special to The Star



It was a cold and dreary day on December 13, 2008 and I had a case of the Christmas blahs. Then my windows began to rattle. I stepped outside to see what was going on. I just had to smile, there was Santa going up my street! But there were no reindeer, he was being escorted by about forty motorcycles. I waved and all of the elves smiled and waved back. In spite of the cold they seemed to be enjoying themselves.

The elves were as varied as their bikes. There seemed to be no racial or gender bias with this group.

I just had to find out more about these folks who had made me smile. After a couple of phone calls I spoke with Mr. Jeff Peters at Meridian Yamaha He told met that the elves were ABATE of Mississippi members (American Bikers Active Toward Education). They were on an annual Toy Run for Cans for Kids and that if I wanted more information I should talk to Mr. Gary Turbville and he would call me back with his telephone number. He was as good as his word and called me back the next day.

So I called Mr. Turbville and ask if could answer a few questions, he was very gracious and gave me all kinds of information. He started Cans for Kids in 1995. It is exactly what it sounds like. They collect aluminum cans and sell them to benefit children and their families in Lauderdale County.

They are a non profit organization. They have nine board members, none of whom receive a salary, so all donations go to those in need in the local area. If a child needs shoes they take them to purchase them, if they need groceries they take them to the store, the same is true of utilities. Mr. Turbrville said he could not stand the thought of a child being hungry or cold. They help as many children and families as possible. Last year that was about one hundred and thirty. Also last year they raised about twenty three thousand dollars with no additional funding from outside agencies. This is not a seasonal thing, it goes on all year round.

Mr. Turbville organized the Toy Run and maps out the route. This is their third year. There were three bike clubs involved this year and sorry but I did not get the club names, but you know who you are, and if anyone knows any of these wonderful elves give them a pat on the back or a hug. Also, thanks to Pat Gray Santa had a place to hand out his toys.

Again thanks to all for making me smile, I can only imagine the smiles on the faces of the Children.