Posts by Gary Schmidt

At the Toymakers of East Lake, we are a family. We share the tears of loss, celebrate the holidays, and have parties. We build toys together, fix bikes together, and travel far and wide together. We take our gifts, talents, and determination to create things that brighten others’ days. It is hard to believe that…

PALM HARBOR – Laying in a hospital bed scared and lonely wondering what will happen next. Staring at the wall waiting. Wishing you could be anywhere else. Watching all the doctors and nurses run by and playing with the IV in your arm. A nurse walks in with a hand-crafted wooden toy. The child’s face…

The five-year old boy tried to listen as his parents talking with his doctor in the hallway of a Tampa Bay pediatric hospital. His condition would require difficult procedures over a long period of time, he overheard. The child’s head dropped, and he was near tears. Bob Helms, president of the nonprofit Toymakers of East…

Antique Car Enthusiasts Support Toymakers of East Lake For the second year in a row the members of the Vintage Chevrolet Club of America voted to donate the proceeds from their fall car show at ELUMC to Toymakers of East Lake.  Club officers presented the check personally and took the opportunity to view some of…