A simple "thank you" goes a long way.
The 2012 630 CHED Santas Anonymous program is once again a huge success.
Close to 25,000 children will soon be opening presents on Christmas morning thanks to the 'hundreds and hundreds' of volunteers that make it happen every year.
630 CHED's Santas Anonymous runs 'year round' - it has to - due to the magnitude of the need and in an economy as robust as Edmontons the need is 'not' going to get any smaller.
There's a staff of people co-ordinating the entire project 12 months of the year - from raising funds - to organizing the storage and care of the toys that come in to the 'temporary' warehouse - to setting up wrapping nights - and eventually the delivering of the toys prior to Christmas.
Thank you Lana Norlund.
Thank you everybody who volunteered.
Thank you Corus Radio Edmonton.
My thanks to those people and to 'you' if you or your family helped out - because like the character in "A Creature was Stirring" the magic happens when the green garbage bags full of toys leaves the warehouse and ends up at the homes of the recipients.
I personally know of 'three' generations of Edmontonians who make this happen.
People who started delivering in the late 1950's now deliver with their children 'and' their grandchildren - which is the ultimate in 'paying it forward.'
I hear several stories from these people about how Santas Anonymous makes their Christmas special.
I truly understand that!
And I also hear from people who received presents from Santas in the past while they were growing up and they now are huge ambassadors for the program - and also pay it forward with their own children.
My father passed away in September of 1981 - and each year he would weave his magic from the FORBES family room while my brothers and I returned from whatever city we were working in and the vision of Dad is still vibrant with his pipe in hand - fireplace crackling - a glass of his favorite Scotch nearby - Christmas music on the radio - and a look of extreme pride of achievement on his face.
Today I can't even imagine what he would think - but I do know he would say those simple words that I started with in this blog - THANK YOU EDMONTON - you did it again!
Merry Christmas.
**PS: 630 CHED's Santas Anonymous and the Christmas Bureau will be moving in to the new Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit in the coming years. Please 'like' us on Facebook and/or follow us on Twitter @jerryforbescentre to follow our progress.**
Friday, December 21, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
The FAQ's of the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit!
What exactly IS the
Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit?
As well as a year
round home for 630 CHED’s Santas Anonymous and the Christmas Bureau the JFC
will house approximately twenty other Edmonton charities who will enjoy synergy
and obvious cost savings from working together.
Check out these
FAQ’s.
What are the
building details?
-quality
construction for sustainability
-accessible to all citizens
-shared reception,
mail/copy room, training and meeting spaces
-140 ‘free’ parking
spaces
-accessible by
Edmonton Transit
-70,000 sq ft
-40,000 for office
space
-30,000 for
workshop/warehouse
How does the
Financial Model work?
The Jerry Forbes Centre
Foundation was registered in Jan of 2012 under the Societies Act of
Alberta.
The unique
financial model ensures that no rent is charged to the tenants. Expenses
are shared by all tenants providing financial savings and providing a long-term
quality home.
How will the tenant
selection process work?
First off 630
CHED’s Santas Anonymous will now have a properly set up; warm; secure;
comfortable home for the 25,000 toys given out annually. The Christmas
Bureau and Santas are ‘natural’ partners and now the two operations will anchor
the facilities and connect with several Edmonton charities.
A formal selection
process is in place to ensure transparency and alignment with the centres goals
and is overseen by a Tenant Selection sub-committee. Go to our website or send us a note to space@jerryforbescentre.ca for inquiries.
Tenants will be
asked to measure the impact the Centre has on programs in key areas of
organizational effectiveness, capacity building, volunteerism, and financials.
With a shortage of
affordable space in Edmonton, having so many organizations expressing interest
in sharing space has given us confidence that market demand will ensure our
Centre’s operations sustainability.
When will the
tenants be named?
We are still
raising money through our Capital campaign and do not have a firm ‘shovel in
the dirt’ date so it is difficult for current Public Service agencies to fully
plan a move and unveil their plans. Once we have a firm launch date we
will update this section of the FAQ’s and proudly name our tenants.
How will the
synergy work?
When you have a number of community groups operating in
one city ‘often’ there is duplication in service or overlap in the
operations. By working together under one roof there will be obvious
savings for each group and by brainstorming and understanding each others roles
this will be a huge benefit to all groups who will truly understanding the
unique problems we face in our city and how to work out proper solutions
together.
We expect to be able to share volunteers and staff who
have expertise in areas such as finance, governance or human resources; one
person could assist so many agencies.
