For more than 25 years, ABATE of North Dakota has been holding its annual motorcycle Toy Run to collect toys for needy children, and on Saturday it will renew the effort.

Participants are asked to donate a new toy along with $5 to partake in the event, which includes a ride with stops in Fort Rice, Flasher, Elgin, Glen Ullin, New Salem and at The Post just south of Mandan. Actually the ride starts and ends at The Post, where there will be food, refreshments and entertainment by Buffalo Alice at the ride's end; the public is welcome, and there will be a $5 admission charge.

"Typically we'll end up with four van loads full of toys," said ABATE's Janet Frost. "Basically, it got started because the bikers wanted the opportunity to give back to the community, and they're very proactive with kids. It's one way to make sure underprivileged kids are taken care of during special times of year such as Christmas."

The toys are donated to organizations such as Aid Inc., Community Action and the Ronald McDonald and Ruth Meiers houses, with some held in reserve for when special calls come in.

Signup for the run begins at 1 p.m. at The Post and those getting on the road can expect to return around 4 p.m. It's an "open ride," meaning bikers are on their own for the trip.

Bikers are encouraged to bring their families, either on the run itself or to the gathering at The Post afterward.