Corsicana —
The stereotype of bikers fed by television and movies portraying them as rough, mean and angry flies all in the face of the group of 78 bikes and their riders on Saturday, Dec. 1 at the VFW.
This group of dedicated motorcycle enthusiasts is also passionate about collecting toys and raising money, in order to help make Christmas brighter for children in less fortunate situations than some.
“The Blue Knights Motorcycle Club Chapter 43 organized and led the ride,” said Marty Stevenson, co-organizer. “They did an outstanding job of planning the route, controlling intersections and ensuring everyone’s safety. There were even individuals in their personal vehicles along for the scenic ride!”
Motorcycle clubs from Dallas, Ellis, Navarro, Hill and McLennan County were all represented. A collaborative effort of individuals, clubs and businesses make this event successful year after year, and 2012 was no different. Custom T’s faithfully provides T-shirts for the run each year, and designs the artwork.
“It’s awesome to see people who come back each year to support us and they are wearing shirts from our past Toy Runs,” she said. “The Toy Runs keep getting bigger and bigger and the support we’ve continued to receive is a blessing.”
Stevenson said there are many faithful friends and family members who volunteer not only time but resources year after year, and the help goes to The Salvation Army to help children and families in Navarro County.
“We had some great auction items this year,” she said. “The YMCA donated two memberships we were able to auction off, there were crocheted afghans, custom iron work, ornamental crosses and small scale motorcycles painted by Steve Slater, pies and cakes baked by Diane Douglas, just to name a few of the items.”
Kathy Melton organized the auction, and Kip Thomas served as auctioneer. With his expertise in working the crowd, the Wind and Fire MC, Dallas Chapter challenged the other motorcycle clubs and individuals to match a $200 donation.
“Wind and Fire MC, Los Bomberos Chapter and Wind and Fire MC, Firehouse Bikers Chapter matched the challenge, which was a generous gesture!” Stevenson said.
A week later, Becky Chandler is still hard at work rounding up last minute donations, purchasing toys, bikes, and filling angel orders from The Salvation Army Angel Tree. Chandler is an instrumental part of the Toy Run success each year.
“We truly appreciate all she does each year, giving so much of herself, and always saying ‘It’s all for the kids,’” Stevenson said. “We are so blessed to have her on our team! Pete Ivie is another important advocate for the Toy Run, and gets out spreading the word, rounding up donations and handling anything we need help with.”
The day culminated with wonderful food, live music, and plenty of fun and fellowship.
Oh, and toys. Lots and lots of toys.
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Related Photos
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Courtesy photo Riders prepare to depart Dec. 1 from the VFW on Hwy 31 for the annual Navarro County Toy Run. There were 78 motorcycles, and several clubs from surrounding counties were represented.
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Courtesy photo A portion of the toys collected on Dec. 1 at the Navarro County Toy Run held at the VFW. Many 'angel orders' were filled from The Salvation Army Angel Tree thanks to this coordinated effort.
Discussion
2012 Navarro County Toy Run a huge success
Many toys collected to make Christmas bright for needy kids
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