It is expected, that
more than one organization in the Centre will have mandates to build capacity
and make the Voluntary sector deliver better programs together in
Edmonton. This organization(s)
together with external agencies will teach us better business practices by
having ‘guest speakers and experts’ visit the Jerry Forbes Centre and hold
workshops.
Are there other
Centres like this around Canada?
Yes – many very
good ones in Calgary. Vancouver, Saskatoon, throughout Ontario and even more in
the U.S. We have visited several
and continue to learn a great deal from the current operators to help make
Edmonton’s centre a world class operation.
Who are the current
supporters and how can new donors give?
The City of
Edmonton; The Province of Alberta; Suncor Energy Foundation; Christmas Bureau
of Edmonton; 630 CHED Santas Anonymous; Synergy Projects; Edmonton Singing
Christmas Tree; Kinsmen Club of Edmonton; Rotary Club of Edmonton South, Myers
Norris Penny; Belay benefits Inc; Chubb Insurance Co/Lloyd Sadd Insurance; Edmonton
Motor Dealers Association (EMDA): Fyra Ventures; Gord Whitehead Productions;
MCG Restaurants.
There are several
ways to donate. Make an immediate impact with a cash donation; or a
Corporate/Employer matching program.
Make a pledge over time. Make a planned gift through
wills, bequests, and other charitable investment vehicles which we are happy to
discuss.
If your company is looking for a worthwhile cause to
support – consider the Jerry Forbes Centre.
What is your Capital Campaign Goal?
Our Capital Campaign goal remaining is $3.5 million
dollars. We have support from many
community groups, individuals and amazing support from the Government of
Alberta and the City of Edmonton making our community campaign a very achievable
one.
Are there naming
opportunities?
Yes. There are
several and in almost ‘any size’ from small to large. The building
exterior; volunteer workshop; front atrium; training room; volunteer lounge;
boardroom; staff café lounge; south outdoor garden space; north outdoor
garden/entry; there’s an artwork program; various office areas and we are open
to discussing any of these and other options by contacting Debbie Walker – at
780 440 6359 or Debbie@jerryforbescentre.ca
Can I volunteer to
help?
Yes. There
are several ways to help out. They include wrapping/delivering gifts
through 630 CHED’s Santas Anonymous; volunteering for the Christmas Bureau of
Edmonton for their hamper assembly or delivery. You may even find
your company would like to run a fundraiser on our behalf. Please connect with us at
info@jerryforbescentre.ca
Once the Centre is
up and running there will be several other opportunities throughout the
year. The Centre will have
an online directory of services and volunteer opportunities to support all the
20 plus organizations calling the Jerry Forbes Centre home.
How else can I
help?
Very simply –
spread the word.
Follow us on
Twitter @jerryforbescntr – Like us on Facebook – check our website out at www.jerryforbescentre.ca - and continue to check this blog
for updates on all activities.
What is the Jerry
Forbes Centre construction ‘time line?’
Plans are being
built as you read this with constant updating after discussions, assessments,
and input from highly regarded construction experts in the City of Edmonton.
In May of 2013 we hope to have the work tendered. In
June 2013 the groundwork begins. In September of 2014 the construction
should be finished and we will open the brand new Jerry Forbes Centre for
Community Spirit.
Please help “Build the Spirit.” Join us in making
this legacy project a reality
CONTACT:
Debbie Walker
780 440 6359
Jerry Forbes Centre
Foundation
5204 84 Street
Edmonton Alberta
T6E 5N8
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Who was Jerry Forbes...other than Dad?
Jerry Forbes was actually Murray "McIntyre" Forbes but his name was changed to "Jerry" for on air purposes.
He was born in Innisfail, Alberta (1923) to parents Stanley and Beatrice Forbes - and passed away in September of 1981 at age 58.
He also had a brother Jack who passed away at the young age of 47. Jerry was married twice; first to Noreen Elizabeth Mooney - and they had three boys - named Martin (Marty), Gordon, and Gerry.
A second marriage to Margaret Sooter brought son Danny; and daughter Kerry in to the world.
Some of his best friends in Edmonton counted among the 'elite' of the city, including Senator Tommy Banks, Dr. John Callaghan, Dr. Larry Sterns, and many others. The group were often seen at Tita's Restaurant and their Saturday afternoon gatherings were quite legendary to say the least.
CHED became quite a powerful radio station in Edmonton, and as it grew celebrities would often drop by the radio station for interviews prior to appearing in town.
