We just had our wrap up meeting of Maple Valley firefighters’ holiday engine event. Now I know that there is a lot of much deserved accolades going out under other notices; but as one of the back room elves, I thought that we would get a jump on Costco for Christmas 2010 and put up Santa’s Christmas wish list for next year to make it an even more successful event.

So, much needed are sponsors for: about 60 reflective vests for all the kids and adults who help in the neighborhoods gathering funds and food for the Maple Valley Food Bank; 2,000 glow bracelets; 2,000 candy canes and Christmas bells to attract attention in the neighborhoods and alert the children to Santa’s presence.

We also thought that banners for Stations 80, 81, and 83 would be a good idea to make the neighborhoods more aware of the event.

We would appreciate other ideas for next year, and would especially welcome neighborhood representatives to get involved to ensure that you’re not left out of the activities and perhaps use this food drive to initiate a neighborhood event in keeping with the Spirit of Christmas. Our first meeting will be in May 2010. Feel free to contact me at larryb@vircom.net to participate or sponsor.

As we heard last week, “The best gift that you can give this Christmas, is the gift of presence”.

If you can’t do it in body, do it spirit by giving to the less fortunate when all too many are having a difficult time.

Merry Christmas

Larry Baumgart

Maple Valley