Cruisin’ Association helps Santa distribute bikes, toys

Santa arrived early at Robert Taylor Elementary School in Henderson, stopping by on Dec. 20 to hand out 181 bicycles and hundreds of toys to 750 needy Las Vegas Valley children and families.

Organized by the Las Vegas Cruisin' Association and one of the original founders of the toy drive, Stop Shop automotive repair owner Mike Brown, the 150-car caravan departed Mystic Lodge Casino on Boulder Highway, led by Santa and his sleigh, for the one-mile parade to the school.

"The response was huge," said Stop Shop mechanic Frank Sluzynski. "The spirit of giving was evident throughout the day."

Besides the bicycles and toys, a hot dog lunch was also provided. Sluzynski said 1,040 hot dogs were served, thanks to Bobby and Patrick Brown.

"I think everyone got something to eat," Sluzynski said. "It was just great. We're hoping to make it even bigger next year."

For more information, contact the Las Vegas Cruisin' Association at 643-0000 or go to www.lasvegas carshows.com.

The Las Vegas Cruisin' Association is a nonprofit organization committed to celebrating classic cars in a safe, sane, sensible and responsible manner. The organization strives to bring back the memories and atmosphere of classic and historic vehicles.

Stop Shop automotive repair is located at 6275 Harrison Drive and can be reached at 739-8023