Above he is seen 'shining the shoes' of legendary singer/piano player Nat King Cole alongside John Barton, former CHED announcer.
This shot was taken with a CHED prize winner and The Everly Brothers. Later, when Don and Phil Everly appeared at Expo '86 in Vancouver I was able to get them to autograph this picture as they remembered the shot of Dad, as they said, "towering" over them.
Rockabilly singer Ronnie Hawkins was a big fan too - and called him "the silver haired gentleman."
Jerry loved practical jokes and participated in some 'classics.'
One of the best was when he was involved in was a prank on the aforementioned Dr. Sterns who had an Oldsmobile Cutlass convertible that he would often leave with the top down in the U OF A parking lot. Jerry and the boys decided one day to 'fill it to the roof' with Quaker Oats puffed wheat cereal; putting the top up; and leaving a bowl, a spoon, and some milk for him to enjoy!
CHED produced many great programs and promotions over the years but none bigger than Santas Anonymous - and his famous "A Creature was Stirring" - was produced by Bob McCord and aired on 630 CHED for the past 40 some years saluting those who helped make Santas so successful.
TRIBUTE from the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame site:
In regards to Santas Anonymas
"It was Jerry's belief that radio should use the power it had to serve the community. He launched Santas Anonymous from a humble beginning in the basement of the radio station, by delivering 300 toys to the needy children of Edmonton in the first year.
www.jerryforbescentre.ca
Twitter: @jerryforbescntr - @santasanonymous
Facebook: JerryForbesCentre
He was born in Innisfail, Alberta (1923) to parents Stanley and Beatrice Forbes - and passed away in September of 1981 at age 58.
He also had a brother Jack who passed away at the young age of 47. Jerry was married twice; first to Noreen Elizabeth Mooney - and they had three boys - named Martin (Marty), Gordon, and Gerry.
A second marriage to Margaret Sooter brought son Danny; and daughter Kerry in to the world.
 |
| *Early 1950's - Marty and Gord |
Jerry spent the bulk of his radio career at CHED in Edmonton, launching it in 1954 - and moving through the system to become General Manager of the station. He spent 28 years in the building, leaving in June of 1981.
A tall man at 6' 5" he was often with 'pipe in hand' and was known as quite a talented performer, often singing and dancing. His love of music was immense and favored the Big Band era, and a few of his favorte artists include Ray Price, Nancy Wilson, Louis Prima, Ella Fitzgerald and Dinah Washington.
His other loves included a voracious appetite for reading; and he highly enjoyed his 1971 Corvette Sting Ray convertible - often driving throughout the US during his holidays.
His other loves included a voracious appetite for reading; and he highly enjoyed his 1971 Corvette Sting Ray convertible - often driving throughout the US during his holidays.
 |
| Marty with Tommy and a picture of Dad |
 |
| Dad 'stylin in the middle'... |
 |
| Jerry - Nat King Cole - John! |
CHED became quite a powerful radio station in Edmonton, and as it grew celebrities would often drop by the radio station for interviews prior to appearing in town.
Above he is seen 'shining the shoes' of legendary singer/piano player Nat King Cole alongside John Barton, former CHED announcer.
 |
| Don - Dad - Contest Winners - Phil |
This shot was taken with a CHED prize winner and The Everly Brothers. Later, when Don and Phil Everly appeared at Expo '86 in Vancouver I was able to get them to autograph this picture as they remembered the shot of Dad, as they said, "towering" over them.
Rockabilly singer Ronnie Hawkins was a big fan too - and called him "the silver haired gentleman."
Jerry loved practical jokes and participated in some 'classics.'
One of the best was when he was involved in was a prank on the aforementioned Dr. Sterns who had an Oldsmobile Cutlass convertible that he would often leave with the top down in the U OF A parking lot. Jerry and the boys decided one day to 'fill it to the roof' with Quaker Oats puffed wheat cereal; putting the top up; and leaving a bowl, a spoon, and some milk for him to enjoy!
TRIBUTE from the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame site:
In regards to Santas Anonymas
"It was Jerry's belief that radio should use the power it had to serve the community. He launched Santas Anonymous from a humble beginning in the basement of the radio station, by delivering 300 toys to the needy children of Edmonton in the first year.
The Santas Anonymous program was still running more than 40 years later, and hundreds of volunteers were needed to deliver more than 25,000 toys each year.
Jerry wrote and voiced a tribute to those who distributed the toys called "A Creature Was Stirring" and the campaign was kicked off each September with a 2,500-motorcycle rally that circled the city.
