Submitted by Island Artisans

In the midst of spring fever, Island Artisans is reeling that it has received a generous donation of $13521.75 from the estate of Howard Schonberger. Characteristically, Schonberger continues to show his support to the San Juan community. This money will greatly assist our annual fundraising for college scholarships for students pursuing the arts.

The mention of Schonberger’s name musters the connotation of whole community involvement. There is most likely not another person that has been more effectively and diversely involved in our community organizations as that of Schonberger’s enthusiastic and positive presence in groups from the American Legion to the first male member of Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor. His spirit “brings to light that which is good about humanity, and in doing so inspires others to become involved and make change in their community,” said Richard Walker, editor of The Journal from 1999 to 2011.

Schonberger has been a long-time member of Island Artisans; so long ago, board members are having a hard time remembering when he joined.

Schonberger often attended the annual Island Artisans Holiday Market with his wife, Helen. They would stop and speak with each creative vendor at their booths. The board recalls how Howard loved to sit at the front desk and sell raffle tickets so he could personally greet everyone as they arrived. The couple’s genuine-interest smiles and clear joy of the holiday market, celebrated the moment, as well as a path to make the future a better place. We are lucky to have shared in his presence and will warmly and proudly present his scholarship at this year’s high school graduation and future generations of our beloved island students.

Scholarship applications are due May 12.