Serving Lincoln County for more than a century!
Serving Lincoln County for more than a century!
Fox and Goat to host holiday event
Zack and Brandi Torkelson are hosting a holiday-themed event at their barn near Reardan Saturday, Dec. 10. The event is geared toward those with developmental disabilities, but is open to the public this year as well.
REARDAN–The Fox and Goat Ranch, a popular wedding venue, will host a special event for those with developmental disabilities to meet Santa Claus between 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10.
The free event will be in Zack and Brandi Torkelson's barn at their ranch at 1127 North Ladd Road, northeast of town. Guests will be greeted by holiday music, festive lights and a Christmas tree.
"Some kids have never had their picture taken with Santa," Brandi Torkelson said. "The mall is crowded, and kids can get overstimulated, causing a melt-down. Often these 'kids' are too old to sit on Santa's lap and sometimes it's just easier not to go."
Besides meeting Santa, guests will receive treat bags, refreshments, make ornaments and play cornhole.
Brandi Torkelson has been a paraeducator with special needs students for the Cheney School District for 15 years. In the past, she and Zack Torkelson have hosted a pumpkin patch, Easter egg hunt, and Christmas parties for her students and their families.
"We want families to feel a sense of normalcy and to provide parents the opportunity to hit milestones with their kids that other families regularly get to experience," Brandi Torkelson said.
This Christmas the Torkelsons are again offering a special experience to the disabled but are opening the event to all people in the area who want to enjoy a "free, fun and safe" Christmas with Santa.
"I want whoever comes to our event to feel 100% accepted," Brandi Torkelson said. "Here people can be themselves and not be judged."
She added that their Santa is like none other.
"He gets to love on each kid," Brandi Torkelson said. "He engages with every person based on their age and needs. He will talk about his reindeer and even read them a Christmas story."
The Torkelson's goal is to give "children of all ages and needs" a wonderful holiday experience which they hope becomes an annual community event.
"Right now, Zack and I are doing everything ourselves," Brandi Torkelson said. "It would be wonderful if we could get some high school kids to help serve refreshments, lead games and help with crafts."
"We feel so blessed to be living on this piece of land," she added. "This is one way we can share what we have, give back to the community and offer a holiday experience to bless others."
Anyone who wishes to volunteer or learn more about the event, can reach Brandi Torkelson at 509-828-9967.
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