Jerry wrote and voiced a tribute to those who distributed the toys called "A Creature Was Stirring" and the campaign was kicked off each September with a 2,500-motorcycle rally that circled the city.
At CHED, Jerry was also known for his Good Guy program, his daily humanity editorials, and for his strong singing voice.
The city of Edmonton honoured Jerry by naming four city streets after him in the late 1980's in the Riverbend Falconer Heights area: Forbes Street, Forbes Close, etc.
All three of Jerry's children followed his footsteps into the broadcasting business.
All three of Jerry's children followed his footsteps into the broadcasting business.
By 2005, the CAB Quarter Century Club included four members of the Forbes family.
Jerry Forbes was named an Honorary Lifetime Member of The Western Association of Broadcasters in 1993.
---
Other information is available at:---
www.jerryforbescentre.ca
Twitter: @jerryforbescntr - @santasanonymous
Facebook: JerryForbesCentre
 |
| Noreen - Neil Sheehy - Gerry - Gord - Marty! |
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
It's beginning to look alot like....Santas Anonymous
Here are this years details - and remember we're still raising funds for a new home for Santas - the Jerry Forbes Centre. Follow us on Twitter @jerryforbescntr - and "like" us on Facebook!
---
---
630 CHED Santas Anonymous Campaign 2012
Executive Director: Lana Nordlund Office Manager: Janet Pearce
PHONE: 780 428-8697 (780 HAV-TOYS) FAX: 780 488-0630 (Oct - Dec only)
WEBSITE: santasanonymous.ca
EMAIL: santa@santasanonymous.ca MAILING ADDRESS: 5204 84 Street, Edmonton T6E 5N8
MAIN DEPOT (Warehouse): 12345 121 Street
We are located at the north end of the City Centre Airport on the corner of 121 Street and Yellowhead Trail. Parking is available on the street and in the gravel lot outside the fenced area. Anyone coming to the Depot must sign in and out with Northgate Industries Security. We are in a warehouse and recommend sensible shoes and layers to keep comfortable.
MAIN DEPOT HOURS:
October 10 through November 9, Monday through Friday 9am - 4pm November 12 through December 21, 9am – 9pm, 7 days a week December 22 & 23 and December 27 & 28 9am-4pm
December 24 9am – noon
CLOSED December 25 & 26
DELIVERY DATES:
Saturday, December 15 & Sunday, December 16 Pre-registration is not required
Drivers must show insurance & driver license
TOY DONATIONS:
Our secondary collection boxes will be up November 9 through December 20 at
o Corus/CHED
o Edmonton shopping malls
o Edmonton locations of Costco, Wal-Mart and Toys-R-Us o Telus Tower
Check out the website for community toy donation drop off sites
MONETARY DONATIONS:
Text SANTA to 45678 to donate $10 Cheques or cash can be dropped off at
o Corus/CHED Monday through Friday 830-600pm
o Santas Depot
Credit cards accepted at santasaonymous.ca
Cheques mailed to 630 CHED Santas Anonymous 5204 84 Street, Edmonton T6E 5N8
VOLUNTEERS: Check out the website for more details
Volunteers must be 16 year of age and older (exception ONLY on delivery days)
Workshop Bee Groups are scheduled Mon, Wed and Fri MUST PRE BOOKand wrap on Tues, Thurs, Sat and Sun based on available space Greeters and office support volunteers must be scheduled in advance.
Baggers can drop in anytime beginning November 21st – bagging may not be required everyday Delivery drivers are needed December 15 & 16 only. Families are welcome. Pre-registration is not required. Drivers must show insurance & driver license.
APPLYING FOR TOYS:
Families wanting toys for their children age 12 and under must apply through the Christmas Bureau of Edmonton, 780 414-7695 November 15 - December 12.
Executive Director: Lana Nordlund Office Manager: Janet Pearce
PHONE: 780 428-8697 (780 HAV-TOYS) FAX: 780 488-0630 (Oct - Dec only)
WEBSITE: santasanonymous.ca
EMAIL: santa@santasanonymous.ca MAILING ADDRESS: 5204 84 Street, Edmonton T6E 5N8
MAIN DEPOT (Warehouse): 12345 121 Street
We are located at the north end of the City Centre Airport on the corner of 121 Street and Yellowhead Trail. Parking is available on the street and in the gravel lot outside the fenced area. Anyone coming to the Depot must sign in and out with Northgate Industries Security. We are in a warehouse and recommend sensible shoes and layers to keep comfortable.
