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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

New donations

Garco Construction, of Spokane, gave $25,000. “As we have for the past 35-plus years, we at Garco are pleased to be able to give back to this community that has been responsible for much of our success. We thank all the many volunteers that make this all possible,” wrote CEO James T. Welsh, president Clancy Welsh, vice president Hollis Barnett and vice president James T. Welsh Jr.

Hotstart, of Spokane, gave $10,000.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $5,000, writing that they are “continually amazed at the work you do in this community. You are a lifeboat to many who would otherwise drown in the river of their life.”

Bernardo-Wills Architects, PC, of Spokane, gave $3,000.

The employees of Spokane Public School’s maintenance, warehouse, facility services and purchasing departments gave $2,527.55. “While we take pride in supporting public education in Spokane on a daily basis, it is with glad hearts that we also support this very worthy and necessary endeavor within our community. Your efforts to bring a ray of happiness to others each Christmas is a tremendous opportunity for our community to come together and help our own,” wrote fund raising committee co-chairs Wayne Bergstresser and George Loos.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $2,000 in memory of their loved ones, who are dearly missed, especially during this holiday season.

Teachers and staff at University High School, in Spokane Valley, gave $1,410. “In what has become an annual tradition, the teachers and staff of University High School have dedicated themselves to helping those less fortunate during the holiday season. We are proud to show our spirit as Titans,” they wrote.

Washington State University Chancellor Lisa Brown sent $1,100. “Thank you to the Christmas Bureau for the opportunity to give and to my colleagues here at WSU Spokane who matched my gift,” she wrote.

Virginia and Dr. Michael Berg, of Spokane, gave $1,000, as did an anonymous Spokane Valley donor.

James Kay, of Spokane, gave $960.70 via PayPal.

The Suburbanites, of Spokane Valley, gave $600. The Suburbanites is a group of about 30 Spokane women who organize three large fundraisers annually for organizations that help area children, such as food banks, Children’s Village, the Spokane Guild School, Tom’s Turkey Drive and The Spokesman-Review Christmas Fund.

Donna Reinbold, of Cheney, gave $582.30 via PayPal.

Two anonymous Spokane donors gave $500. One wrote, “Our family has been so blessed. So, in lieu of gifts to our adult children, we are sending the money for those less fortunate. May God bless them and all who work so hard to give them a happy Christmas.”

Dennis and Donna Kelly, of Spokane, gave $500 in memory of Don Kelly, longtime Christmas Bureau volunteer.

Spokane donors giving $500 include Gary and Susan Bloom, James and Sarah Sledge, Linda Procopio, Spokane Production Service Inc. and Jack and Pat Russell, who wrote, “in gratitude for all we have and to share with those with less. Thanks to all the volunteers.”

James and Linda Solan, of Spokane, gave $500. “Hoping this contribution brings some Christmas cheer to those less fortunate. Kudos to all those involved with the Christmas Bureau,” wrote Linda Solan.

Spokane Public Montessori gave $500. “Part of our philosophy is to support service organizations locally and globally,” wrote student Lucy Gehn. “We appreciate you, and are honored to support the work you do for children and families in our community.”

Tim Quirk and Sally Bulger Quirk, of Spokane, gave an annual grant of $500 via Schwab Charitable Fund, with “special thanks to the amazing toy buyers: Janelle Kortlever, Reesie Smith and Cheryl Taam.”

John Tiffany, of Veradale, gave $500.

Glenn Breen, of Goodyear, Arizona, gave $485.20 via PayPal.

John and Marlene Geraghty Connolly, of Spokane, gave $485.20 via PayPal, as did Jeff Sitton with Spokane Roofing.

An anonymous Spokane donor sent a combination of checks and cash totaling $370.

Delphine and Donald Ladd, of Spokane, gave $325, “in thanksgiving for all our family’s blessings.”

J & J Drilling, Inc., of Greenacres, gave $300, as did Wesley and Dorothy Newbill, of Otis Orchards.

Wendy Perry, of Medical Lake, gave $300, as did Patricia and Dionisio Morales.

