Annabelle Stachnik is a third-grader at the Grand Traverse Academy and her friend, Anna Jackson, is a second-grader. The two share the same homeroom.
When Annabelle received an invitation to Anna's seventh birthday party, Annabelle's mom, Alaina Stachnik, was so impressed that Anna asked her guests to consider making a donation to a local food pantry instead of giving her gifts, that she went out of her way to make sure that such an "honorable, thoughtful little girl" received something special to remember her birthday.
"I called Father Fred's and told them of Anna's request, asking if I were to bring a card could some of the staff sign it for her and if I could take pictures ... and make our contribution while we were there," Alaina wrote. "They were more than happy to do so. Upon our arrival, Kathy Gibbons helped us ... . The staff was very busy, but still shared their happy smiles with us as I took pictures and Kathy had the manager and all the staff she could collect sign Anna's birthday card. Everyone was so nice and willing to participate in making our gift for Anna happen."
Alaina took pictures of Annabelle and Anna together and another of Annabelle with a "Happy Birthday" sign. She had a photo collage made of all the pictures and framed it as a gift for Anna from Annabelle.
"I thought it would be a nice memory she could have of her 7th birthday 'wish.' Anna was very appreciative of all the gifts she received, including many wrapped canned goods," Alaina wrote. "It comforts my heart to know the values our children take to heart and wish to share with others."
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Brian Simerson from the Thomas Judd Care Center at Munson Medical Center wrote on behalf of the Northern Michigan AIDS Walk to thank corporate sponsors Charter Communication, The Cook's House, Munson Medical Center, JenTees, the Grand Traverse Insider, Side Traxx and Walgreens, and acknowledge and thank the walkers, donors and volunteers.
"We are pleased to announce that more than $10,000 was raised this year, despite turbulent economic times," Brian wrote. "A special thank you to the walkers and entertainment provided by Interlochen Center for the Arts, to Ron Getz and Ron Hernandez for providing music, and all the donors of the silent auctions and beach party.
Brian also sends a special thank you to Brian and the gang at ABC Warehouse for their prize donations.
Brian went on to congratulate and recognize Jerri Lynn Decker, recipient of the Thomas Judd Care Center Volunteer of the Year Award.
"Again, we thank everyone for their support and hope to see even more next year at the Northern Michigan AIDS Walk," Brian wrote.
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