I want to thank all Snoqualmie Valley residents for donating so

generously to the “Giving Trees,” a Kiwanis project. I had placed

1,350 names on seven trees throughout the Valley. I especially want to thank

the management and owners of QFC, Safeway, Ace Hardware,

Blimpies, Maguire Hill Real Estate, Sterling Bank, Moose Lodge of North

Bend and the Family Neighborhood Market in Fall City. Without the help of

these very fine merchants allowing us to place the trees in their

establishments, the Giving Tree project could not

be completed.

Sterling Bank was the depot for the gifts. The gifts took up

three-quarters of the floor space. The generosity

of Valley residents is overwhelming and very satisfying at the same time.

The Valley made it to where 1,350 children and seniors will have a Christmas

this year.

I wish to thank Francis and Lori Claffey of Claffey Painting for

provided five covered trucks to haul the gifts from North Bend to Hopelink

in Carnation, where the recipients receive their gifts. Francis and Lori and

their five foremen were a great help with the loading, unloading and hauling.

A lot of people have asked how I received the names. I receive

my names from Hopelink, which receives its names from the local food

banks. A representative from Hopelink visits the food banks in late November

and early December to sign people up for the gifts. Ken McCarty of the

North Bend food bank has been very helpful in the effort to reach all of those

in need.

Again, the Snoqualmie Valley Kiwanians wish to thank all

residents and merchants who unselfishly donated their businesses and gifts! A

special, personal thank you to Gail and John from Bank of America for

their generosity, and to Bob Bonner, who transported all of the gifts from

the stores to Sterling Bank. The Valley is wonderful place to call home!

And Happy Holidays!

Linda L. Bonner

“Giving Trees” chairperson

Snoqualmie Valley Kiwanis Club