Spokane donors giving $300 include Craig and Pauline Soehren, an anonymous donor, James Bankston, Ted and Winnie Allen, and William Dinneen, who wrote, “Thanks for all you do!”

Christine Ashenbrener, of Spokane, gave $300, writing, “Anna, Evan and Eric Ashenbrener want to share a happy Christmas with other families in the community. They love food, books and toys and are glad you give these gifts to others.”

Larry and Joan Reuthinger, of Spokane, gave $300 in memory of Larry’s loving wife, Linnea Reuthinger, and their parents Joe and Mary Reuthinger. “They all taught us about a generous heart and to support the less fortunate. Thanks for all the Christmas Bureau does,” they wrote.

Virginia Schneidmiller, of St. John, Washington, gave $300.

Elaine Cullen, of Chattaroy, gave $250, writing, “Thank you so much for making this possible. Our community is so much stronger for showing its love and generosity to its vulnerable members!”

Nate and Bonnie Narrance, of Colbert, gave $250 in memory of their son Ken and friend Shirley Schoenberger.

Gary and Donna Trowbridge, of Spokane, gave $250 in memory of their mothers. “Merry Christmas to each of you. You make a huge difference to so many,” they wrote.

Shirley and Matt Alling, of Spokane, gave $250. “Shirley and I firmly believe no child should be neglected, especially at Christmas!” they wrote, giving in memory of their parents, Milbert and Frances Joachim and George Alling, and in honor of Edith Alling Lael. “They were the ones that taught us this belief.”

Sidney Nicholson, of Spokane, gave $250, writing, “Your program allows people to participate in a positive way for the Christmas season. Thanks!”

Steve Duvall and Soleil Real Estate, of Spokane, gave $250.

Other Spokane donors giving $250 were Daniel and Kathleen Johnson and Associates, Deborah Roundy, Dorene and William Reynolds, Lori and Scott Schuldt, and Robert and Elizabeth Lemoine.

Del and Ruth Mattix, of Veradale, gave $250. “I know the sadness of growing up during the Great Depression and being told we had no money for Christmas presents but as a 6 year old I knew we were very poor. Then I knew the joy of having an aunt and uncle who brought us toys and clothes and reading books. This act of generosity made our Christmas one of happiness. I shall never forget. I know this small donation will bring some joy and happiness to some unfortunate family. Thanks to all the volunteers. God bless you all.” they wrote.

David Maccini, of Colbert, gave $242.45 via PayPal.

Pam Hall, of Spokane Valley, gave $242.45 via PayPal in memory of her husband, Monte Hall.

Sherry and John Gaiser, of Spokane, gave $210.

Ken Gerard and Lynda Ensign, of Clayton, Washington, gave $200, as did an anonymous Cheney donor.

Douglas B. Ecton, P.S., of Colbert, gave $200, as did Roger and Dianna Johnson.

Kleweno Family Farms, of Endicott, Washington, gave $200, as did John and Teri-Ann Nystrom, of Liberty Lake.

Nick and Leslie Zilka, of Liberty Lake, gave $200, writing, “Today was our first time working at the Christmas Bureau and what an experience! The volunteers were a great group but it was the recipients who touched my heart. Thanks for your long-lasting generosity.”

Susan Mincey, of Medical Lake, gave $200.

Jerold and Candi Vincent, of Newman Lake, gave $200. “This is an amazing fundraiser. God bless all of you,” they wrote.

Spokane donors who gave $200 included Gary Michel and Jan Carrington, Leonette and James Hiller, and three anonymous donors.

Bob and Vickie McCann, of Spokane, gave $200. “We hope this helps you meet the 2014 goal. What a fantastic program!” they wrote.

Dee Dee Christian, of Spokane, gave $200 in loving memory of her dad, Denny Waltermire, and her grandparents, Mark and Allene Hollenback.

M. Patricia Price, of Spokane, gave $200 in memory of her son and his wife.

Tom and Gini Burns, of Spokane, gave $200. “Many thanks to the S-R Christmas Bureau and all the volunteers for your efforts each Christmas,” they wrote.

Joyce Nuxoll, of Spokane, gave $193.90 via PayPal.

