Holiday spirit rises each morning on the Dickson Ranch in Woodacre until it pours down wonder just before Christmas. At this time of year it gathers the resources that find their way into Santa’s sleigh by means of a barbecue and barn dance, a benefit for Valley Toys and Joys. The third annual “Back to the Ranch Barn Dance” will take place Saturday, Aug. 1.
The origin of Valley Toys and Joys dates back more than 30 years. The Dickson-Tolson family, known for their caring nature, noticed that some of the local kids were not greeting Christmas morning with the wonder that only a shiny new toy can bring. The family reached out to the Cultural Center, now the San Geronimo Valley Community Center, and started developing the nonprofit program that would become Valley Toys and Joys.
At first, generous volunteers and miscellaneous donations made it possible for gifts to make it to the elves’ wrapping desks; then the recession struck. The group’s board was determined to not let the kids down, and hatched the idea of a barn dance fundraiser. Not only would it capture the holiday spirit, it would also reflect the San Geronimo and Nicasio Valleys’ love of eating and dancing. It tends to be sold out.
The venue is perfect. Their open-air barn easily accommodates 30-plus tables set for 10. Above everyone’s heads, cheerful banners sway in the breeze; as dusk deepens, the ceiling comes alive with many sparkling lights. This year will again feature twice-baked potatoes, each lovingly stuffed by ranch daughter Barbara Hernandez and her crew. Tender filet mignon steaks, vegetarian lasagna, chicken, rolls, corn-on-the-cob and salad accompany those amazing spuds. Better come hungry and be prepared to work off your dinner with the line dancing that erupts during The McQ Connection Band’s range of offerings.
The program targets Valley and Nicasio kids who have heart-touching needs. Occasionally the program reaches beyond, to accommodate the child of a local worker. All proceeds go toward gifts; the labor is volunteered. As Dec. 25 approaches, the gifts are wrapped, ribboned and labeled or bagged, and taken to the community center for families pick up.
Recently Grace Tolson shared a memory with me. One year a donor appeared at the door in time for what she understood to be a Dec. 24 delivery. In her arms was a large, plush Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. She pressed the nose; it glowed bright red. Her enthusiasm was palpable. He was indeed an exceptional toy. Grace couldn’t bring herself to tell the woman that the toys had already been delivered.
A day or two later, on Dec. 23, an angel must have led a mother to call the program. Grace patiently heard her story, then asked her to come out to the ranch, where she was invited into the toy room to select toys for her 5-year-old son. As the mother’s eyes were searching the shelves, Rudolph caught Grace’s eye. “Do you think your boy would like this Rudolph?” The mom gasped, and was beside herself with joy. “This is going to be my little boy’s favorite gift. Ever!”
As the mother was leaving, Grace asked, “Could you tell me why Rudolph is so special to you?” “Oh,” the mother replied, “didn’t I tell you? My son’s name is Rudolph!”
Tickets to the third annual Back to the Ranch Barbecue and Barn Dance, from 5:30 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1, are $55 in advance, or $60 at the door. Sponsorships are also available. For tickets, information, and to donate to the silent auction, call (415) 488.0454.
Grace Rogers, a retired psychologist, lives in Nicasio, where she has been active in local affairs since the 1970s.