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The 13th Annual Nevada County Toy Run 2004 Doubles Attendance Expectations!
Last year, I remember the rain beating down under the gray clouds above, as biker’s approached the gates of Nevada County Fairgrounds, soaking wet, one by one, in a line of blurred white lights and fog. And as it has been for many years, rain had been an uninvited guest of this toy run and the spirited bikers who came anyway and chose to ignore Mother Nature’s deterrent.
I woke up Saturday morning prepared to dress for cool weather, layering sweaters, warm socks, boots and leathers. But this December 11th, Mother Nature seemed to smile down on Thom Staser (CEO of the run) and the coordinators of this event, which consisted of many. The day was sunny and there seemed to be no rain in sight. I grabbed a quick cup of coffee and headed for the Rood Center, where Santa and his cycle elf’s dressed their sleighs with Christmas garland, bows, and most importantly, toys bungeed one on top of the other as they prepared to fly past rooftops of the quaint old towns, Nevada City and Grass Valley.
Texas Choppers and Santa’s Sleigh make a big hit
I spoke to many bikers who look forward to this annual event and vow to show up rain or shine. Last year the count was 511, even with stormy winds and rain. Today however, Mother Nature surprised us with a gorgeous day. Volunteers served a free continental breakfast as the many bikers rolled in and began to fill the parking lot with a multitude of different bikes, trikes, sidecars and choppers. Dennis Cuva and wife, Sandy made quite a hit when they pulled up in a shiny green Texas Chopper, personally autographed by Arlen Ness himself. Santa’s arrival is always a sight to see and is the major attraction of the day.
Adults and children alike lined the historical streets of these old mining towns, while waiting in anticipation for the Christmas Motorcycle Parade. I left the Rood Center and headed for Nevada City. As I came down the hill, I could see the white steeple peeping through the tall pine trees from the church portrayed on postcards. I found a suitable place at the bottom of Broad Street where all the bikes would soon come down the hilly narrow street toward all the town folk who waited patiently.
Quaint Mining Towns give bikers an awesome ride
I climbed the stairs of the old National Hotel, built in the 1800’s and stood on the Balcony overlooking the little hat shops, furriers, taverns and candy stores. The decorated street adorned with garland, lights and old street lamps offering any visitor a vision into the past. And as usual, I always get a little misty eyed and overwhelmed when I am a part of something so beautifully quaint and historical.
For a moment, I imagined the pounding sound of the old miners and likened it to the sound we would soon hear, as the (approximately) 1400 bikers would come rumbling through town. There was a group of middle-aged women dressed in red, standing (and very appropriately) in front of the “Mine Shaft” as they seemed to be very relaxed and cheery (if you knows what I mean!). They were seriously Hootin and Hallorin as their fantasy biker rode by. I giggled as I watched them delight in the mass male testosterone passing them by much too quickly, and took a quick picture. I agreed with them. It was surely an awesome sight to see.
Thousands of people wait in long lines to give
Once I arrived at Nevada County Fairgrounds, I walked through an entrance that was actually the exit. I am not a person to break rules, but there were hundreds of people dropping off their toys, with tons of traffic, and I still had another event to cover, so I walked though what looked much like Santa’s workshop. I have never seen so many toys in one place. I stopped to chat with Santa and talk to a few of the kids.
I looked at the crowd, and thought for a moment…something felt odd. Finally it hit me. Hundreds of people stood in line patiently, smiles on their faces, chatting comfortably with each other. I heard no one complaining. Everyone was cheerful and the masses got along. Generally you’ll see hundreds of people waiting in lines to receive something or get something, and they definitely get annoyed. But here they were…hundreds of people…waiting patiently. I know for myself, I would do anything to avoid long lines for any reason….cheap gas….special sales…or even freebee’s. But here were hundreds of people standing in lines to “GIVE” and not to receive. That was very moving to me.
Many wonderful volunteers helping kids and families
Once the lines of people went through and all toys were dropped off, I took a moment to talk with Santa and a few of the Volunteers who were preparing for the grand entrance of the children who’s dreams would be fulfilled as they would be allowed to choose the gifts they most desired.
A couple of beautiful young volunteers, Asia Hoffman, 13 years old and Ashley Hoffman 11, both from Auburn, work as escorts and behind the counters, helping the kids pick out their toys. Both girls have volunteered for about two years. When asked why they were involved with this event, both agreed they enjoyed helping people and they said, “My mom is a very important volunteer”. (I am sure she has set an excellent example). Each family gets a Christmas Turkey, a 10 lb bag of potatoes and canned goods. Each child receives at least 3 toys and that can vary depending on the amount of toys given.
Benefactors
The Nevada County Food & Toy Run benefits many families and children directly during this annual bike run in December. Other service organizations that receive assistance throughout the year from these wonderful people include: Headstart, Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Ladies Relief Fund.
Governor Schwarzenegger invited to attend
Founder and C.E.O. Thom Staser, joined by Vice-President Chris Heller and C.F.O. Jim Medlock, are planning a major undertaking for August of 2005. Each year more important City and County Officials become involved with this very important event. This year, Governor Schwarzenegger was invited, but was unable to attend. My hope is, that this article, other articles that are written by fellow writers and many letters reach the Governor’s desk. Most importantly the kids of Nevada County along with the volunteers and leaders of the community hope our wishes are heard and somehow reach his heart. His presence would be a gift to all involved.
Quick Throttle thanks all those people involved…the coordinators…the bikers and passengers…the volunteers and Thom for always taking a moment to talk with me, as it was an honor to be part of such a well managed charitable event.
~Written and Photographed by: Annie Taranto-La Plante
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