Georgia Johnson: Theives couldn’t steal Christmas joy
Either Sunday evening Dec. 13 or early Dec. 14, persons unknown broke into the back service porch at the Bloss Home Museum. Because the annual Christmas Play was just ending, we had stored a barrel on the porch that was to be used for a combined toy drive by the Atwater Kops & Fire 4 Kids and the Toys 4 Tots Foundation. There were already a few toys in the barrel. Besides the damage to this treasured building, it was a bummer that someone would take the toys.
Greg McDaniel, a Director for the historical society, posted this event on Facebook and with in less than 24 hours we had received donations equaling $2,000 to purchase toys for the children. Our deepest graditude to Ed Lujano and Sandie Cook from the Castle Family Health Center and Bloss Memorial Healthcare District along with the Merced Elks Lodge No. 1240, represented by John and Filly Cale. Their generosity allowed many, many children to have a great Christmas. Also we have received offers of help to repair the damage to the house.
We wish all a very Happy New Year and thank you for all that you do for the community.
Georgia Johnson, President, Atwater Historical Society, Inc.
This story was originally published January 4, 2016 at 1:45 PM with the headline "Georgia Johnson: Theives couldn’t steal Christmas joy."