Lucky Beaver Bar and Burger Toy Drive for Christmas Cheer a big success

It was the first year the Lucky Beaver Bar and Burger at Stateline held a toy drive for the South Shore, and it was a big success with organizer Dreu Murin saying over $10,000 worth of toys donated to children in the community.

Christmas Cheer, the South Lake Tahoe nonprofit that helps feed locals in need all year was also in need of toys to help bring joy during such trying times. Tom Davis of Christmas Cheer joined up with Murin and other community members to organize the event which brought toys from far and wide to Lake Tahoe on December 6.

“The Lucky Beaver Bar and Burger has been blessed and whenever we have an opportunity to help our great community who has supported us for may years," said Co-owner of Lucky Beaver Bar and Burger, Mike Leeper. "We were all in. It was a no brainer when we heard about the need.”

The drive-by event was held in the parking lot behind the popular bar. A DJ was on site playing all the Christmas tunes and masks and social distancing were mandatory, according to organizers. People drove by and dropped off toys and even Santa and Mrs. Claus stopped by to spread the joy and thank those who were participating.

“People came from all over the state and northern Nevada. We had a huge presence from Sac City Auto parts who came with a large group all the way from Sacramento to help the cause," said Will Jackson, event promoter.

According to Murin, some of the larger donations came from Tahoe Ski Bum Kenny Curtzwiler, Jackie Gilpin of Jackie Gilpin Realty, Tahoe Club 100, Sac City Auto Parts, Dotty’s Casino, and Pat Farrah owner of Lucky Beaver.

The South lake Tahoe Police Department (SLTPD) tied the event into its 12 Days of Kindness campaign and donated over $600 worth of toys. SLTPD Chief David Stevenson and Lt. Travis Cabral joined in the toy drop.

“During these tough times I urge everyone who has the means to do whatever you can to help. The need is greater than ever in our community and Lucky Beaver Bar and Burger will always stand by the community and our law enforcement," said Lucky Bear Co-Owner Pat Farrah.

Lucky Beaver has another Toy Drive scheduled for December 13 at their Reno location to help families in the Truckee Meadows.