History
Who would have ever thought that a small town like Port Alberni could hold such a large event as the Toy Run has become.
Many years have passed and we would like to thank past Toy Run members, all merchants who donated to the cause and most of all, to all the riders who came out rain or shine or snow to participate and made it the success it has become (for if not for them the Toy Run would not have come into existence in the valley).
In the pages to follow, the history of the Toy Run will unfold - starting with the very first Toy Run of Port Alberni to present day.
A few people got together one day and decided that if other motorcyclists can make kids happy, why don't we do the same. So, with the help of some of our local merchants and the support from the Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) and the Salvation Army, it all came together.
There were twenty five riders and half as many passengers who escorted more than forty individual toys from the Alberni Mall to the 1st Arrowsmith Scout Hall on Montrose Street. The riders were escorted through town by the local R.C.M.P. With open arms by the Salvation Army, the toys were welcomed by Lt. Denny Fahrentholz. We had a little bit of snow for the ride into town but all things went well. There was chilli and coffee for the riders after the run.
40 toys to the Salvation Army.
In the second year, the same bunch of good natured people along with a few enthusiastic newcomers started plans early in the year to get more activities happening. We decided to make the ride a little more scenic by starting the run from the rest stop in Cathedral Grove. The route from the Grove took us down Johnston Street to Gertrude Street/Stamp Avenue/3rd Avenue to Kingsway and around the water fountain at Harbour Quay then up Argyle Street to 10th Avenue where the run ended at the Fall Fair grounds and let the fun begin. This route would become the well-known route of Toy Runs to come.
What a warm welcome each rider received as they lined up for the start of the run. The West Coast Rangers (Black Powder Club) was on hand to serve coffee, hot chocolate and homemade cookies to all that attended.
With 65 riders and their toys, the R.C.M.P. escorted them through town to the Kin Hut. Even though the ground was wet from rain earlier on that day, the sun was shining over us as the kids and adult bike games took place. Everyone had a chance to "Bath the Biker" in the dunk tank, the Salvation Army van was there to pick up the some 400 toys to go to the needy children at Christmas time. After all the days events were finished, the adults danced the night away with music by the "Tourist".
400 toys to the Salvation Army.
It was a beautiful day in Port Alberni when more than a hundred and twenty riders did their run all over again. All enthusiasts of every make, model of motorcycle arrived at Cathedral Grove. They were welcomed by the Black Powder Club with coffee, hot chocolate, homemade cookies and fresh donuts (from the Donut Shop).
The sun shone brightly on the bikers parade as they all proceeded en route to Port Alberni (with the R.C.M.P. as escorts). There were people all along the route through town cheering on the warm hearted bikers bearing Christmas gifts for the need children of Port Aberni. As everyone arrived at the Fall Fair grounds they were greeted by the Salvation Army band playing "Warriors True".
As everyone got settled into the Kin Hut. filling their bellies with hot dogs, bowls of chili and liquid refreshments, they found ways to warm the chilled bodies.
The entertainment started with the Clown College playing games of all sorts with the children, painting faces and making balloon animals. Once the kids were happy, the adults started their bike games, ranging from the dart/hoop/ball toss, plank and pylon run to the basketball and flag drop. After all the games were finished, presentations were made, toys were loaded into the Salvation Army van and all those who stood about with a grin from ear to ear, applauded to the great success they had that year. We more than doubled in every aspect of the run, especially the warm hearted participants and merchants.
As the day's events cane to an end the kids went home full of food, goodies and lots of prizes. The adults dance to the wee hours of the night to some local musical talent. With the night coming to an end, some people moved on for last call at many of the local drinking establishments. Most of the bikers took advantage of the bike security available at the Kin Hut and the Somass Hotel.
The next morning the doors opened to a sausage and pancake breakfast sponsored by Hertel Meats. Everyone mingled around the various swap tables that ranged from new and used bike parts to local crafts.
375 toys to the Salvation Army plus $1,225.87.
Due to certain circumstances the Jaycees disbanded and we be came independent and now call ourselves the P. A. Toy Run.
Although the rain was with us, 140 riders gathered at Cathedral Grove for the annual run for needy children. Upon reaching the Kin Hut everyone was ready for the bike games and the kids were ready for their games. Concession tables were available with things to be bought and swapped. In the evening, the adults danced to music by "Maloomba Boogie Band". On Sunday morning, there was the traditional pancake breakfast and swap meet.