MAIN DEPOT HOURS:
October 10 through November 9, Monday through Friday 9am - 4pm November 12 through December 21, 9am – 9pm, 7 days a week December 22 & 23 and December 27 & 28 9am-4pm
December 24 9am – noon
CLOSED December 25 & 26
DELIVERY DATES:
Saturday, December 15 & Sunday, December 16 Pre-registration is not required
Drivers must show insurance & driver license
TOY DONATIONS:
Our secondary collection boxes will be up November 9 through December 20 at
o Corus/CHED
o Edmonton shopping malls
o Edmonton locations of Costco, Wal-Mart and Toys-R-Us o Telus Tower
Check out the website for community toy donation drop off sites
MONETARY DONATIONS:
Text SANTA to 45678 to donate $10 Cheques or cash can be dropped off at
o Corus/CHED Monday through Friday 830-600pm
o Santas Depot
Credit cards accepted at santasaonymous.ca
Cheques mailed to 630 CHED Santas Anonymous 5204 84 Street, Edmonton T6E 5N8
VOLUNTEERS: Check out the website for more details
Volunteers must be 16 year of age and older (exception ONLY on delivery days)
Workshop Bee Groups are scheduled Mon, Wed and Fri MUST PRE BOOKand wrap on Tues, Thurs, Sat and Sun based on available space Greeters and office support volunteers must be scheduled in advance.
Baggers can drop in anytime beginning November 21st – bagging may not be required everyday Delivery drivers are needed December 15 & 16 only. Families are welcome. Pre-registration is not required. Drivers must show insurance & driver license.
APPLYING FOR TOYS:
Families wanting toys for their children age 12 and under must apply through the Christmas Bureau of Edmonton, 780 414-7695 November 15 - December 12.
Friday, October 12, 2012
The biggest question I get is....
How did Santas Anonymous start?
First off I'm 'deeply honoured' to be one of the sons of the man who started Santas Anonymous - but over the years I do have to remind people who ask that "I was rather young OR not arround" for most of the development of Santas!
I was just four years old in 1954 when the program started in the old CHED building on 107th avenue in downtown Edmonton but I will try to put together some history from some of the conversations with Dad over the years.
Early On...
The 'staff' put it together and collected 'around 300 toys' in the station in the early years.
It was rather easy to distribute that number early into the program but it was apparant over the years that they'd need more 'wheels on the ground' as Santas grew so I believe the Edmonton Hot Rod club helped out for a number of years in the late 1950's.
As CHED grew in to one of the most dominant radio stations in town over the 1960's and 70's Santas Anonymous grew along with it - and today more than 25,000 toys are distributed at Christmas time in Edmonton.
Our family broke up in 1961when Mom and Dad divorced and we moved to Toronto so I was out of touch over the Christmas period until I returned to Edmonton in 1967.
For three years in the late 60's, while attending school, I finally got to see first hand the amazing growth and affect of Santas Anonymous in Edmonton.
What was once a few days a year event now was year round gigantic project.
Toys needed to be 'stored' from listeners and businesses that donated; there was a huge expense now for wrapping paper; scotch tape; cards; etc - and as Edmonton always does people stepped up and 'donated' either money or their time to help out.
In the 1970's when CHED was at it's peak it was obvious that some almost 'full time' attention needed to be paid to the program simply to keep up to demand so an amazing gentleman by the name of Gary Draeger became "Santas helper" in the building along with a strong support group from several other CHED employees - too many to list off in this space but believe me 'respected' for their contribution.
Gary, who passed away a few years ago, was one of the most creative (and funny) guys I'd ever met in my life....and 'warm beyond belief.'
Each and every year Gary would co-ordinate drivers, volunteers, staff, with military provision so as to ensure that Dad's mandate of "wouldn't it be nice if every child in Edmonton had a present at Christmas" was confirmed.
Whether it was 30 below - or in a blinding snowstorm - Gary would be there 'start to finish' to organise Santas Anonymous over and above his full time responsibilities in the Creative Department.
I'd visit Santas every year and it always overwhelmed me seeing cars lined up around the block; Grandpa/Grandma, Dads/Mom's and 'tiny children' bundled up and huddled together waiting in line to do their duty and Gary directing traffic in and around the station.
Year after year the line got bigger - and hearing the common line of "this makes our family Christmas" is my seasonal reward.
Another CHED gent deserving recognition is Daryl Hooke - who for '35 years' has been involved in one manner or another in the cause. He has a heart as big as downtown Edmonton - and 'highly' creative. The wonderful signature picture of Dad, above, is his fine work as well!
