By Janette Turner

One of the finest galas in town is the annual Swedish/Edmonds event. This year’s gala is set for Nov. 16, and we checked in recently with Swedish/Edmonds Gala Chair Annika Karr to get the scoop.

My Edmonds News: How did you get involved with the Swedish/Edmonds 2012 Imagine Gala?

A.K.: Last year I was asked to work on the gala committee by a couple of the gals that have worked on this in the past. I couldn’t possibly pass up the opportunity to work with such a great team! This is my second year with largely the same team. We are on target for an amazing event this year!

My Edmonds News: What parts of the Gala are you most excited about?

A.K.:  I’m really excited about all of our incredible auction items! Also, I can hardly wait to see our vision come to life in the space at the Lynnwood Convention Center. It’s a huge collaboration seeing our vision from start to finish, and once we get all of the pieces in place, it is so gratifying.

My Edmonds News: Which auction items should guests look for?

A.K.: We have a few trip packages that I’m excited about, and also lots of fantastic gift certificates! We have some beautiful jewelry donated by local jewelers. Some of our most popular items are dinners or parties at various local homes, which are just a winning combo. Our focus is generally on experience items such as getaways, restaurants, fun classes and spas.

My Edmonds News: What can folks do to support Swedish and the Gala?

A.K.: The Swedish/Edmonds Gala benefits our local community exclusively. Our beautiful community gives to us every day that we live here. I am honored to be part of giving back to this wonderful place we call home!  Come to the Gala and do some holiday shopping, you’ll be happy you did!

Janette’s note:  This year’s Gala supports Swedish/Edmonds charity care and the Cardiovascular Diagnostic Imaging Center, providing community access to comprehensive cardiac care. Tickets for the charity event can be purchased here.