- 300 toys to the Salvation Army plus $1,525.88
- $25.00 to Big Brothers of Port Alberni.
Due to the double booking of the Kin Hut, we had to look elsewhere to hold our event. With full cooperation by Peter Hudson, manager of the Greenwood Hotel, we were able to pull off the event without a hitch. But like all other toy Runs, it rained and we had to cancel the bike games. The kids games were brought indoors where the Clown College, with their inquisitive talents entertained the children with games, face painting and balloon sculpturing.
Presentations were made and pictures were taken with a special appearance by Gerard Janssen (our local MLA), which wasn't the first time he has joined us in our cause for needy children.
This year our music was done by the popular sounds of "No Secrets". The dance floor was packed with every song played, with the band receiving great reviews.
- 400 toys to the Salvation Army
- $2,175.00 to the Port Alberni Women's Resources Transition House to be used at Christmas time.
Like every other year the rain fell like clockwork, with the exception that it followed us into town instead of falling directly upon us. There was some hundred plus bikes and riders who participated in the run with very few getting involved with the bike games due to the weather.
"Rude Mood" supplied good rock'n'roll tunes for over 200 riders and local townspeople.
- 350 toys to the Salvation Army
- $4,000.00 to the W.C.G.H. children's ward which we bought a T.V., V.C.R. plus movies, books and a whole lot of toys
- $300.00 to the Special Olympics
- $75.00 to Big Brothers & Big Sisters
- $75.00 to the Parksville Toy Run
- $50.00 to the Variety Club Telethon
Saturday morning was bright and clear as over 300 bikes and riders gathered at Cathedral Grove for the 7th Annual Port Alberni Toy Run. The Black Powder Club was on hand (as they have in the past) with hot coffee and cake and cookies for all.
Mayor Gillian Trumper officially opened the days events and Santa Claus (MLA Gerard Janssen was taking time out from his vacation) to present the toys to Lt. Metcalf of the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army distribute the toys that we received from the bikers and non-bikers alike to the needy kids at Christmas time.
The bike games for the adults went off on schedule and the kids' afternoon was filled with fun and laughter in a carnival atmosphere.
Sunday morning the Shriners were serving their usual tasty sausage and pancake breakfast. After breakfast the poker run got underway for a relaxing ride out to Taylor Flats and back to town ending at the Arlington Hotel.
- 450 toys to the Salvation Army
- $5,000.00 to the Outreach Therapy Program
- $500.00 to the Katy Crosby Fund (Save-A-Life Foundation)
- $240.00 to the Rollin Art Center
- $200.00 to the Big Brothers & Sisters
- $50.00 to the Parksville Toy Run.
Once again the Toy Run drew participants from near and far, but numbers were slightly down this time due to similar events scheduled for the same weekend. More than 200 motorcycles took part and they couldn't have asked for better weather.
The ride began where riders met - in MacMillan Bloedel's Scenic Cathedral Grove. The old growth forest region flanks either side of Hi-way #4 in central Vancouver Island and provides a breathtaking start to the 15 minute ride into Port Alberni. While organizing for the mass start, participants were treated to hot chocolate, coffee and freshly baked goodies by the members of the Black Powder Club.
Alberni District MLA Gerard Janssen, dressed as Santa, led the pack out of the grove and over the long hill call "The Hump" by locals of the Alberni Valley. Upon arriving in town, riders were greeted by people all along their route who waved, clapped and cheered them on. The R.C.M.P. did an excellent job of escorting and controlling traffic.
The bikes paraded through town to the Harbour Quay where a very large crowd had gathered to watch the procession wind around the stone fountain and snake back up the road and over to the event's new destination - the Athletic Hall.
Hot dogs, chili, buns, coffee and hot chocolate were served at the hall to all who attended. Presentations were made by the community's often called Master of Ceremonies "Mike Carter" (he is not the same Mr. Carter from near by Parksville's Old Dog's Hawgs).
The beer gardens opened for those who were still thirsty or had just had enough coffee. Inside the hall, the "Merry Andrew Marionettes" entertained the kids and the young at heart all day long with their elaborate puppet shows.