"A Creature was Stirring"
If Santas Anonymous wasn't popular enough at the time a recording that Dad did in tribute to the many volunteers who help out each year set it over the top.
A Creature was Stirring is one of those magic pieces that has endured over time and is just as effective the one hundredth time you hear it as the first time it "hits you trip hammer hard" (Gawd I'd love to know how he thought up that line!).
Legendary announcer Bob McCord 'produced' the piece and it was scheduled to air for the first time the next morning on the Wes Montgomery morning show. Dad, to set it up, phoned Wes to 'warn him' it may have some effect on him.
Wes' reply, I will never forget, was "Ah Jer - give it up - I've listened to Bryan Hall - what could be tougher?"
Wes played the piece and the phones lit up.
When things calmed down Wes called Dad back with 'tears in his eyes and a very sincere pitch in his tone' telling Dad how hard it had hit him. He didn't chat for several songs after it was played on the radio.
I salute 630 CHED because they continue to play the piece to this day every year to this day and I believe it is one of the longest running pieces in Canadian radio history.
"Mommie is that Jesus?" will remain in my skull for life... as it does for many others.
The Jerry Forbes Centre
After Gary sadly passed away the keys to the storage area of the CHED building was handed over to a rather brilliant lady by the name of Debbie Walker and Debbie credits both Daryl Hooke and Wendy Batty, of the Christmas Bureau, of being the ones with the original 'dream' of having a home for Santas Anonymous and she credits them with being her 'inspiration.'
Debbie was given the task of running Santas Anonymous at a time when consolodation was happening in the radio business and CHED was growing into a 'cluster' of stations that included JOE FM (which I launched for Maclean-Hunter in 1981 as a touch of family irony) - CHQT - and CISN FM.
And the station moved from downtown out to the south east end on Roper Road to accomodate this growth.
As the stations began creeping into the storage area it was obvious that they would have to find a new place for Santas toys. Over the years the program was moved several times, each with different challenges, some as basic as 'heat' and costs became a huge problem alone with each move.
So - Debbie was issued the challenge - "find a new home for Santas Anonymous" - which may sound as easy as 'renting' another building, however as Debbie formed her team to support her during the process it was obvious that 'something much bigger' was under foot.
Most progressive things in Edmonton go through a filter system with dynamic people who get things done in our city. Dr. Bob Westbury is one of them. Mayor Steven Mandell is another. MLA Dave Hancock, Anne Smith from the United Way, etc.
During each visit with Debbie, and often with Gord Whitehead and I in tow, wouldd outline the plans - and before we left their offices each of these folks threw in a 'what if....' thought and improved the plan so largely that a 'simple warehouse' is now going to be a $21 million dollar "centre for community spirit." (the land is located at the corner of Roper Road/50th street)
To simplify. The back part of the building will be used to securely store all of Santas Anonymous needs; but the front of the building will house 'around' 20 community groups who will enjoy the synery of the operation as well as benefit from huge cost savings from the under one roof concept.
To save words here in the blog simply check out www.jerryforbescentre.ca - and/or "like" our Facebook page - www.facebook.com/JerryForbesCentre - and/or follow us on Twitter - @JerryForbesCntr
We are active on all sites and chronicle all news and developments on all of these platforms so PLEASE engage with us and 'tell your friends' so that we can spread the good news quickly!
Summary:
It's incredibly hard in a short space to chronicle the amazing story of Santas Anonymous and there are 'thousand and thosuands' of people who have played a part in its development over the years. Big or small 'any' contribution to the success of the program benefits children in Edmonton in some way, which gives me and everybody in our family great pride.
To have something as amazing as the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit named after Dad, who passed away in 1981, is something that is beyond description.
To hear a story from people I meet on the streets after all these years chronicling their association with the program has a great effect on me - and a gentle reminder that "little things grow into big things" when you plant the proper seeds.
My children never got to meet their Grandfather, for which I'm so sincerely sorry, however each time they hear A Creature was Stirring - and each time they hear "are you related to...." - their sense of pride also takes a big surge!
My father was a very unique and talented man - and I carry his name with immense pride - and not for just creating a 'great' radio station and legacy - but for being the spirit behind the greatest gift giving program in ALL of Canadian Radio - Santas Anonymous!
---
First off I'm 'deeply honoured' to be one of the sons of the man who started Santas Anonymous - but over the years I do have to remind people who ask that "I was rather young OR not arround" for most of the development of Santas!
