Grinch didn’t steal this Christmas

ATHOL – In a huge outpouring of generosity, North Idahoans donated more than $15,000 in cash and presents following last week’s break-in at the Athol Community Center when thieves stole Christmas gifts, an unknown amount of cash and about $3,500 in Fred Meyer gift cards intended for the area’s needy.

Last Friday people stood more than five deep at the Community Center counter to donate money and gifts as community members shed tears of collective anger, growled in disbelief, then opened their hearts and wallets. Their generosity ensured a Merry Christmas was had by all whose gifts were stolen.

At press time, one man was in custody and another was being sought. Security cameras recorded images of the burglars as they were about to enter the Community Center shortly after 4 a.m. last Thursday. Wrecking three doors, the thieves broke into the office, where they found a key to the safe, law enforcement officials said. In addition to the money, many presents – already gift wrapped for the recipients – were either unwrapped or stolen. Last Friday everyone from retirees to children was bringing money and presents to replace what had been lost. One man stood patiently while city clerk and treasurer Charlotte Hooper, who also heads the ABC Food Bank, helped two families with gifts and gift cards. He then handed her two $100 bills, then turned and walked away.

People at a community wide potluck dinner in Bayview heard about the theft, passed the hat and collected around $300, with Chuck Waller offering to match the donations. Waller then visited Terry’s Cafe, where he made the same offer, then presented ABC Food Bank with a check for $638.

Amounts ranging from hundreds of dollars to $5 or $10 came pouring through the door as local people stepped up to help. One woman brought in rolls of coins she had been saving for a rainy day. The rolls contained $24. Volunteers flowed up from Bayview, eager to do what they could.

Tom and Jackie Lloyd, Bob and Nan Fletcher, and many others pitched in. Dick Hansen, owner of the Bitter End Marina and Dromore B&B, walked in, ready as always to do more than his share. Alisha Louvier, 19, dashed to town to do some last-minute Christmas shopping, not for her or her family and friends, but for the people whose Christmas was nearly ruined by the thieves.

Gary Norton, owner of Silverwood Theme Park, directed that a check for $3,000 be donated, as well as many toys and T-shirts. Rathdrum Food Bank donated $1,000. The Shoshone County Sheriff’s Department loaded up a prisoner transport van with gifts and headed for Athol.

Volunteers busily wrapped or rewrapped gifts that would be given out the next day. The food bank was briefly open Saturday, then closed down for the week.