The terrain turned out to be a little too rough for the bike games but that will be remedied for next year. There were plenty of door prizes handed out, all donated by local merchants who have enabled the annual Toy Run to continue through their spontaneous and generous contributions. After a short break, preparations for the evening's entertainment began. Vancouver based band "Incognito" played excellent tunes to a full house that really knew how to party. The tradition for trouble-free Toy Run celebration in Port Alberni held true again this year. The committee and local law enforcers and the citizens of the Alberni Valley were shown once again what a great bunch of people we truly are.
The following morning, a hearty breakfast consisting of hot cakes, eggs and sausages cooked up by the Shriners. As only two bikes showed up for the poker run, both rode away with all the prizes.
- 300 toys plus $1600.00 in gift certificates and toys distributed by the Home Support Association
- $3,556.00 to the Home Support Association to purchase a special lift that enables workers to better care for bed-ridden and disabled patients and to acquire camping gear to take troubled children on outings
- $220.00 to Big Brothers & Sisters
- $100.00 to the Boy Scouts
- $1,500 to the Bread Of Life
- $500.00 to the Salvation Army Christmas Relief Program
- $500.00 to the Marry Andrew Marionettes
It was a bright day and unseasonably warm as about 300 bikes, their riders and passengers met on a Saturday late in September. Many visitors having made the trek from points east , enjoying the added bonus of the ride down Highway #4 from Parksville. The parking lot in MacMillan Bloedel's old growth forest preserve known as Cathedral Grove barely accommodated everyone.
The ride started out with the 12 mile trip over "The Hump", as locals refer to the mountain pass, and down into the valley. A K.V.O.S. -TV crew was part of the parade with their Kid Stuff van.
This was the Ninth Annual Toy Run and the non-riding residents of the community have really begun to show support and enthusiasm. Nothing make a ride more meaningful to riders than the sight of parents and kids crowded along the route. They came out to hear the combined thunder of Hondas, Harleys and scooters and to see the once-a-year sight of bikes as far as the eye can see. Small children have learned that if you've been very good and you watch carefully at the beginning of the parade you can catch a glimpse of a special visitor from the far north. It is none other than Motorcyclist MLA of the Alberni/Clayoquot riding, Gerard Janssen, dressed as Santa Claus.
The Harbour Quay with its circular drive lends itself well to the convoy of bikes as it snakes around the fountain and back up through the downtown area.
The Port Alberni business community responded overwhelmingly and at the end of the ride, the hall filled with toys. Donations of money flowed freely. Various charities around the community benefited from the proceeds.
The Merry Andrew Marionettes provided part of the children's entertainment and the bike games drew a good response from the adults. It takes a lot of skill to maneuver the bikes through the course while at the same times tossing rings, balls and darts. Only the true riders score well and end the course with a healthy push of the barrel.
A great time was had by all at the dance that night. The band, "Flashback" and liquid refreshments combined to make a safe and lively celebration. Meanwhile, the Merry Andrew Marionettes performed at Echo Village for the elderly of Port Alberni.
The traditional pancake breakfast by the Shriners and a poker run to Taylor Flats and back to the Arlington Hotel rounded off the festivities for 1993.
- 400 toys plus $3,144.76 certificates and toys.
- $7,001.00 to the Hilton Center
- $100.00 to Perinatal Seminar
- $4,034.74 to the Bread of Life
- $200.00 to the Boy Scouts to replace stolen camping equipment
- $250.00 to the Big Brothers & Sisters
- $54.53 for helium balloons
- $1,800.00 to the Merry Andrew Marionettes
- $50.00 to the Parksville Toy Run
- $100.00 for appreciation day for our meat draw participants.
They started to gather at Cathedral Grove when they could still see their breath. By the time the sun started to peak through the trees, it was time to start the journey over "The Hump" and around the Quay.
It was 1994 and the event was the 10th Anniversary of the Port Alberni Toy Run.
The riders came from far and wide, so far even Santa came to lead the pack. (Our own MLA Gerard Janssen).
On their way down the road, the side lines are filled with spectators hoping to hear the thunder and see motorcycles of every make, size, color and shape. Children and adults both opened mouthed and wide-eyed.
Thanks to the generosity of the business community, donations of toys and money made it possible for the need children of Port Alberni to have a Merry Christmas.
When they reached the Athletic Hall, the doors were opened and the people came on in. There was free food and drink and lots of things to do and see.
