Thanks a bunch

COEUR d'ALENE - The Cancer and Community Charities (3Cs) will be saying "thanks a bunch" during the organization's annual Appreciation Brunch at 10 a.m. Aug. 22 at The Coeur d'Alene Resort.

The 3Cs will be giving away $88,000 to Kootenai County nonprofit organizations that have shown a substantial need for funds, which will be used to enrich and strengthen the facilities, activities, support and lives of those they serve.

"I feel, personally, that it's our most important event of the year, beside the fundraisers, because that's where we actually give away all the money that we earn throughout the whole year," said 3Cs President Bobbi Freeman of Coeur d'Alene. "My heart just beats because that's what it's all about."

The Appreciation Brunch will honor the 30 chosen charitable organizations in a banquet setting. They will be presented with checks and the amounts will be released the day of the ceremony.

"This is all about the recipients," said 3Cs publicity chair Marcia Saunders of Post Falls. "This is their day, and our saying how wonderful they are to the community and how much we appreciate all they do."

The Appreciation Brunch will include a meal and entertainment. Renowned composer and pianist Brian Crain will provide the music and will play a few numbers with professional musician Diana Clemons of Harmony Ranch in Rathdrum.

The brunch will also serve as a membership drive and installation of officers. Freeman will introduce president-elect Judy Gardner of Coeur d'Alene as the 3Cs baton is passed.

"I'm looking forward to it, we have a great group of women," Gardner said. "It's a wonderful organization, and we're going to just continue on down the road, keep on making money to give it away."

The public is invited to attend and can purchase tickets by contacting Gardner at (208) 664-4604 or by sending a self-addressed envelope with a $28 check to Cancer & Community Charities, P.O. Box 1274 Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814.