Students Enjoy Special Summer Christmas Celebration

Terry gives Santa (A dressed up Al Martell) a high-five during July’s Christmas in July at the Anne Carlsen Center Jamestown Campus.

Motorcycles and their riders had the Anne Carlsen Center parking lot bursting at the seams with leather, tattoos ... and children’s smiles.

In the 13th year of the annual Christmas in July, members of the Individuals and Ladies Individuals Motorcycle clubs displayed their substance and style. A brigade of two- and sometimes three-wheeled machines flooded the Center’s campus with Santa Claus leading the pack.

As has become the tradition for the day, Al Martell donned the red and white of St. Nicholas and was in charge of lighting up faces as he visited with the Center students who welcomed the motorcycle clubs.

“I love it,” said Martell, who has been part of the fun run since it started making a stop at the ACC campus. “It makes my day talking with the kids. And there is a great staff here -- it takes a lot of energy and a lot of time.”

Laurie Hayes, the president of the Ladies Individuals was one of the many bikers who jumped in to help at the event, helping give lunch to the students and bikers

“It is just an excellent event,” said Hayes. “We look forward to it every year. It started with about 100 people and it has grown to 200 people or more.”

Denise Jensen, the ACC Activities Director, looks forward to the event each year.

“The biggest thrill is to be here when they pull in,” said Jensen. “And everyone that comes is so big-hearted and generous. They care about the kids.”

Each year the motorcycle clubs bring gifts for the students at the Center. This year the gifts revolved around a beach theme with gifts including items that could be used at a pool or the beach. Each student was also given a $50 gift card and a movie pass.

“They love coming here,” said Jensen. “They are a great group that is so caring.”

Jensen added that if anyone has ideas for themes for gifts, the groups are always looking for ideas. You can email her with your ideas.