For the kids, there was the "Mad Hatter" (Ray Parker), who put on a fabulous magic show. There were crafts and games and no child went home empty handed.
For the Adults - test your skills on your motorcycle. Games for single riders and for a little more fun a game for a duo to see who could bite the most wiener.
Later that night there was a dance. "Berry Cup Blooze" was the band and their popularity kept the dance floor full all night.
Meanwhile, at Echo Village, the "Mad Hatter" adjusted his act to suit the tastes of the elderly at Fir Park Village.
And the fun didn't stop there. Sunday, they started their day with a Shriners' breakfast and a Poker Run to Taylor Flats which ended at the Arlington Hotel.
- Toys and certificates $7105.89
- Hilton Center $12,000.00
- Navy League of Canada $800.00
- Kinettes $1,000.00
- G.A.M.P. $300.00
- Parksville Toy Run $300.00
- Big Brothers and Big Sisters $250.00
- 1st. Beaver Creek Boy Scouts $450.00
- Alberni Athletic Association $600.00
September 18 to 24 was dedicated as Toy Run week in Port Alberni. This was our second year. The week started out with three days at the Alberni Mall. We displayed bikes, trophies and toys that were donated in Memory of Al Williams and Mark Boxrud. We also had the local hospital display their plans for the new hospital. We had many of the locals visit our display.
The Toy Run committee would like to take this time to thank all those who donated to the Toy Run in memory of Al Williams, Mark Boxrud and John Clark. They will be dearly missed.
This was the 11th annual Toy Run, the weekend was excellent with more than 350 bikes participating in the ride through town.
The Black Powder Club was at Cathedral Grove with hot coffee and snacks for the riders. We had so many bikes at the Grove that traffic was down to one lane.
Many spectators lined the roadside - waving and cheering as the procession of bikes went by. On arriving at the Athletic Hall, the riders were piped in by the Army Cadets.
Refreshments and food were served along with a number of booths with wares for sale.
Trophies were awarded to the following people: Oldest Rider - Roy Richmond, Port Alberni; Farthest Rider - Colin Taylor, Australia; Oldest Bike - Denis Contreras, Port Alberni; Best American - Rob Boccalon; Best Japanese - Brian Walker; Best European - Bob Vanderweele, Lantzville; Best Trike - Don Johnson, Courtenay.
Ray Parker was on hand to entertain the kids with magic and balloons. We had the "Imagination Market" who kept the kids busy with hat making.
The evening saw the "Berry Cup Blooze" play to a packed house. The dance floor was never empty. Refreshments flowed and everyone had a good time.
Sunday morning, the local Shriners made pancakes and sausages for breakfast before the poker run got underway. This was the best turnouts for the Poker Run ever with 55 entries. The winning hand was a three of a kind.
- Aberni Valley Baseball Association $100.00
- Alberni Valley Wresting Club $100.00
- Big Brothers and Big Sisters $1,250.00
- Bread of Life $1,000.00
- Buzz the Fuzz $250.00
- Canadian Scottish Regimen $250.00
- Dry Grad $200.00
- Family Health Center $880.00
- Shriners $600.00
- Navy League of Canada $650.00
- Parksville Toy Run $200.00
- Skate Board Action Committee $1,000.00
- 1st. Beaver Creek Boy Scouts $262.50
- Women's Resources Center $506.09
- West Coast General Hospital New Kids Ward Trust Fund $9,000.00
As we gathered for yet another year's run, we saw many familar faces - riders that have come year after year to enjoy the weekend events.
The weekend started with the traditional meeting in Cathedral Grove for the run through town. The Black Powder Club was on hand with hot coffee and goodies for all the riders - and anyone who wished to stop and take in the amazing sight of all the bikes lining up in order for a smooth takeoff at the sound of the cannon. We had showers this year but cleared up as the minutes ticked by.
The FBI (Fanny Bay Inn) had a breakfast in which the money went to the Toy Run. Thank You Dave.
As all the riders rode throught town, there was many people lining the roads to take in the view of all the riders decked out in leather and carrying toys.
For the kids there was 'Brent and Woofie', and a few games for the kids to play. Everyone couldn't believe their eyes when they saw Elvis play to the crowd. Actually that was Stuart, another of our entertainment for the day.
The evening was danced away with music from Mallooba Boogie and Howie & the Hot Rods.
Congradulations to Brian Lathom for winning the Harley Rocker.
