“These generous contributions have enabled us to help fulfill the Christmas dreams of our nation’s neediest children.” — the Marine Corps

Toys, toys and more toys. The holiday gifts, destined for local needy children, arrived in the boots and back seats of more than 50 MINIs, donated by club members for SCMM’s annual drive to support the Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign.

This year’s event included a breakfast meet-up at Ruby’s in Long Beach, a cruise to the Naval Marine Corps Training Center on Terminal Island, and a run through the Palos Verdes Peninsula ending at Fireball Tim’s Studio Shop in Torrance for an afternoon holiday party.

“The generosity of SCMM members is truly amazing,” said club President Lex Adams. “The toys they have donated will bring much joy and happiness during the holiday season to children who otherwise would have gone without this year.”
The day began at Ruby’s Diner in Long Beach where the large turnout overwhelmed the restaurant staff, but they managed to get all the breakfast meals served and get us on our way on time.

Cruising through Belmont Shore, it was impossible to keep the large caravan together. Dave Read’s route directions were very clear though and we all made it to the Marine’s training center on Terminal Island without any problems.

Similar to our past visit to Camp Pendleton, the Marines at the gate were all smiles when the parade of toy-filled MINIs arrived. Toys collected by the Marines remain in the area to assist families in the local community. Authorized charitable organizations and churches partner with the Marines in this effort, similar to a food bank, but with toys.

“These generous contributions have enabled us to help fulfill the Christmas dreams of our nation’s neediest children,” reads a certificate presented to SCMM on behalf of the United States Marine Corps Reserve.

Content and Photos By: George Marsh

Publisher’s Note: This is the first in an ongoing series of excerpts from the SCMM Monthly Newsletter. If you are a member, and you did not receive the newsletter this month, please contact George Marsh. If you are not a member yet, then look at what you’ve been missing! Join us today!

When we’re not driving our MINI, then we’re most likely washing it. It seems owning a MINI can bring out the obsessive behavior in anyone. Fortunately for us, there are people out there ready to feed our obsession, like the folks at Adam’s Polishes.

SCMM’s recent Detail Day was sponsored by Adam’s. For many members it was their first time trying the brand, which can’t be found in the average automotive retailstore. Their products are sold through local dealers and from their online store. Sales Director Heather Reynolds explained the reason.

“The cost to make our products is what you find to be retail pricing in your average auto parts locations. We don’t want to become part of the wall of confusion ‘ as we call it,” she said. “We prefer to keep with the auto enthusiast who gives that little extra something to their detailing.”

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Just in time for Christmas! The December issue of the SCMM newsletter has arrived. This issue is packed full of yummy holiday motoring goodness…

IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE:

• Highlights from the Laughlin Weekend & Cruise
• SCMM takes a tour of BMWs Vehicle Distribution Center
• Adam’s Polishes sponsors our recent Detail Day
• Upcoming election for SCMM officers
• Details for this month’s Toys for Tots Run and Holiday Party
• Website improvements, and more!

If you’re a member, please check your inbox for this special treat (and if you didn’t receive it yet please contact George Marsh to make sure your email address is on the newsletter mailing list.

If you are not yet a member, and you would like to start receiving this newsletter (along with all the other wonderful perks of membership) please feel free to Join us! Give yourself a great gift this holiday - the gift of SCMM!