Couple has given much to community

Let me tell you something about Dan and Cindy Griesemer.

First let me publicly thank you both for setting the standard during the Kinderhaven Festival of Trees held at the Coldwater Creek atrium a long time ago.  Kinderhaven didn’t have a venue large enough for the annual fundraiser that year. Coldwater Creek stepped up and came to our rescue.  It wasn’t easy for everyone — there were obstacles to overcome but accommodations were made and a successful event was the outcome.

The night of the Gala and during the live auction, Dan and Cindy snuck in and sat in the back.  A tree was being auctioned at the time and Dan was one of the bidders. The bidding went back and forth. The excitement was building. We were trying to figure out who it was. Each time the bid went up the squeals of elation became louder and louder. The final bid was accepted and before the applause had subsided there was a voice from the back of the room “the tree is being donated back.” It took us awhile to figure out what had just happened. WOW, we had never experienced such a generous act of kindness.

I’ve learned over the years that this wonderful couple is an example of what makes Sandpoint great. This was the beginning of a wonderful friendship that Kinderhaven has enjoyed over the years. Dan and Cindy quietly and without the need of recognition have been responsible for giving children back their right to thrive, find joy and be secure in their future.

Dan and Cindy, I hope you will take comfort in knowing you have made a significant difference in the lives of so many children.

I, for one, am happy and grateful the Griesemers are staying in Sandpoint and I wish them well.

MARSHA OGILVIE

Sandpoint