On behalf of Solano Community Foundation, we would like to extend a special "thank you" to all of those involved in making our Education Plus! Mini-Grant Teacher Recognition Dinner on Nov. 18, 2009, a magnificent evening.

This annual event is held in honor of the Education Plus! Mini-Grant recipients, who demonstrated academic leadership by providing innovative projects for their students.

This program was created in 2000 by the foundation and contributes to the development of education as a vital source in the community. This year, we awarded 59 mini-grants to Solano County teachers in grades K-12 totaling more than $27,000.

Although we all face economic challenges, many members of our community made certain our teachers were provided with an opportunity to enhance their students' learning. We applaud, and are grateful to, the following sponsors: the Frank H. and Eva B. Buck Foundation, MV Transportation, Harry and Eleanor D. Nelson Vacaville Endowment Fund, Copart, Fairfield-Suisun Twilight Rotary, Jelly Belly Candy Company, Happel & Associates, Lynn Recknagel, Maria and Rod Moses, Mortimer Schwartz and Westamerica Bancorp.

The evening included more than 150 guests, who enjoyed meals and gifts graciously provided by Applebee's, Athenian Grill, Burger City, Center of Movement, China House Restaurant, Hilton Garden Inn Fairfield, Mirage Salon, OfficeMax, Rockville Grill, SCF Staff, Starbucks, Sticky Rice Bistro, Solano Community Symphony, Vasquez Deli and Vintage Café.

We would also like to thank the many students of the Benicia Middle School Viking Symphonic Band, conducted by GlennWalp, who provided outstanding music to the audience.

During the evening, teachers received accolades and certificates from our government and elected officials, including Rep. George Miller, Rep. John Garamendi, state Sen. Lois Wolk, state Sen. Pat Wiggins, Assemblymember Noreen Evans, Assemblymember Mariko Yamada and Mayor Harry Price of Fairfield.

We are grateful to Peggy Nelson, district representative for Supervisor John M. Vasquez, and the SCF Board of Directors, for their continued support of the program and event.

Solano Community Foundation, together with the help of numerous sponsors and donors, is helping to strengthen our community both now and for future generations. It's our mission.

To view a list of this year's winners, please visit www.solanocf.org.