As a business owner across the street from Vashon Allied Arts for the last 30 years, I have had the pleasure of watching this community-oriented organization grow. After attending informational meetings and seeing the plans for this new project, I wholeheartedly support it.

This opportunity to expand the facilities for artistic expression of community artists and students is well worth aggressively supporting. Additionally, meeting the need for a larger and higher quality venue for performing arts is important. When you consider the unique opportunity provided by the large private donations for a project that will positively affect the whole island and surrounding community, supporting this project seems undeniable.

For instance, I have recently been fortunate to purchase tickets to some excellent events that were sold out almost immediately. The opportunity lost by the current limited and uncomfortable venue is a concern because of all the wonderful performances, gallery shows and classes that VAA runs for the community.

I am looking forward to the completion of this project and continued growth of this vibrant community-oriented service organization.

— Thomas Skarshaug