“We’re very grateful for our partnership with Toys for Tots,“ native Salvation Military Main Dolores Watts stated. “I believe that is the 14th yr that they’ve labored with the Salvation Military so we’re very grateful for his or her partnership and for what they do.”

Watts additionally expressed appreciation to the Harley-Davidson dealership for sponsoring the occasion yr after yr.

“They’re a giant a part of this group and assist in so some ways,” Watts stated. “I’m simply proud to be right here as we speak and to be a member of this loving and giving group.”

Teresa Clay, a volunteer with Child Gunns Animal Rescue, introduced her granddaughter to have a photograph made with Santa Claus, drop off an unwrapped toy and join the $250 present card giveaway.

“I’m simply blissful to be part of today and have the ability to assist with pet adoptions and assist needy youngsters with toys for Christmas,” Clay stated whereas her granddaughter sat in Santa helper Bryan Ogburn’s lap for a photograph.

Ogburn, who lives in Texarkana, is in his third yr because the drive’s Summer season Santa.

“I really like doing issues for teenagers, and I take pleasure in being right here,” Ogburn stated.

Toys for Tots coordinator Richard McIntire, with the native Marine Corps League detachment, took the stage shortly earlier than lunch service started to thank these in attendance and to introduce ladies from the Quilts of Valor Circle of the Pink River Valley Quilt Guild who introduced former Marine Corps League chaplain Robert Louis Guyman a memorable quilt for his service to the nation.

Talking about Toys for Tots, McIntire famous the drive nationally is in its seventy fifth yr. Final yr the group handed out 18 million toys throughout the nation.

“Regionally we gave out 4,100 toys to 1,000 youngsters right here in Lamar County,” McIntire stated. “Once more, we will’t do it with out your assist.”