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Hutch Holiday Gala to honor 2006 Community Service awardees Larry and Vickie Culver

Vickie and Larry Culver, owners of the Residence Inn by Marriott, work to foster a supportive environment for guests who are cancer patients and families. Photo by Melanie Blair Photography

Amid the glow of the Hutch Holiday Gala, the Center's Grace Heffernan Arnold Guild will present its 2006 Distinguished Community Service Award to Larry and Vickie Culver, the caring proprietors of an inn that serves as home away from home for many cancer patients and their families.

The annual award recognizes an individual or organization providing exceptional support in the fight against cancer. Rather than monetary support, the selection focuses on the honorees' commitment and dedication to making a difference through personal interaction and involvement.

Larry Culver, who founded Inn Ventures Inc., in 1982, owns the Residence Inn by Marriott — Seattle Downtown/Lake Union. Located adjacent to the Hutchinson Center, the hotel often houses patients undergoing cancer treatment. Culver feels strongly about fostering a supportive environment for these special-needs guests.

"Vickie and I are honored to accept this award, not only on our own behalf but in recognition of the compassionate actions of our employees," Culver said. "We feel that these practices start at the top of an organization, whether it's a big corporation or a group of hotels. If we take the lead and demonstrate that we have time to help, our management and team members follow suit."

Those who work in hospitality are fortunate to have multiple opportunities to exceed expectations in serving others, Culver said. "It's part of the culture of what we do; working with patients and families has become a key part of our lives. Literally hundreds of stories affect the policies of our hotel and how we do business."

Culver recalled a long-term hotel guest whose brother had received a bone-marrow transplant at the Center. "Unfortunately, her brother didn't make it, but after his death she wrote us a beautiful four-page letter listing — by name — at least 30 employees who had a positive effect during this very difficult time of her life. Gestures like hers show us we can ease the pain of these families, as well as share the joy of those whose treatments result in restored life and hope."

Culver earned his degree in business and hotel administration from Washington State University. He volunteers for organizations and institutions including WSU, the Hutchinson Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Childhaven and Northwest Harvest. His wife, Vickie, is a graduate of the University of Kansas education program; her community involvement includes support of WSU's College of Education and the Overlake Service League.

The 31st annual Hutch Holiday Gala will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel & Towers. The Gala is a black-tie event featuring spectacular live and silent auctions, an elegant dinner and late-night dancing with more than 850 business and community leaders in attendance. It is the largest fund-raiser benefiting the Center; last year, the event generated $7.7 million through private contributions. The 31st annual Hutch Holiday Gala is sold out, but for more information or to make a contribution, call (206) 667-5423 or visit www.hutchgala.com.

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