Still going strong

Annual Toy Run benefits entire county

Members of Sons of the American Legion, Route 56 Classic Cruisers, and ABATE of Kansas District 9 sponsored the 16th annual Marion County Toy Run Saturday.

A group of 166 motorcycles, six cars, a trailer with 28 bicycles and two tricycles, and a fire truck gathered at SherBowl Lanes in Marion and traveled to Hillsboro American Legion for an auction and chili feed.

“The auction raised a little less than last year,” organizer Kim Abrahams said, “but we’ll still do well.”

Ty Zeiner of Marion also participated by flying his bi-plane over Marion during the parade.

More than $88,000 had been collected the first 15 years, Abrahams said. Abrahams was hoping the group would hit the $100,000 mark this year but knows times are tough for everyone, including those who give.

“I’m sure there’s going to be a lot more people needing assistance this Christmas,” he said. “This project wouldn’t be successful without assistance from everyone. It takes help from the whole county.”

Abrahams said the toy run started when ABATE District 9 attended a Sons of the American Legion meeting and asked for assistance in starting a toy run in Marion County. Ron Funk, Mike Sechler, and Abrahams worked together to promote the idea and 16 years later it is still going strong.

All proceeds are distributed in Marion County.

Donations may be taken to Hillsboro Hardware, Hillsboro State Bank, or made by contacting Abrahams.