Giving to DARE is a Tradition

Robin and Doug Timm and the couple’s mascot kick off their annual DARE Christmas tree program at Country Gardens in conjunction with the Kent Police Department represented by Officer Darren Cea and Detective Kevin Owens. ERIC GROSS The spirit of giving is evident this week in Lake Carmel.

Doug and Robin Timm, proprietors of Country Gardens on Route 52, in the former Lloyd Lumber Building, are once again assisting children in the Carmel School District by donating to DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education.)

Last week, during a press conference attended by members of the Kent Police Department, the couple announced its annual fund raising campaign for the anti-drug education program.

For each holiday tree sold this season, the Timms will donate $1 to the program that teaches children to remain substance-abuse-free.

Doug Timm called the tradition “my family’s gift to our community. Over the years we have contributed thousands of dollars, but it goes to a great cause and benefits our next generation.”

Detective Kevin Owens, who serves as one of two DARE instructors at the George Fischer Middle School along with Officer Tara Flynn, commended Doug and Robin Timm for their community involvement: “We are fortunate to have people like the Timms, who truly are interested in the welfare of children residing in Carmel, Kent, Patterson, and Stormville. They step forward each year and present us with a substantial donation, which goes a long way towards purchasing supplies and materials needed for the program.”

Darren Cea, an officer with the Kent PD who begins his third year on the force next month, is a graduate of the Carmel School District.

Officer Cea remembered the days when he was enrolled in the DARE course taught by retired Kent Police Detective and Kent Town Justiceelect Kevin Douchkoff: “The curriculum left me with a lasting impression, knowing the severe damage alcohol and drugs can do on the human body. Now, as a member of the police force, I am giving back to the community that gave to me. I grew up here. I went to school here. Now it’s my turn to pay back to today’s young people by doing everything I can to keep kids free from drugs and alcohol.”

Last year, a check for $1,350 was turned over to the DARE program by the nursery and this year’s 10th anniversary of the tree benefit will hopefully top that number, since 1,600 trees are for sale, ranging from twofooters to 14-foot beauties.

The nursery is open seven days a week from 10am to 8pm, and can be reached by calling 228-9170.

This weekend Santa will visit with hot cider and other refreshments being served free of charge.