Hi, this is Joe Vieira  # 159.  Just wanted to let you all know that I and my family wish you all the very best of good luck and all my wishes to one and all. I am sorry to say that I will have to miss this event again this year.  Some very important things that concern my family came up and I need to be here, my family comes first if you know what I mean.  Again, the best to one and all, and tell everyone I said,  Hi.    
Joe Vieira

Can't wait! This will be my first year as a rider and not a spectator! I gave up my Bears vs. Packers skybox party for this!  
Frank B.

I had a great time last year.  The web site is mighty fine.  Looking forward to this years ride.  Just went out and bought a heated jacket so as not to freeze too bad.   
Peter A.

I've been donating every year for at least 15 yrs. I rarely ever miss the parade. God bless  
Linda S.

This is the best parade in Chicago. It was nice to see the die hards out this year. Your Web site is great and gives all the needed information.  
Tracy W.

Thank you for organizing this event to benefit children. I have participated for the last 4 years. This year, I am a volunteer blocker to help make the ride safe for my fellow riders. You guys do a great job. See you there.   
Steve K.

Wonderful!   
Joanne O.

Thank you for all you do for the children.  Merry Christmas to you and yours.  
Nora S,

Hi Friends, I am now living in Henderson, NV.  Suburb of Las Vegas. I work nights in ER. I just bought a car this week, cause the desert gets snow!!  I still ride my Gold Wing.  
Rebel Ruthi

Once again, it was a great parade and I tip my hat to the organizers and volunteers who did a terrific job. The weather kept the number of bikes down, but many people still drove out in cages to drop off toys. Once we all reached the end, most of us were gripe'ing that our clutch hands got a work out because the cars and trucks that lead the parade keep the speed at 5mph, which is normal for a regular parade float, but too slow for motorcycles. I suggest they be asked to move it to 10 mph to eliminate rider fatigue. See ya next year. Thanks, 
Jack C.

Just wanted to thank everyone at TFT for making it another great event. The weather was beautiful and we had a great time. I am a freelance photographer and if you are interested I can send you my pictures to use on your web site if you would like. Just trying to give a little back to you guys for making the first Sunday in Dec. something special. 
Rich W.

WOW.  What a spectacular Sunday it was in Chicagoland!  My husband, Dan and I were so amazed with the number of motorcyclists and especially awestruck with the friendliness of everyone involved.  It is no wonder why you have so many volunteers- they are all more than happy to be involved in such a worthy cause. Thanks again for everything.  You must be very proud to be a part of this!  
Sharon H.

We always have a huge party for all riders of the parade with food, drink specials and a band.  Been doing it every year go on the ride every year as well.  You guys protect every rider great and look out for all the children!!!!  Ever need more help let me know!!!!!  You guys are the best!  
Claudine M.

I ride the Dec. parade every year & I REALLY think you guys & gals are AWESOME !! GREAT JOB!!  
Pete L.

Recently retired Vet looking forward to my first of many TFTs rides.  
Jeff N.

I've been a supporter of this cause for over 25 years. Keep up the GREAT WORK you do year after year. 
Jim L.

I LOVE WHAT YOU DO !!!!!  FOR MANY YEARS I HAVE WATCHED IN AWE !!!! THANK YOU!!! 
Gloria P.

Good luck and my prayers are with all the members of Chicagoland TFT on December 4th.  The website is fantastic - please keep me updated whenever possible.  Hope to see all of you soon!  
Peggy V. TFT#898

I would like to THANK every one in your staff for a WONDERFUL job!!  I almost didn't make it because of my injury but as always you guys made this run a SAFE one!!  I'm looking foward to next year and the year after and so on.... YOU GUYS & GALS ROCK ! !   THANKS & GOD BLESS   HAPPY HOLIDAYS    
Pete L.

I think your website is great and very informative. Good job. This site helps me to find out the dates  and times of meetings and events. So I just wanted to drop you a line to say thanks for making a life a lot easier.  
Tomada

Just a note to compliment you (and the entire TFT bunch) on how well you pulled off the 28th Annual Chicagoland Toys For Tots Motorcycle Parade. Despite dreadful weather conditions for a motorcycle ride, the event went extremely well. I was particularly impressed with how quickly the road blockers responded to the last minute change of plans making it a one tier event. They did an exceptional job even though I'm sure a one tier event isn't what they prepared for. I'm guessing there was a back-up plan, just in case. Everyone should feel proud of what they achieved. It could have been a disaster but it turned out extremely well. Congratulations. 
Bill Wildt "Motorsports Unlimited"

Obtaining Toys

Many families ask about how to obtain toys for their children.  The thing to remember about obtaining toys is that the Marines do not give toys directly to children or families.  They are not equipped to do that.  The Marines and The Chicago TFT Parade Organization give the toys to neighborhood groups such as local churches, schools, hospitals, the DCFS, Catholic Charities, The Community Chest and other similar organizations.  Those looking for toys must contact one of these groups to obtain toys.

Archived 
Updates

#66
Dec. 3. 2005

#65
Nov.. 2005

#64
Nov.. 2005

#63
Oct.. 2005

#62
Sept. 2005

#61
June. 2005

#60
May. 2005

#59
Mar. 2005

#58
Feb..5 2005

#57
Jan..4 2005

More archived updates here