Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/776310
63 www.thunderpress.net THUNDER PRESS nFebruary 2017n the post offi ce—they will deliver the goods regardless of rain, sleet or snow. This promise was put to the test this year because we were hit by the snowpocolypse two days prior to the event. This storm essentially shut the Metro area down, and it was ques- tionable if you could even get out of your driveway, let alone down the hills that surround the city. However, it was soon clear on deliv- ery day that this storm was not going to ruin the party. Slowly, one by one, bikes and riders arrived with teddy bears in tow to Heidi's warm and inviting shop. Hot coffee and tasty doughnuts that even the diabetic dude said were too good to pass up fortifi ed the cold elves. Home bakers arrived with tins brimming with fresh-baked cookies for the staff of the assisted living facility. No one was going to be left out during this day of celebration. Vancouver members of the Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA) were also on hand to assist with loading up the goods this year. A jolly polar bear arrived, giving the event participants that little extra support needed to get back outside in the below-freezing temps to load up the vast amount of donations. Soon a fi re brigade of bikers lined the parking lot as Lisa's Thunder Mountain Motorcycle Rescue enclosed travel trailer was packed to the brim with gifts. With the last sparkling bag of goodness secured, bikers fi red up their ponies to begin the wagon train set- ting out to deliver the goods at the Ft. Vancouver Assisted Living Facility. First stop was in the rehabilitation por- tion of the facility where choir mem- bers from the Living Hope Church in Vancouver joined leather-clad volun- teers in spreading cheer. Volunteers went through the facility handing out socks, blankets and teddy bears. One spunky patient named Dolores thanked her hulking elf as he handed her some soft goodies from his bag. As the group prepared to exit this portion of the facility, Dolores reappeared, hap- pily modeling her turquoise goodies that perfectly matched her sparkling blue eyes. It was a positive moment for this writer, because after a trying year it was wonderful to enjoy the small and simple pleasure of a little human connection with this kind and happy stranger. Next, the group travelled to the assisted living portion of Ft. Vancouver where partygoers were eagerly awaiting the arrival of Santa's helpers. Multiple staff commented that the seniors were concerned that the party would be cancelled due to the snow and ice. Staff nurse Sarah stated the seniors really look forward to this event each year; it is a real highlight of their holiday season. Event participants agreed with this sentiment as well, as folks shared their stories of Christmas past and some of the residents they had befriended over the years. Once every- one was settled in, Top, the grand mas- ter of the event, donned his black and gold Santa hat and thanked everyone for welcoming his motley crew into their home for nearly two decades. The anticipation was palpable as Top gath- ered his elves and the piles of pack- ages were organized for delivery. With a commanding voice, he read off the names of gift recipients and the excite- ment grew. One by one, bikers scurried through the large lunchroom with bags in tow meeting their adopted senior for this holiday season. Thanks to Heidi and Lisa's detailed lists of personal recommendations, each senior was assured they would receive a mean- ingful gift that was as special as they are. No re-gifted candles here. Rather, each senior received items like fuzzy fl annels in just the right size or a new robe in their favorite color. Gifts sets of luxurious lotions were a hit with the ladies. My friend Edith, a sassy gal I met last year, was pleased to see me again and stated she was very satis- fi ed with the selection of comedy and romantic movies she received. David, her lunch partner for the day, was pleased to report he received several new mystery books and was looking forward to diving into one after lunch. Smiles abounded as bikers and seniors enjoyed this special time together. Returning volunteers took the time to check in with past partygoers to see how they were doing. To even a casual observer, it was evident that this event meant more to the seniors and the biker elves than just providing their new friends with material items. This was a chance for folks to slow things down a little bit and take the time to have a special human connection. Truly, this was a Christmas for all. 4 Ft. Vancouver resident Edith A shares some holiday cheer with Santa's helper Karl Despite snow and ice, dozens of volunteers braved the weather ensure Santa's gifts were distributed on time Stanley (L) and Patriot Guard rider Geno share gifts, smiles and stories during the lunch- time event Christmas for all Continued from page 52