Findlay Toyota-sponsored toy drive collects bikes, toys, gift cards for Las Vegas children

The 12th annual 98.5 KLUC-FM Chet Buchanan and The Morning Zoo Toy Drive wrapped up Monday with overwhelming numbers. Findlay Toyota has sponsored the event for the past 10 years.

With help from Findlay Toyota spokesperson, John Barr, morning show DJ Buchanan and the KLUC crew collected 2,287 bikes, 14 50-foot semitrucks full of toys and a whopping $145,069 in gift cards and cash, all of which will be gifted to children who may have not otherwise had presents to enjoy this holiday season.

On Dec. 2, Buchanan began camping atop 30-foot scaffolding, where he stayed 24-hours a day through wind, rain and below-average temperatures for the 12 days of the toy drive. He broadcasted live during all parts of the day, encouraging listeners to come down and donate.

"It is so amazing to see all these people come together and be a part of something bigger than them," Buchanan said. "When you're there, its magic; the semitrucks lined up, the sea of bikes, the gift card count ... it's indescribable."

Barr commends Buchanan for his efforts.

"I do this interview every year," Barr said. "You'd think it would get easier each year I climb that tower. However I don't like heights, so I'm nervous the entire time I up there. People ask why we do this and my answer is that it goes to such a good cause, that you can't really say no."