Sunday started out with the Shriner's pancake and sausage breakfast followed by the Poker Run.
- Aberni Valley Wresting Club $300
- Big Brothers & Big Sisters $250
- Bread of Life $100
- Crossfire Youth Ministry $500
- Dry Grad $300
- Family Health Center $100
- Jessica States Memorial $130
- K Mart Christmas gift Certificates $2000
- Navey League of Canada $800
- RS Foundation $20
- Teen Choir $400
- 1st. Beaver Creek Boy Scoots $100
- Zellers Christmas gift Certificates $200
- Parksville Toy Run $50
- West Coast General Hospital $9,199.73 (held in Trust in GIC)
They came in record numbers to Cathedral Grove for the 13th Annual Toy Run. Over 600 bikes showed up for this lucky numbered event. Even the weather was with us that day - the sun shone brightly overhead. We were directing one lane of traffic through the Grove. The run got underway by noon and we still had riders joining us. The ride was uneventful through town thanks to the volunteers of Ace Flagging. In the hall the kids entertainment got under way with “Kids World”. They had a fish pond, imagination table, magicians and volunteers walking the floor in costumes (which got really hot with the nice weather). There was popcorn and cotton candy that some of our future toy run members gave out for a donation. We also had the traditional chili and hot dogs plus a pot of beef barley soup on hand for the hungry riders and locals who attended. Larry Knutson, who had registration number 13 won a kids Harley Davidson jacket. In the raffle, third place (ceramic pig on a bike) went to June Blake of Port Alberni; second place (hand painting of a Harley by Sue Cocks) went to Mary Anne Fred of Port Alberni; first place (Harley Rocker made by ADSS Woodworking class) went to S. Jarvis also of Port Alberni. The mayor and Santa (A.K.A. Gerard Janssen) made opening speeches. On Sunday, the Shriners cooked breakfast for a record number. Meanwhile the Poker run got under way. Making their way though the five check stops - prizes were given out for high spade and low heart. Highest hand went to Lisa Stowell with four Kings for a grand prize of $410.
- AV. Wrestling Club $300
- ADSS Dry Grad $500
- Big Brothers & Big Sisters $400
- Bike Rodeo $105.83
- Bowl for Kids $100
- Bread of Life $1000
- Jessica States Memorial $256.50
- Navy League of Canada $500
- Royal Purple $1000
- Society of Organized Services $50
- Hilton Centre $1650 and $604.94
- Outreach Therapy $1650
- Family Health Center $400
- Arrowsmith Boy Scouts $100
- Beaver Creek Boy Scouts $100
(Dedicated in Loving Memory of Nana Rose)
This Toy Run was a special one in that aside from the 500 odd bikes hat rode, there were two weddings in the Grove as Lisa and Chris, Robin and Willie ( Toy Run members) tied the knot before hopping on their bikes for the ride through town to Glenwood Centre. Ace Flagging assured a smooth ride with Santa, aka MLA Gerald Janssen, leading the entourage until the last hundred yards when the Army Cadet's Pipe Band took over with their great parade past Glenwood into the parking lot. Mayor Gillian Trumper was on hand to greet everyone and kick off another year of festivities. There was a special presentation from the Eagle's Ladies Auxiliary as they had collected $1000 for our Christmas Fund. The Fanny Bay Inn presented the proceeds from their breakfast that Dave organizes every year for our riders coming from up Island. The weather co-operated as the food and drink was distributed and children's activities got under way. The ever popular fish pond, face painting booth, craft's table, balloon table and cotton candy booth were kept busy as the line-ups seemed to be never-ending. Raffle tickets went fast as did T-shirts, pins and magnets. The bike games were a great success as many riders competed for prizes. The judging of bikes saw many receive trophies as well. As the beer gardens and afternoon games wound down, we began setting up for the evening dance. Music by Howie and the Hot Rods and the Maloomba Boogie Band kept everyone on their feet. Lisa and Robyn, our two brides, tossed their bouquets during a break as the bands switched for another hour of great rock and roll. Our designated driver program worked well as Fir Park Village took care of that end for us, providing safe sober rides for those who chose to take advantage of this service. The raffle - 1st prize the traditional Harley Rocker, 2nd prize a beautiful print were won by Cheryl Hamilton and Sharon Lamontagne respectively. Both women are from Port Alberni. Other prizes were won by Norman Moore and Ron Dick, both men also from Port Alberni. The hope chest, built and donated by Nobby's Wooden Toys, was won by Bob Blair of Port Alberni. Sunday morning saw the Shriner's serving pancakes and coffee to many as they readied themselves for the day. The Poker Run, organized by Larry Rose, was a great success, with the highest hand taking home $640.. Many other prizes were handed out as riders checked in at the Arlington Hotel for the last goodbye to a wonderfully successful Toy Run.
