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Gun Lake Casino and Lakeshore Marine Corp Join Forces in Toys for Tots Campaign, Donating Over 1,000 Toys to Children in Need

 

Gun Lake Casino and Lakeshore Marine Corp Join Forces in Toys for Tots Campaign, Donating Over 1,000 Toys to Children in Need

Gun Lake Casino (GLC), operated by the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians (Gun Lake Tribe), announced the remarkable outcome of its annual Toys for Tots collection drive, held from December 1 to December 15. During this period, GLC gathered over 1,000 new toys worth more than $35,000. The contributions included a variety of items, from baby toys to full-size bicycles, as well as electric scooters, dolls, stuffed animals, board games, footballs, basketballs, and more.

Guests at GLC were encouraged to donate by receiving complimentary slot play up to $100 each day in exchange for unwrapped toys along with a receipt.

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“The 2024 Toys for Tots campaign was a tremendous success,” said Carter Pavey, Vice President of Marketing. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our guests, team members, tribal community, Harley Davidson of Hudsonville, and the Lakeshore Marine Corps for helping us spread joy and love to children in West Michigan who need it the most.”

For many years, Gun Lake Casino has collaborated with the Lakeshore Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program to deliver holiday joy to children in need across West Michigan. This year, the Lakeshore Marine Corps Reserve partnered with Harley-Davidson of Hudsonville to host a toy giveaway event on Saturday, December 21.

Gun Lake Casino is a leading gaming and entertainment destination conveniently located off Exit 61 on U.S. 131, halfway between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. The casino is nearing the completion of its $300 million expansion, which features a 252-room luxury hotel, a full-service spa, meeting spaces, and more dining options, all set to open in March 2025.

A standout feature of the expansion is the Wawyé Oasis, a stunning 32,000-square-foot glass atrium that will maintain a tropical climate year-round. This innovative space will include a cutting-edge entertainment center with several pools and will serve as a vibrant venue for nightlife, live concerts, and banquets. The Wawyé Oasis is scheduled to open in May 2025.

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Harley Davidson News

Harley Riders Bring Joy to Children at Colorado Children’s Hospital

Harley Riders Bring Joy to Children at Colorado Children’s Hospital
| credit: Photo by Image Hunter/Pexels

Occasionally, Santa Claus enlists a team of motorcycle riders to bring festive joy.

This year, the festivities began early at Children’s Hospital Colorado located at Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, where thousands of Harley-Davidson riders gathered to donate numerous toys on Sunday morning and early afternoon.

A Grand Display of Support

Between 1,500 and 2,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle enthusiasts took part in the 39th annual Harley Toy Run at Children’s Hospital Colorado in Aurora, Colorado.

Organized by Mile High Harley, the event featured local bikers, including first responders, bringing toys to donate.

“Every single person on two wheels brought at least one toy to donate,” remarked Blayke Roznowski, a representative for Children’s Hospital Colorado.

These toys will be managed by the hospital’s child life specialist team program for the young patients.

The contributions aim to lift the spirits of hospitalized children, providing them with a touch of holiday joy and a welcome distraction from treatment.

Bikers Rally for a Cause

Harley riders, often misjudged, actively participated in the event, showcasing their generosity and community camaraderie.

Janet Cook, a Harley-Davidson enthusiast and organizer, highlighted the event’s purpose as a means to give back to the community, particularly during the holiday season.

“It’s about witnessing the smiles and seeing all the kids lined up; it’s just wonderful,” Cook expressed.

Leeta Davis, another rider, emphasized the significance of the toy drive, stating, “it really is the best of the best.”

The toy run serves as a joyful occasion for bikers to contribute and express their appreciation for their community.

Healing Through Toys

Each rider contributes at least one toy, with many bringing entire bags, resulting in thousands of toys being collected.

These generous donations will ensure that thousands of toys reach Children’s Colorado patients across all campuses throughout the year.

“This remarkably kind donation makes it possible to provide thousands of toys to our patients,” Roznowski stated. “We are incredibly thankful.”

The toys are designed to bring happiness and support to children who face illnesses or medical treatments throughout 2025.