Georgene Patten, of Spokane, gave $160 to recognize Mick Soss, a 16-year bureau volunteer. “Thank you Mick for making a difference,” she wrote. “Mick and my husband Les Patten had so many wonderful years together as championship doubles partners. Thank you Spokesman-Review, Catholic Charities, and Volunteers of America for giving the Spokane community an opportunity to be a part of this Christmas Fund.”

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $157.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $150 in honor of Cutter and another $150 in honor of Meghan.

Other Spokane donors who gave $150 included Gary and Hope Roszell, John and Kay Feirich, HIM Department at Royal Park Health and Rehab, an anonymous donor and Joan and Mike Keegan.

Gary Crooks, of Spokane, gave $150, from Carly and Calvin, in memory of Mom.

Inland Northwest Truck Claims, of Spokane Valley, gave $150.

Marietta Gilmore, of Spokane Valley, gave $150 in memory of Jerry Gilmore and Louie Aquino.

An anonymous Liberty Lake donor gave $145.35 via PayPal.

Michael Williams, of Spokane, gave $145.35 via PayPal.

Donald Gale Jr., of Spokane, gave $125.

Chris Powell, of Spokane, gave $110.

The Fulgaro family, Patti, Tony, Nicholas, Faith and Jasper, of Spokane, gave $101.

An anonymous Coeur d”Alene donor gave $100. “Thank you for the opportunity to support this kind effort to help make this season better for deserving children and families.”

An anonymous Colbert donor gave $100. “Thank you for your dedication to making Christmas a little more happy for many,” they wrote.

Frederika and Samuel Wetterhus, of Colbert, gave $100 in memory of their son, Bob. “May it help make someone’s holiday brighter,” they wrote.

M. and A. Janke, of Colbert, gave $100, as did James Millard, of Deer Park.

John Guest, of Greenacres, gave $100 in loving memory of his wife Christine. “Keep up the good work,” he wrote.

Albert and Jean Pistorius, of Hayden Lake, gave $100.

Liberty Lake donors who gave $100 were Robert and Gloria Sawyer, William and Doris Anderson and an anonymous donor.

Blaine Krebs, of Mead, gave $100, as did an anonymous donor.

Patrick and Laurie Ferrell, of Mead, gave $100 in memory of Eileen Ferrell and Jean Larson. “Thank you for what you do for those in need,” they wrote.

Sharon and Brian Brunck, of Mead, gave $100. “Our family has been very blessed this year and we want to share it with those who haven’t,” they wrote.

Dennis and Bernice Nelson, of Nine Mile Falls, gave $100, as did Gary and Kathy James, who gave “in memory of Steven L. Prince, a good friend.”

Spokane donors who gave $100 included A.K. and S.A. Katsaris, five anonymous donors, Barbara and Glen Shaw, Brian and Ruth Sullivan, Chris and Jonnie Schroeder, Colleen Mckee, Colleen Striegel, and Eileen and William Dittman.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $100 in memory of June.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $100. “A big ‘thank you’ to all the volunteers and agencies that make this ‘Spokane Christmas Miracle’ a success each year. The Spokane community is a generous community,” she wrote.

Don and Linda Townsend, of Spokane, gave $100 in memory of Don’s mother, Geri Martin. “Thank you for all you do for the community,” they wrote.

Joan Williams, of Spokane, gave $100 in memory of her husband, Roy Anderson, who loved little children being happy. “To all the volunteers and people that make this wonderful program happen … That’s what you do.”

Other Spokane donors giving $100 were Joni Stein, Julie and Erik Ohlund, Mary Ann O’Mara, Michael and Elynor Soss, Dana Besecker, Gregory and Amy Meyer, Delbert and Rojean Flory, and Gary Williamson.

Karen Harrington, of Spokane, gave $100 in honor of her grandchildren, Ova Hudson and Milla Greyson. “A great place to volunteer,” she wrote.

Lee and Julie Fish, of Spokane, gave $100 in memory of Jack Shagool, who recently died. “Thanks to you and your wonderful volunteers for this amazing program,” they wrote.