- Total of $14,601.65
- A.V.Wrestlers $700
- Navy League $650
- Bread of Life $1000
- Shriners $750
- Fir Park Village $250
- Big Brothers and Sisters $300
- Citizen's Advocacy $75
- Crossfire Youth $250
- P. A. Community Kitchens $50
- Rainbows $1000
- Outreach Therapy $4000
- Hospital in Trust $3500
- Crisis Line $50
- Boy Scouts $1000
- A.V.Minor Softball $500
- Bike Rodeo $125
- Dry Grad $300
- RCMP Gateway to Safety $101.65
1999 was another successful Toy Run, and being our 15th anniversary, it was special to us. There was a record number of bikes - so much so, that we lost count somewhere over the 500 mark. We had our usual parade, headed by Gerald Janssen, watched over by Ace Flagging, and enjoyed by many onlookers. The sight around Harbour Quay was awesome as the bikes went around the fountain and headed up Argyle Street. With our many activities beginning with our information days at Quality Foods and Canadian Tire, we kept busy throughout the year. Our booth at the Kart Races was most popular and for the first time, following the Fall Fair Parade, we had a booth at the Fair itself. Our free raffles were popular and we had many visitors stop to chat. Our president, Scot Loudon, spent an afternoon in ‘jail’ raising money for the Kuu-Us-Crisis Line and in return, they held a thank-you luncheon for the city that we attended. The weather was great for the Bike Games, participation was good and while these were happening, the children were being fed and entertained inside. We had a record year for daytime attendance and CJAV was on the spot, adding to the festivities. Our dance featured Howie and the Hot Rods and Rocket “88”. Both bands offered great dancing, the Navy League tended the bar, and Fir Park Village offered their bus and a driver for our Designated Driver Program. Our raffle was a winner for Lynn McKay who took home first prize of the Harley rocker, donated and built at the High School Woodworking program. This year the builder was Tyler Schwartz. Second prize was a cedar chest built and donated by Nobby’s Wooden Toys. Tami Matheson took that home and Geraldine Carter took home one ceramic plate while Ron Williams won the other. Pete Pelletier, along with wife Colleen, spent the day watching a pig cook to perfection on his giant grill. This was ready about 9:30 p.m. as the dance was under way. The response to this ‘pig in a bun’ was overwhelming and by midnight every scrap was gone. The morning after Shriner’s Breakfast was very well attended, after which 125 riders took part in the Poker Run, finishing up at the Arlington Hotel for an afternoon of prizes and entertainment provided by Island Express. Closer to Christmas, we also hosted a free movie matinee for the kids as well as a free afternoon of roller blading. We hope to make these events an annual affair. Our fundraising efforts paid off as local merchants, citizens and our out-of-town guests were very generous. After all was said and done, we had close to $20,000 for distribution and two large truck loads of toys. Once again we added to our hospital fund, bringing that total up to $15,000 which we will use to supply and decorate the children’s waiting lounge of the new hospital. The Bread of Life, Boy Scouts, Big Brothers/Sisters, Dry Grad, P.A. Bandits, Community Kitchens and Outreach Therapy are some of the beneficiaries of our donations. The past three years we have contributed close to $50,000 in monies, as well as food for Christmas hampers and toys for the children of the valley. We have to thank our loyal riders who show up year after year, bringing their welcome presence, distributing their wealth into our local hotels and restaurants and being part of this great event.
