Bikes for Tykes

Not really. They were full sized bicycles, 20 of them, each equipped with a lock and a helmet, and they were donated to the Fire Department’s Toys for Tots campaign as part of the Merchants’ Block Party on December 1st. On an evening that had revelers going from shop to shop to see what was new for the season, Gary McLain of Marlena’s once again engineered a donation for the kids. Part of Fostering a Safe and Caring Holiday Season was the 2nd annual Sing-Along at Patricia’s Green in Hayes Valley, held in conjunction with the Block Party. There was caroling from kids from throughout the neighborhood, as well as hot chocolate, cookies and other goodies set up by the Hayes Valley Community Partners. There were also information tables about local issues, including one on emergency services from NERT. This is particularly appropriate, because Patricia’s Green is one of the designated meeting places in case of emergency.

Also participating in the event again this year was the Fire Department, with donation bins on the Green and a truck on Hayes Street. They were thrilled to have such a large, and meaningful, donation, even if it did fill up the truck! The donation was made possible by Marlena’s, and Gary credited Kathy Lambert for her efforts on behalf of the SFFD Toys for Tots. Thank you’s go out to Costco, Blow Buddies, Friends of Marlena’s, and the Reigning Emperor and Empress of San Francisco. And, once again, to Gary McLain for continuing his annual donation on behalf of our youngsters.