Community Thanks January 2, 2010

PARTNERSHIPS: Students, faculty appreciate work

Out with the old; in with the new. On behalf of Lewis-Clark State-Coeur d'Alene, I extend my sincere thanks to Lake City Development Corporation, the city of Coeur d'Alene and North Idaho College.

Because of those partnerships, our students and faculty returning in January will appreciate the skilled work of ETCO, Dan Macdonald, NIC Carpentry Program and NIC instructor Dave McRae. We truly appreciate our collaboration with and the generosity of this marvelous community.

CYNDIE HAMMOND, Ph.D.

Regional Director, LC-CDA

CHRISTMAS: People went out of their way

Dear Editor, I just wanted to tell you how wonderful our Christmas was this year.

Even though I have been very ill and unable to work this year, we had a great Christmas due to some wonderful people that went out of their way to make sure we did.

Since we are bringing in a great deal less a month now, I was sure our Christmas was going to be very grim for my 7-year-old grandson. Then all of a sudden, on the twelfth day of Christmas there was a ringing of the doorbell and a fleeting of footsteps. There on our door were presents.

This continued every night until Christmas. We do not know who was so generous. I don't know of any other way to thank them without knowing who they are except through your paper.

Then the "Shop with a Cop" program also came through for my grandson by taking him shopping for his momma and myself. They not only took him shopping, they also did a Christmas dinner for us. I have never been more grateful in my entire life. Everyone has been so generous and supportive during this very humbling experience.

My daughter had to step up and take me to all of my doctor appointments on top of working 40 hours a week and taking on 13 credits at North Idaho College while still taking care of her son and myself since I was confined to bed most of my illness. I wish I could be as great of a friend to all of them as they have been to us. I will be forever thankful.

On top of wonderful friends, community, church family I have the most wonderful doctor in Dr. John Sturges. He has been very supportive and encouraging even when I have wanted to just give up. He even gave my daughter his cell number in case I needed him day or night.

She was to call him. I know that doesn't sound like much to someone that has not been in my place this year however, I cannot tell you how much it has meant to me. Between my Church Home teachers Doug Ratelle and Steve Griffitts, I have not given up. The people of this community are truly the best in all of the places I have lived. Thank you all for your wonderful help and support. My daughter and I could not have done it without all of your help. Sincerely,

KATHY SCHNELL

Hayden