Mary Dwyer, of Spokane, gave $100 in memory of her husband and sister-in-law. “I wish for happiness to the people who will have the Bureau’s help this year,” she wrote.

Myrna Shockley, of Spokane, gave $100 in memory of Vern Shockley, from his wife and family.

Randi O’Brien, of Spokane, gave $100, and wrote, “I’ll never forget the kindness and help my son and I received from you when we needed it. Thanks for what you do. Merry Christmas.”

An anonymous Spokane Valley donor gave $100. “Thank you for helping those who need it most. They are so deserving,” they wrote.

Candace Murray, of Spokane Valley, gave $100.

Patti and Wayne Hibdon, of Spokane Valley, gave $100. “To all the Christmas Fund volunteers, wishing you all the joy that is found in the true meaning of Christmas, a little of what you do every day there! Continue your good work!” they wrote.

Rachael and Jesse Chamberlin, of Spokane Valley, gave $100. “Merry Christmas to all, this is our first of many seasons of giving to come. We want our daughter Quinn to know how important the Christmas Bureau is!” they wrote.

Robert and LeeAnn Hanke, of Spokane Valley, gave $100.

Roger Erhart, of Spokane Valley, gave $100.

Sue and Tom Eastman, of Spokane Valley, gave $100 “in honor of our precious grandchildren. Thank you for all that you do,” they wrote.

Tim Wolferman, of Spokane Valley, gave $100.

Laural and Jim Hepton, of Veradale, gave $100 in memory of their mothers, Maxine Hepton and Katherine Lambright, “two wonderful ladies whose lives mirrored the kindness and compassion of the Christmas Bureau.”

Toni Gorman, of Granite Bay, California, gave $96.80 via PayPal in memory of her grandmother Nita Cave.

Julie Cornell, of Nashville, Tennessee, gave $96.80 via PayPal in honor of Ardith Divine, and another $96.80 in honor of Duke and Sue Cornell.

Douglas Jayne, of Spokane, gave $96.80 via PayPal, to “help needy Spokane families.”

Michael Zorich, of Spokane, gave $96.80 via PayPal. “In honor of Joe Zorich, a great man and dad. I love you Dad!”

Jon Visintainer, of Spokane Valley, gave $96.80 via PayPal.

An anonymous Spokane Valley donor gave $95. “Best wishes to your dear helpers. I am sending $95 as I am 95 years of age,” she wrote, “looking forward to the year I can send $100.”

SCC Adult Basic Ed Student Council, of Spokane, gave $79.

Garald Gesinger, of Nine Mile Falls, gave $75.44 via PayPal.

Darla Malone, of Hayden, gave $75 for her mother, Maxine Malone, and in honor of her father, Richard Malone.

Joe and Mary Hanson, of Nine Mile Falls, gave $75. “Thanks for your help in making Christmas special for others,” they wrote.

Joan Pribnow, of Spokane, gave $75, as did Phyllis Hanson.

Cheryl and Gary Allen, of Spokane Valley, gave $75.

Mavis Baum, of Newman Lake, gave $70.

Vic and Mike Roberts, of Kennewick, gave $60, a Christmas gift in the name of Grandma Bonnie Roberts.

Lynn Meyers, of Spokane, gave $60. “Thank you for all you do to make Christmas dreams come true for those who need some extra help!” she wrote.

Sherri Pennell, of Spokane, gave $60 in honor of Doris and Lee Pennell and Carrie and Doug Pennell.

Valley Girls Lunch Bunch, from Valley Adventist church, of Spokane, gave $53. “After helping with our church tree of sharing, we had a few dollars left. Hope this will help a bit,” they wrote.

Rick Clark, of Honolulu, gave $50 in memory of his parents Chuck and Nettie Clark.

An anonymous Mead donor gave $50, writing, “Bless all the work you do.”

Daunita Higgins, of Newport, gave $50.

An anonymous Rockford donor gave $50 in honor of family.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $50. “Thank you for all that you do for those less fortunate,” she wrote.

