbor Elementary School PTA.

Thank you Jazz at the Labs audience and San Juan Island Community it’s your support that makes this program possible.

Jenny Roberts

FHLSOP, Program Director

San Juan Island