- Citizen’s Advocacy $100;
- Community Kitchens $500;
- Kiwanis $50;
- A.V. Wrestlers $500;
- Kuu-Us Crisis Line $500;
- Alberni Minor Softball $500;
- Dry Grad $300;
- Crossfire Youth $150;
- Hospital Activity Book $171;
- Navy League $600;
- A.V. Search and Rescue $50;
- Rugby Club $50;
- Salvation Army $2500 plus approx. $6500 in toys;
- Gizeh Arab Motor Patrol $690;
- Parksville Toy Run $100;
- P.A. Bandits $600;
- Bread of Life $1000;
- Fir Park Village $250;
- DARE program $200;
- Big Brothers & Big Sisters $400;
- Rainbows program $250;
- Outreach Therapy $2200;
- Variety Club 140;
- Parks and Recreation’s Easter Program $600;
- Beaver Creek Elementary PAC $500;
- Bike Rodeo $130;
- Hospital fund (children’s lounge) $4800.
The year 2000 was another successful run for us. The number of participants seems to grow every year and this year was no different. The weather was great, the event was well attended both days and the community and visitors came through with an outstanding donation netting the community about $25,000. as well as an unprecented number of toys. The children's events were a lot of fun for all, the beer gardens and bike games went well and fun was had by all. Unfortunately, our Show 'N Shine did not pan out as the judges did not show but everything else went off without a hitch. The Fanny Bay Inn provided those riders from up-island once more with a pancake breakfast and they in turn donated their proceeds of $500. to us. The dance was a great success with Howie and the Hot Rods and The Missing Lincolns providing non-stop music and Pete and Colleen Pelletier did a fine job roasting the pig and dishing it up for the hot and hungry dancers. The Shriners did a fine job with the morning after pancake breakfast and everyone left for the Poker Run with a full tummy. The weekend was finished in grand style at the Arli hotel where everyone turned in their poker hands hoping to win the big pot. It was won by "Erni" from Port Alberni but there were many other prizes won by those who stayed to listen to Island Express entertain for many hours. A great ending to a great year. We cannot thank our volunteers, our community as a whole, the staff at the Arli, our members, and most of all our riders for making this year such a success. Aside from our many charities that we try to support, we presented the West Coast General Hospital with $16,000. to be used to supply the children's lounge in the new hospital with entertaining equipment (we have been adding to this money for 3 years) and we also rebuilt a young tykes playground with some up-to-date equipment worth about $18,000. We supplied the Salvation Army with many thousands of dollars worth of toys, $2500. worth of food for their hampers as well as provided a free Christmas roller blade party for the children of Port Alberni where we gave away a 10-speed bike. We worked with Parks and Recreation at Easter donating time and money for their festivities and we look forward to another fun filled year.
A side from our many charities that we try to support, we presented the West Coast General Hospital with $16,000 to be used to supply the children's lounge in the new hospital with entertaining equipment (we have been adding to this money for 3 years) Members volunteered to also rebuilt a young tykes playground with some up-to-date equipment worth about $18,000. We supplied the Salvation Army with many thousands of dollars worth of toys, $2500. worth of food for their hampers as well as provided a free Christmas roller blade party for the children of Port Alberni where we gave away a 10-speed bike. We worked with Parks and Recreation at Easter donating time and money for their festivities and we look forward to another fun filled year.
2001 was a great year for the 17th annual Port Alberni Toy Run. Our run has become one of the best-attended and fun events of the summer. We saw approximately 600 plus bikes and the sun couldn’t have shone brighter. Many riders were able to enjoy the breakfast the Fanny Bay Inn put on (and donated the proceeds to us) before they head down island. This also, is an annual event. The ride in from Little Qualicum Falls was uneventful but exciting as the people of Port Alberni rallied round and came out to cheer on this wonderful parade of bikes. Santa led the parade behind the DARE car escort into town, where the police escort took over. Arriving at Glenwood is always exciting – right away the children’s events began, the beer gardens and the Show N’ Shine began as we gave everyone time to look around, fill up on the chilli and dogs, shop for T-shirts, etc. while we got ready for the adult bike games. The afternoon passed quickly with the winners of the Show N’ Shine being announced. The list of winners was as follows: Best American Bike was Tony Bryant from Quadra Island; Farthest Rider – Marj Rex from Bellingham, Washington; Best Oldest Bike was a ’36 HD owned by Dave Young of Burnaby; Santa’s Choice was a bike registered by Mike Burrows; Best Rat Bike was Herbie Cunningham known as “Herbie Two Hawgs”. If you are just reading this and haven’t claimed your trophy, please do so before you leave this year. The dance was well attended. The music by Howie and the Hot Rods and The Fly Bye Feelers was great – attested by the fact that the dance floor was always packed. We had a good turn out for the Shriner’s Pancake Breakfast and the Poker Run wound up at the Arlington Hotel. There the Island Express and numerous attendees entertained us while the raffles were being held. The best Poker Hand won $650 and the Arlington raffled off a man’s leather vest and again donated the proceeds to the Toy Run. Helped out by Dan and Val’s (Arlington owners) generous donation of our beer served for our beer garden and dance we had a great year.
