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Paulsen’s effort helps 230 children have bicycles for Christmas
bikes paulsen
A boy with his mom found a bike to their liking at Saturday’s Bike for Kids giveaway at the Paulsen Ranch.

This past Saturday marked the seventh annual Bikes for Kids giveaway.

The local non-profit organization founded by Pete Paulsen provided 230 bikes to needy area families that day.

“Nobody went home without a bike – everyone who came out got one,” he said.

Paulsen indicated that the cold and rain that morning wasn’t enough to stop families from coming out to French Camp ranch for what appears to be his final Christmas bike giveaway.

“Cars (were) lined up and down Bowman Road as far as the eye could see. Giggles of happiness filled the air as families piled out of their vehicles in anticipation of picking out of bike – for some, this would be their first bike,” he said.

Couple that with River Mill – also on Bowman Road – was having a big Christmas party at the same time, according to Paulsen.

In addition, children in attendance were greeted by Santa and his helpers along with an appearance by the Grinch.

They were offered up hot chocolate and cookies while also getting their photos with Santa – even Paulsen got into the act.