The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. blimps and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve are teaming up to host their sixth annual Toys for Tots donation events next month at Goodyear’s three U.S. blimp bases in Ohio, California and Florida.
During the events, the public will have an opportunity to see the airships up close while making a donation to Toys for Tots. Each location will offer a different blimp experience:
– In Mogadore, Ohio, on Dec. 2, 3 and 4, from noon – 9 p.m., visitors can drive through the Wingfoot Lake blimp hangar and get a behind the scenes look at the newly christened Wingoot Two.
– In Pompano Beach, Fla., on Dec. 3-4 from noon – 6 p.m., visitors can see Wingfoot One.
– In Carson, Calif., Dec. 10-11 from noon – 6 p.m., visitors can experience ground tours of Goodyear’s last remaining GZ-20A model blimp, the Spirit of Innovation.
“We take great pride in our Goodyear blimp crews teaming up with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to support the Toys for Tots Foundation,” said Paul Fitzhenry, Goodyear’s senior vice president, global communications. “Through this program, we open our doors to the community and encourage our blimp fans to share in the spirit of giving that defines and gives meaning to the holiday season.”
Over the years, Goodyear and the Marines have collectively delivered more than 57,000 toys and $75,000 to benefit Toys for Tots.
All events are free and open to the public. Visitors are encourages to donate brand new toys still in the original packaging or cash to support the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation. For more information, visit www.goodyearblimp.com.
During the holiday season, Goodyear also nicknames one of its blimps the “Santa Claus Express,” which takes to the U.S. skies to spread holiday cheer. Goodyear first started the tradition in 1927.