All thanks to our riders and fellow townsmen who so generously donate. We never forget that this wonderful weekend of events, that literally begin to form for next year’s event as soon as this one ends, is put on by a dedicated group of people, supported by a wonderful array of businesses and more people and is done “For the Kids”. Thanks to you one and all.
- Hospital Foundation $16,000, to build a children’s play house (this was saved over three years)
- Rebuilt a Little Tyke’s park in partnership with Parks and Recreation ($18,000 was our share)
- $7000 worth of toys to the Sally Ann for their Christmas drive, plus $15,000 to the Salvation Army and numerous other groups in town
Every 3rd weekend of September, Santa Claus (aka Gerard Jansen) leads a growing pack of bikes from Qualicum Falls through Port Alberni ending at Glenwood Center. In 2005 approximately 750 bikes rode through town carrying toys (Approximately $18,000 worth) for the children of Port Alberni to have Christmas time. Early risers partaked of a $2 breakfast at the Fanny Bay Inn before heading to Qualicum Falls. The bikers met at Qualicum Falls for registration, refreshments and an array of goodies. Leading Santa into town was the DARE car which was then taken over by the RCMP. Once they reached Glenwood Center there was children activities for all, bike games for the daring and a beer garden for the thirsty adults. Gallons of chili and hot dogs awaited their arrival. Children activities (which is all free for the children) vary from guessing the bean count, bounce around, face painting, fish pond, bean bag toss to cotton candy, popcorn and refreshments. Adult bike games included such games as the plank ride, potato in the haystack, wiennie bite, obstacle race and the barrel race to name a few. In the evening there was a dance of non stop music by Chevy Ray and the Fins, and The Maloomba Boogie band. And a pig roast for those who were hungry. Sunday morning started off with a pancake breakfast at 8 am and a poker run at 9 am. A nice refreshing ride through town and out to Taylor flats and back ending at the Arlington Pub. The poker hand winners were announced plus many draws of other prizes accompanied by live music. A very Big THANK YOU to all who participate and the businesses of Port Alberni who help makes this special event happen. Port Alberni Toy Run 2006
Approximately $51,600 raised. All monies raised stayed within the regional district.
The 3rd weekend of September 2006, Santa Claus (aka Gerard Janssen) led a growing pack of bikes from Little Qualicum Falls through Port Alberni and ending at Glenwood Center. Approximately 805 bikes rode through town carrying toys (approx. $20,000.00 worth) for the children of Port Alberni to have at Christmas time. Early risers took part in a pancake breakfast at the Crown and Anchor before heading to Little Qualicum Falls. The bikers met at the park for registration, refreshments and an array of goodies. Leading Santa on the run was the Golden Oldies Car Club, who later was led by the RCMP through town. Once the riders reached Glenwood Center there was children’s activities for all, bike games for the daring and a beer gardens for the thirsty adults. Gallons of chili and hot dogs awaited their arrival. The children’s activities (all free for the kids) included guessing the bean count, bounce arounds, clowns, face painting, fish pond, bean bag toss, cotton candy, popcorn, and refreshments. The adult bike games included such games as the plank ride, potato in the haystack, wienie bite, obstacle race, and the barrel race to name a few. In the evening there was a dance of non stop music by Chevy Ray and the Fins, and the Maloomba Boogie Bands. Also included in the dance was a pig roast for those who were hungry. Sunday morning started off with a pancake breakfast, followed by a poker run. A nice refreshing ride through town and out to Taylor Flats and ending back at the Arlington Pub. The poker hand winners were announced plus many draws of other prizes accompanied with live music by Island Express.
This 2 day event raised approximately $49,000.00. All monies raised stay within the regional district, and are donated back to various children’s groups, activities, and health therapy. A Very Big THANK YOU to all who support the Port Alberni Toy Run, including the Bikers, the Businesses of Port Alberni, the Spectators, the many Volunteers all who help make this special event happen.
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