San Diego, CA – Life is filled with “firsts” whether it’s your first kiss, your first day in school, your first motorcycle ride… no matter what the event, we always remember the “firsts” in our lives.

For Chopper (and his owner Mark), Chopper’s first event where he was invited to appear as a guest was one that will always be remembered for a number of reasons:

First, it was a very special event: The 2009 edition of the annual Holiday Christmas Party, put together by a group of San Diego Businessmen known as “The Nice Guys” who, for more than 30 years, have helped hundreds of deserving individuals and families throughout the San Diego community who have fallen on hard times.

It was especially meaningful to Mark because he and Chopper’s predecessor, Bandit the Biker Dog had been invited participants during the final two years of Bandit’s life. It was shortly after the 2008 event that Bandit, who gave his all to entertain the children at the event, passed away.

When the Nice Guys heard that Mark had a new pup named Chopper, they immediately invited them to their 2009 Christmas party, making it Chopper’s first official invitation. And the little biker dog didn’t waste any time showing his mettle. Barely 4 months old, Chopper hopped onto the little Harley Davidson made famous by Bandit and showed the crowd that he too was a biker dog and a force to be reckoned with when it came to providing smiles on faces in need of something to smile about.

“It was as if Bandit were there coaching him on,” Shaffer stated. “Chopper hopped onto the little Harley and quickly developed his own unique riding style… but I’m convinced Bandit was there, somehow guiding him. It gave it such special meaning to me. It was like Bandit was there saying, “It’s OK, I’m here to help…” It’s one of those moments one never forgets.

The event was held in the parking lot of QUALCOMM Stadium December 12th.  “It was raining off and on that day,” recalls Shaffer. “I was afraid the event might have to be cancelled. But it went on and so did we.”

“Between the periods of rain, Chopper rode around the parking lot on his motorcycle, entertaining kids and their families.” During the rain, Mark and Chopper stood under the trolley bridge to keep dry.

While this was definitely a “first time” event that Mark will remember, it was also clear to him that Chopper has all the makings of a first-class biker dog, born to entertain and bring smiles to people’s faces. And it makes it all that more special to Mark Shaffer just thinking that Bandit is somehow involved with Chopper’s rapid ascension to full biker dog status.

The Nice Guys Holiday Party may have been Chopper’s first official event. And it was one that Mark will always remember. But it won’t be the last time they attend this event, which helps 500-750 families each year.  “I was honored to be invited to join them when Bandit was here. And I’m equally honored that they have embraced Chopper now as well.  I look forward to working with them again. Based on the smiles on their faces, I would have to say the children share the same sentiment.