DOT's Peters: Biker Santa, 'Elves Angels' Hit Road Tonight!
U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters, dreaming of a wide-open-road Christmas, certified Santa Claus as safe to operate his shiny new red motorcycle, which she said he will use instead of his sleigh to make Christmas Eve deliveries this year.
"Rudolph may have been disappointed by the news, but avid motorcycle riders like me are thrilled," Peters said Dec. 18 at the certification event in Washington, D.C. "There is nothing more rewarding than sharing my love of riding with someone who usually does the giving."
Peters joined several trainers from an area motorcycle safety school to run the Jolly One through the paces and ensure he will be safe on tonight's ride. At the completion of the course, the Secretary certified that Santa had learned proper control of his motorcycle and how to react to traffic situations. He is even prepared with his red DOT-certified helmet, she said.
The Secretary also thanked Mrs. Claus for getting Santa's red riding gear ready after some helpful hints from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to make sure he had all the proper apparel. And since it is always safer to ride with others, Santa has picked a team of certified elves, the "Elves Angels," to ride alongside him during tonight's journey, she said.
"He's makin' a list and checkin' it twice, and soon Santa Claus will be riding to town. So please remember to share the open road, not only with Santa but with all motorcycle riders," Peters said. The reindeer were reportedly thrilled about having their first Christmas Eve off ever.