Spokane donors who gave $50 included Barry Newberry, four anonymous donors, Charles and Judy Smith, Dianne Bongarts, Dixie Drake Zahniser, Eddy and Monica Nagashima, John and Ann Miller, Karleen and Kenneth Blanchard, Kenneth and Beverly Stam, Kenneth Duncan, and Stephanie Klein.

Gerry Giles, of Spokane, gave $50. “I hope this will help you reach your goal. Thank you to the charities and all of the volunteers who help out. Merry Christmas to all and have a happy New Year,” he wrote.

Jim and Carole Heinen, of Spokane, gave $50 in memory of their parents, John and Anna Heinen and Andy and Florence Underdahl, and their grandson, Dylan Heinen.

Myrna Shockley, of Spokane, gave $50 in memory of good friends Chuck and Nettie Clark, with love.

Patrick and Linda Smith, of Spokane, gave $50.

Raland and Cindy John, of Spokane, gave $50. “Happy to contribute to this wonderful fund that benefits people in our community. Thank you so much!” they wrote.

Shirley Keller, of Spokane, gave $50. “Thank you for providing this opportunity to share in the giving,” she wrote.

Wayne and Nancy Wright, of Spokane, gave $50.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $25 in memory of Eddie Spitter and $25 in memory of Denny Freuen.

An anonymous Spokane Valley donor gave $50 in honor of her daughter-in-law’s mother. “We exchange charity donations each year – always the right size, no returns needed!” she wrote.

John and Beverly Johnson, of Spokane Valley, gave $50.

Kim and Glen Taylor, of Spokane Valley, gave $50. “May this help some of the less fortunate in our community,” they wrote.

Regan and Sandi Hulbert, of Spokane Valley, gave $50, as did Andrew Collins, of Watertown, Massachusetts.

Tampsin Witner, of Elk, gave $48.25 via PayPal, “in loving memory of my Dad, LLoyd Kay. Pip Witner.”

Barb Miller, of Greenacres, gave $48.25 via PayPal, as did Barbara K. Kogler, of Liberty Lake, and Susan Brann, of Otis Orchards.

Ralph Walter, of Spokane, gave $48.25 via PayPal in memory of his mother, Carol Walter.

Susan Watson-Persyn, of Priest River, Idaho, gave $43 in memory of Auzzie Watson, who would have been 43 this year. “He was a giving child and would want to be remembered helping other children,” she wrote.

Nancy Gillespie’s bridge group, of Spokane, gave $43 in her memory.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $40 in memory of Mac and Bernie, who loved having family “Home for the Holidays.”

Ronald and Janet Knapp, of Oldtown, Idaho, gave $38 “in memory of my dear daughter, Dawn Hunt, who would have been that age (38) this year. Also in memory of her father, Ed Hunt, who sadly lost his battle with cancer in July. And to remember a dear family friend, Marge Spencer, who left us in September. Merry Christmas and God bless to all,” Janet Knapp wrote.

An anonymous Mead donor gave $30, as did two anonymous Spokane donors.

Ann Carey and Patty Rabel, of Spokane, gave $30, their 18th donation in memory of their dad, Ken Rabel.

Paula and Dennis Heimbigner, of Spokane Valley, gave $30.

Richard and Claudia Kroll, of Nine Mile Falls, gave $25, as did William and Gelene Griffiths.

An anonymous Spokane donor gave $25 in memory of Roy, “who loved Christmas and children.”

Other Spokane donors giving $25 were Dawn Abernathy, Jim and Linda Falk, and Joyce Gunning.

D.H. Edwards, of Spokane Valley, gave $25.

Donald and Geraldine Boston, of Spokane Valley, gave $25, “a gift to remember my son and his wife, Steve and Fran.”

Roger and Pat French, of Spokane Valley, gave $25, as did Ruth Mae Haas.

Kristin Markham, of Spokane, gave $23.97 via PayPal in honor of their children’s classroom teachers.

Sharon Swanson, of Spokane, gave $23.97 via PayPal.

Spokane Public Schools gave $23.89.

Ed Pierson, of Moscow, Idaho, gave $10 in memory of family Harold, Hilda, and Roy.

Ann Contols, of Spokane, gave $10.

Pixie Productions, of Spokane, gave $9.41 via PayPal.