Opportunities abound to donate toys or bikes to needy children

by Kim Riggs

Christmas will be brighter for some Carson City youngsters through the gift project sponsored by Everyone Loves a Fire Fighter - or ELFF.

These men put most of us die-hard shoppers to shame. Not only do they get toys, but they also purchase warm clothing and shoes. To support the annual shopping spree, call or drop off a new, unwrapped toy at any fire station.

Speaking of a really nice fireman, I talked to Ken Engles, who helps make Christmas brighter for children. Julie Shine had asked where she could donate a bike to a child. At Fire Station No. 2, Ken would love to refurbish some bicycles for the Toys for Joys program. However, he doesn't have much time, but if it's a flat tire or just needs very minor repairs, Ken said it's no problem.

I also received an e-mail from the owner of Realty Executives, Chick James, who is helping the Toys for Tots program. Chick has three locations for you to drop off a new, unwrapped toy.

This year, the program is run by The Ron Wood Family Resource Center and by Hispanic Services.

The Children's Museum's Santa Day is Saturday with crafts and Polaroid pictures taken with Santa from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for $2 per picture. On Dec. 7, 9, 16 and 17, parents can have their children videotaped talking with Santa for $10.

Greenhouse Garden Center not only has beautifully decorated trees, but Saturday, it will have the Douglas High Jazz Band playing Christmas selections starting at 1 p.m.

Santa will also be available.

OUT & About

What: ELFF toy collection and bicycle give-back program

Where: Carson City Fire Department, 777 S. Stewart St.

When: Anytime

Call: 887-2210

Proceeds benefit: Toys for Joys at Salvation Army 887-9120, Vi Bibee

What: Toys for Tots collection

When: through Dec. 24

Where: Toys can be dropped off at 1071 S. Carson St., 1208 E. William St. and 1644 Highway 395, Minden

Call: Chick James, Realty Executive of Carson City, 885-7653. For information on toy applications, call Ron Wood Family Resource Center at 884-2269 or Hispanic Services at 885-1055.

What: Photos and videos with Santa

Where: Children Museum of Northern Nevada, 813 N. Carson

When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday for crafts and photos; December 7, 9, 16, 17 videotaping

Call: 884-2226

What: Greenhouse Garden Center's annual Christmas open house featuring the Douglas High Jazz Band

When: Saturday; the band will start at 1 p.m.

Where: Greenhouse Garden Center, 2450 S. Curry St.

Call: 882-8600

Next week: I will answer an e-mail from Terri Martin concerning information about the Carson City Sheriff's Santa Patrol and how you can help the Eagle Valley Children's Home.

If you would like your information to be included or if you have a questions, please e-mail me at kimriggs@att.net.