By Byrne Bennett
The Record-Times 

Fox and Goat hosts Christmas event

 

Last updated 12/8/2022 at 1:43pm

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. on Dec. 10.

The free event will be in Zack and Brandi Torkelson's barn at their ranch at 1127 N Ladd Road, northeast of Reardan. Guests will be greeted by holiday music, festive lights and a Christmas tree. Besides meeting Santa, guests will receive treat bags, refreshments, make ornaments and play cornhole.

Brandi has been a paraeducator with special needs students for the Cheney School District for 15 years. In the past, she and Zack have hosted a pumpkin patch, Easter egg hunt, and Christmas parties for her students and their families. 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 said. "Here people can be themselves and not be judged."

"Some kids have never had their picture taken with Santa," Brandi 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."

"We want families to feel a sense of normalcy," Brandi said, "and to provide parents the opportunity to hit milestones with their kids that other families regularly get to experience."

Brandi said that their Santa is like none other.

"He gets to love on each kid," Brandi 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 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," Brandi said. "This is one way we can share what we have, give back to the community and offer a holiday experience to bless others."

If anyone wishes to volunteer or learn more about the event, they can reach Brandi at 509-828-9967.

 

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