Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Grab some spirit -Wolf pride or Christmas

With Thanksgiving upon us and Christmas just around the corner, its easy for people like me to give in to the winter doldrums. People like me are those who just dont like winter. Even with these two major holidays looming, I find myself hating the fact that winter is here and wishing for warmer weather.

As November takes hold, Im prepared to settle into my misery when Im smacked upside the head by a series of events - two in particular.

The first is the Wolves win in their first conference playoff game. The second came in the form of a group of motorcycles that found their way to my office last Saturday. Lets do this in order.

When I came here, I warned everyone that Im not a huge sports fan. I can get behind the home team, or I can curl up with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book - with equal enthusiasm. But the spirit of this team, the coaches, the cheerleaders, the school and the community just wont be ignored. Even by me.

I cant sit in the stands or wander along the sidelines without cheering. The community pep rally was incredible. The show of solidarity inspiring. Even people who (like me) arent tried-and-true sports fans are putting up signs and making a show of Wolf pride.

We have another game this Friday. Even though I had planned a vacation day, Im thrilled to be given the opportunity to cover another game. I want to see this team win, but theyre already winners in a big way.

I dont really care whats brought them - and us - to this point. I only know that Im pleased to be along for the ride. And Im thrilled that the team and coaches have taken me into the fold, providing me with whatever I needed. My first season of being solely responsible for coverage of a football team has been great. Makes me wonder if any future years can ever compare.

Thank you Wolves!

On to the next big thing thats happened in my world this week.

I was told to be at the office mid-afternoon Saturday. There were apparently some bikers who were planning to drop off some toys for the annual toy drive.

When I heard the unmistakable rumble of motorcycles, I stepped outside. I wasnt prepared.

The bikes parked all along Elm Street and then lined First Street in both directions. I didnt count. I was overwhelmed.

Tough looking bikers were carrying teddy bears and baby dolls - all slated for children in our area who might not otherwise have gifts for Christmas.

Then someone handed me an envelope with some cash - folks who hadnt shopped. That turned into another envelope with cash for our senior gift drive.

The men and women dwarfed our little office and put my writing and photography skills to shame. There were folks from surrounding areas and from some distance - even Texas.

Was it that they were bikers? I have to admit, the idea of some of those men buying a toy truck for some kid they dont know melted my heart. But more than that, it was a group of people who took time to share what they had.

There have been times Ive regretted my decision to return to the mainstream journalism. But today its good. In fact, its fantastic. If you can be in a place where fans gather to support the home team or where a community gathers to share a bit of holiday spirit, youre bound to catch some of it.

Stand back winter blues. I simply dont have time for you!