I was just four years old in 1954 when the program started in the old CHED building on 107th avenue in downtown Edmonton but I will try to put together some history from some of the conversations with Dad over the years.
Early On...
The 'staff' put it together and collected 'around 300 toys' in the station in the early years.
It was rather easy to distribute that number early into the program but it was apparant over the years that they'd need more 'wheels on the ground' as Santas grew so I believe the Edmonton Hot Rod club helped out for a number of years in the late 1950's.
As CHED grew in to one of the most dominant radio stations in town over the 1960's and 70's Santas Anonymous grew along with it - and today more than 25,000 toys are distributed at Christmas time in Edmonton.
Our family broke up in 1961when Mom and Dad divorced and we moved to Toronto so I was out of touch over the Christmas period until I returned to Edmonton in 1967.
For three years in the late 60's, while attending school, I finally got to see first hand the amazing growth and affect of Santas Anonymous in Edmonton.
What was once a few days a year event now was year round gigantic project.
Toys needed to be 'stored' from listeners and businesses that donated; there was a huge expense now for wrapping paper; scotch tape; cards; etc - and as Edmonton always does people stepped up and 'donated' either money or their time to help out.
In the 1970's when CHED was at it's peak it was obvious that some almost 'full time' attention needed to be paid to the program simply to keep up to demand so an amazing gentleman by the name of Gary Draeger became "Santas helper" in the building along with a strong support group from several other CHED employees - too many to list off in this space but believe me 'respected' for their contribution.
Gary, who passed away a few years ago, was one of the most creative (and funny) guys I'd ever met in my life....and 'warm beyond belief.'
Each and every year Gary would co-ordinate drivers, volunteers, staff, with military provision so as to ensure that Dad's mandate of "wouldn't it be nice if every child in Edmonton had a present at Christmas" was confirmed.
Whether it was 30 below - or in a blinding snowstorm - Gary would be there 'start to finish' to organise Santas Anonymous over and above his full time responsibilities in the Creative Department.
I'd visit Santas every year and it always overwhelmed me seeing cars lined up around the block; Grandpa/Grandma, Dads/Mom's and 'tiny children' bundled up and huddled together waiting in line to do their duty and Gary directing traffic in and around the station.
Year after year the line got bigger - and hearing the common line of "this makes our family Christmas" is my seasonal reward.
Another CHED gent deserving recognition is Daryl Hooke - who for '35 years' has been involved in one manner or another in the cause. He has a heart as big as downtown Edmonton - and 'highly' creative. The wonderful signature picture of Dad, above, is his fine work as well!
"A Creature was Stirring"
If Santas Anonymous wasn't popular enough at the time a recording that Dad did in tribute to the many volunteers who help out each year set it over the top.
A Creature was Stirring is one of those magic pieces that has endured over time and is just as effective the one hundredth time you hear it as the first time it "hits you trip hammer hard" (Gawd I'd love to know how he thought up that line!).
Legendary announcer Bob McCord 'produced' the piece and it was scheduled to air for the first time the next morning on the Wes Montgomery morning show. Dad, to set it up, phoned Wes to 'warn him' it may have some effect on him.
Wes' reply, I will never forget, was "Ah Jer - give it up - I've listened to Bryan Hall - what could be tougher?"
Wes played the piece and the phones lit up.
When things calmed down Wes called Dad back with 'tears in his eyes and a very sincere pitch in his tone' telling Dad how hard it had hit him. He didn't chat for several songs after it was played on the radio.
I salute 630 CHED because they continue to play the piece to this day every year to this day and I believe it is one of the longest running pieces in Canadian radio history.
"Mommie is that Jesus?" will remain in my skull for life... as it does for many others.
The Jerry Forbes Centre
After Gary sadly passed away the keys to the storage area of the CHED building was handed over to a rather brilliant lady by the name of Debbie Walker and Debbie credits both Daryl Hooke and Wendy Batty, of the Christmas Bureau, of being the ones with the original 'dream' of having a home for Santas Anonymous and she credits them with being her 'inspiration.'
Debbie was given the task of running Santas Anonymous at a time when consolodation was happening in the radio business and CHED was growing into a 'cluster' of stations that included JOE FM (which I launched for Maclean-Hunter in 1981 as a touch of family irony) - CHQT - and CISN FM.
And the station moved from downtown out to the south east end on Roper Road to accomodate this growth.
