Q: When did you first join Runnin’ for Rhett, and how did you learn about us?
A: My wife, Liz, and I met Randy Seevers when he came to our business, Dreaming Dog Brewery, and asked about having a Monday night running/walking group meet there. We hosted the group for the duration of our business, having potlucks and other parties. We closed in 2022. After that, I officially joined Runnin’ for Rhett and have been walking with the group since.
Q: We understand that the holidays are an extra special time of year for you as you spread the holiday cheer and bring a little magic to the season. I believe that you may have even shown up at a past R4R Holiday Lights event to spread some of that cheer. Can you share how you started doing Santa’s work and what you enjoy most about it?
A: My activities and performing as Santa started as part of Dreaming Dog Brewery. Our first Christmas, we hired someone as Santa, which was not a very good experience. Afterwards, I expressed to my wife that with time and a little patience, it would be possible to grow out my beard, acquire a costume, and be Santa for Dreaming Dog Brewery. Since then, and with the closure of our business, I have taken on many activities as Santa. These include participating in the Old Town Elk Grove Dickens Faire, the Polar Express, and numerous private appearances.
Q: What’s your very favorite “Moving Into Life” activity?
A: Organized walks with other members. I injured my back several years ago and cannot run, but I’m able to enjoy walks.
Q: How do you like to spend your free time? Any hobbies of note?
A: I love to garden and have a designated area of my home yard for that purpose. It is a year-round activity that provides good produce and a reduced cost for groceries. I also enjoy fishing, particularly from my canoe. That also gets me out hiking in the mountains to fish various rivers and streams. Finally, I love spending time with my dogs, Dickens and Teddy Bear, our two chocolate labs.
Q: What’s something most people don’t know about you?
A: I’m a born and raised California boy. Myself, my mother and grandmother were all born in the same hospital in Berkeley. Also, I really like home preservation and baking sourdough bread.
Q: What has been your proudest moment since being a part of the R4R family?
A: When Dreaming Dog Brewery closed, Randy and Beth came to our last night to present Liz and me with sweatshirts and praise for our support of R4R. We were supporters of the Capitol Beer Fest as a vendor for the years we were in business. And, provided Randy with his favorite beer, American Bulldog Double IPA (Lucy’s Beer).
Q: If you were a vegetable, what would you be and why?
A: Eggplant, because I enjoy it and like the color.
Q: How would you describe your Runnin’ for Rhett experience to a child?
A: I would spend a little time talking about who Rhett is/was and how his Mom and Dad started the organization. Then, I would explain my own participation and the importance of staying active for health and wellness. Being an older person (at 74), it’s so important to stay active, but that is a lifelong requirement, so you are able to be healthy as you celebrate more birthdays.
