Trustee Mike Hembury, during the Village of Montgomery’s December 19 meeting, congratulated the community for another successful Operation Toy Train drive and commemorated Carolyn Hoffman, president of the organization, and her husband Ruby Garbely for their efforts in collecting toys for local children in need.

“We’re now in our 11th year of doing this,” Hembury said. “Eleven years, we’ve got over 9,000 toys just in this village, and every year, we seem to come out on top because we have so many volunteers and are such a cool community.”

Every year in December, Operation Toy Train makes a pit stop in the village at Railroad Avenue, where residents donate hundreds of toys that the organization’s volunteers pack into their train. This year, the village donated over 1,400 toys.

“Next year, we’re already coming in first in the Toys for Tots because people are still donating,” Hembury said. “So we’re already ahead of all the other communities. And it’s a friendly thing, but we still like to win.”
Hembury handed Hoffman and Garbely a plaque for their management of Operation Toy Train and collaboration with the village. Hoffman thanked the community for its annual toy donations and excitement for the drive.

“It’s such a wonderful feeling to pull in and see that whole lot all set up and the DJ going and everything,” Hoffman said. “Montgomery is probably the most enthusiastic spot that we come to every year, and we just enjoy every bit of it. Thank you so much, and we appreciate all the support.”