As the stations began creeping into the storage area it was obvious that they would have to find a new place for Santas toys. Over the years the program was moved several times, each with different challenges, some as basic as 'heat' and costs became a huge problem alone with each move.
So - Debbie was issued the challenge - "find a new home for Santas Anonymous" - which may sound as easy as 'renting' another building, however as Debbie formed her team to support her during the process it was obvious that 'something much bigger' was under foot.
Most progressive things in Edmonton go through a filter system with dynamic people who get things done in our city. Dr. Bob Westbury is one of them. Mayor Steven Mandell is another. MLA Dave Hancock, Anne Smith from the United Way, etc.
During each visit with Debbie, and often with Gord Whitehead and I in tow, wouldd outline the plans - and before we left their offices each of these folks threw in a 'what if....' thought and improved the plan so largely that a 'simple warehouse' is now going to be a $21 million dollar "centre for community spirit." (the land is located at the corner of Roper Road/50th street)
To simplify. The back part of the building will be used to securely store all of Santas Anonymous needs; but the front of the building will house 'around' 20 community groups who will enjoy the synery of the operation as well as benefit from huge cost savings from the under one roof concept.
To save words here in the blog simply check out www.jerryforbescentre.ca - and/or "like" our Facebook page - www.facebook.com/JerryForbesCentre - and/or follow us on Twitter - @JerryForbesCntr
We are active on all sites and chronicle all news and developments on all of these platforms so PLEASE engage with us and 'tell your friends' so that we can spread the good news quickly!
Summary:
It's incredibly hard in a short space to chronicle the amazing story of Santas Anonymous and there are 'thousand and thosuands' of people who have played a part in its development over the years. Big or small 'any' contribution to the success of the program benefits children in Edmonton in some way, which gives me and everybody in our family great pride.
To have something as amazing as the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit named after Dad, who passed away in 1981, is something that is beyond description.
To hear a story from people I meet on the streets after all these years chronicling their association with the program has a great effect on me - and a gentle reminder that "little things grow into big things" when you plant the proper seeds.
My children never got to meet their Grandfather, for which I'm so sincerely sorry, however each time they hear A Creature was Stirring - and each time they hear "are you related to...." - their sense of pride also takes a big surge!
My father was a very unique and talented man - and I carry his name with immense pride - and not for just creating a 'great' radio station and legacy - but for being the spirit behind the greatest gift giving program in ALL of Canadian Radio - Santas Anonymous!
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*For full information on the Jerry Forbes Centre please contact:
debbie@jerryforbescentre.ca - 780 440 6300
Monday, October 8, 2012
Welcome to the new Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit 'blog' site. This site will continue to monitor the progress as we build our exciting new home for Santas Anonymous, and the new multi tenant community centre on Roper Road.
Please check in from time to time as we add more to this blog site.
We proudly will tell you how Santas Anonymous started; how it grew; highlight the many fund raising activities that go on throughout the year in Edmonton; how the Jerry Forbes Centre concept came to be; and when the 'shovel will hit the dirt' to begin building this great new project.
As well we invite you to follow us on Twitter; 'like' us on our Facebook site; and suggest you check our website - www.jerryforbescentre.ca - for full information.
The Jerry Forbes Centre is named after Murray McIntyre "Jerry" Forbes, who was the General Manager of then 1080 (now 630) CHED in recogniton of him starting the Santas Anonymous toy program back in 1954 in Edmonton. He passed away in September, 1981.
Thanks for checking this site!
More to come 'soon'....and before we forget 'thank you' to the Edmonton Motorcycle Toy Run for yet another highly successful event.
phone (780) 440-6346
info@jerryforbescentre.ca
Please check in from time to time as we add more to this blog site.
We proudly will tell you how Santas Anonymous started; how it grew; highlight the many fund raising activities that go on throughout the year in Edmonton; how the Jerry Forbes Centre concept came to be; and when the 'shovel will hit the dirt' to begin building this great new project.
As well we invite you to follow us on Twitter; 'like' us on our Facebook site; and suggest you check our website - www.jerryforbescentre.ca - for full information.
The Jerry Forbes Centre is named after Murray McIntyre "Jerry" Forbes, who was the General Manager of then 1080 (now 630) CHED in recogniton of him starting the Santas Anonymous toy program back in 1954 in Edmonton. He passed away in September, 1981.
Thanks for checking this site!
More to come 'soon'....and before we forget 'thank you' to the Edmonton Motorcycle Toy Run for yet another highly successful event.
phone (780) 440-6346
info@jerryforbescentre.ca
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