WinterFest 2026 Honored Citizen Announced: Share Your Dreewes Testimonials

Dr. Miriam Dreewes of Hometown Animal Hospital and her staff are the 2026 Deer Park WinterFest Honored Citizen/Organization for their dedication to the community. We invite those who know them to submit positive stories and testimony via the form to be featured in the official Deer Park Gazette article.

2026 WinterFest Honored Citizen/Organization is veterinarian Dr. Miriam Dreewes and staff, who are being recognized for exceptional service at Deer Park’s Hometown Animal Hospital. The recognition, announced by the WinterFest Committee, honors Dr. Dreewes for her profound and often unnoticed commitment to the community’s pets through dedicated practice and animal rescue efforts right here in Deer Park. The official honor will be presented at the opening ceremony on January 17th.

The selection of Dr. Dreewes and her team at Hometown Animal Hospital was based on a nomination highlighting their constant willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty. The community’s generous feedback is now being sought to help celebrate this dedication. The Deer Park Gazette is asking residents who have been positively affected by Dr. Dreewes and her staff to share their uplifting stories, photos, and thank-you notes. Selected stories will be incorporated into the final feature article. Please use the Form below to submit your memories:

Dr. Miriam Dreewes, Hometown Animal Hospital, WinterFest 2026

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New Midway Market Opens Along Highway 395

July 31, 2026

Shoppers traveling along the Highway 395 corridor now have a new grocery and fueling option in Colbert following the soft launch of Midway Market last weekend. The 18,000-square-foot facility houses ten specialty departments, including an artisan bakery, full-service meat counter, and an on-site coffee roastery. Management is preparing for an official grand opening event on August 5 to showcase the full operation to the community.

In Memory of Don/Donnie Gilmore

July 18, 2026

Donald “Donnie” Eugene Gilmore of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on June 12, 2026, at the age of 73. He was born in Spokane, Washington, on August 22, 1952. In 1973, Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty for two years. In 1983, he graduated with a degree in education from Eastern Washington University. Don was a beloved teacher at Springdale Elementary for 25 years. He even got to teach his two sons when they were in the fifth grade (much to their chagrin!). He retired in 2015. Don was married to Denise
Wurz (Lesmeister) from 1983 to 1995.

US 395 Lanes Reopened After Collision Near Monroe Road

June 16, 2026

A traffic collision at the intersection of North US Highway 395 and West Monroe Road temporarily blocked northbound traffic. Emergency crews, including multiple fire units and ambulances, responded to the scene to treat individuals and manage traffic flow. All lanes have since been cleared and reopened to regular traffic.

Roberta Anne Cade

June 12, 2026

Roberta A. Cade, 81, of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on April 19, 2026. Roberta was the oldest of eight siblings, a role she carried with strength, care, and a deep sense of responsibility throughout her life. She will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and for giving so freely to her friends and family.

Deer Park Kicks Off Summer With Packed Weekend

June 12, 2026

Deer Park area residents can look forward to a busy weekend filled with community events, fundraisers, and live entertainment starting this Friday. Activities ranging from a downtown block party to a charity golf tournament offer something for every member of the family. The multi-day lineup includes local businesses, musicians, and charitable organizations working together to welcome the summer season.

Luitgard Margrete Griffin

June 8, 2026

One of a kind is what most people stated about Luitgard (Margaret), and that is truly what she was! She was born in Bamberg, Germany, to Johann and Betty Wagner, as the second child. She had an older brother, Hans, and a younger sister, Elfriede.

Luitgard was trained as a seamstress in school and worked making men’s suits, among other things. She met the love of her life, Albert Leroy Griffin, in 1951, and they were married on December 6th, 1952.

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Honoring Heart At Hometown Animal Hospital

Hometown Animal Hospital has been named the 2026 Winterfest Honored Organization, in recognition of years of compassionate service that extends far beyond veterinary care. From rescuing overlooked animals to supporting local events and businesses, the clinic is making a profound impact on the community.

January 15, 2026

WinterFest 2026: Sign-Ups Open and Activities Announced

The Deer Park Kiwanis and the WinterFest Committee are finalizing preparations for the annual WinterFest 2026 celebration. The essential sign-up forms for vendors and competitors are included within this article for easy access. The extensive lineup includes sports tournaments, crafts, entertainment, and the popular Outhouse Races, offering something for every age group.

December 9, 2025

Deer Park