One Brick Short

Tom Powell doesn’t ask for a whole heckuva lot. Once a year, he comes out from underneath the hoods of cars at Quick Lane Automotive, goes up in a bucket and begs for toys.

It’s not like the big kid plays with them himself. He’s put together a great little gig that gives gifts to those who would have none on Christmas morning. He’s been doing his thing—called the Toy Lift—for 20 years now.

This year may be the most important year ever. Face it folk, the economy has tanked and as we enter our second quarter of negative figures—the official designation of a recession—most economists expect it to continue for quarters to come.

“A lot of the people who used to help and donate are now in need of our help,“ Mr. Powell said the other day. “We have more people in need and fewer who can give.“

All charities are feeling that pinch, but the Toy Lift is peculiar. It’s a Central Virginia institution that has survived because the Average Joe, be he a plumber or a radio disc jockey, wants to make sure that something is available for everyone under the tree.

“One way [people] can help is to volunteer,“ Mr. Powell said in an e-mai. “Come to our volunteer meeting to find out how the lift weekend works and how we prepare for it and how we finish up for the year. The informational meeting will be this Thursday 11/13 at 6:30 PM at the English Inn, behind Bodos on Emmet Street. Papa Johns Pizza and beverages will be provided. There are all kinds of opportunities for people ages 8-108. It is a great time for families, friends, youth groups, scouts or anyone who loves to volunteer.“

It’s fun, too. There’s coffee from Shenandoah Joe’s all Toy Lift long and food and pizza as well. Good people and good times are plentiful, even in the cold.

If the day is out and volunteering is too—hey, it’s a busy season—Mr. Powell recommends adopting a family.

“We’ll tell you how many kids, ages, genders, and what the kids really want. You put together a complete package made up of main and secondary gifts, stocking stuffers, books and a family game or activity.Then just label your toys or books with the control number and bring them to Gold’s Gym and we’ll make sure it gets to the right family,“ Mr. Powell explained in his missive. “You can specify the size of the family you want, the age range you’re interested in, or even the county they live in. It’s also a great way for a small office or group to help.“

Bottom line from Mr. Powell is help if you can.

“Thanks,“ he said.

To steal a line from Rush Limbaugh and the movie “Ghost,“ ditto.