When Marie Bruce, a bus driver for the Newton County School System, noticed that one of "my kids,’’ Middle Ridge Elementary School student Thomas Farmer, needed a new wheelchair, one that would be a better fit and make it easier for him to get on and off of her bus, she decided to do what she could to make it happen.

And, Mrs. Bruce said, she knew who could and would help.

She contacted Bobby Jack Savage and Al Pilkington, both longtime Shriners, and they arranged for the organization to provide a new wheelchair, an early Christmas present that delighted Thomas.

Mrs. Bruce said that she and Thomas’ father, Steve Farmer, would like to thank the Shriners publicly and encourage the public to support the organization’s work.

"When you see the Shriners standing beside the road,’’ said Mrs. Bruce, "please donate. Every donation helps.’