Marines, RISRA looking for historic toy haul at car show

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The United States Marines are about to take up residence inside Johnston War Memorial Park, and they need some help from the public.

This Sunday, the Marines and the Rhode Island Street Rodding Association will host what folks like Raymond Denisewich are hoping will generate the largest collection of toys ever taken in.

The “Toys for Tots Car Show” will begin at 9 a.m. and include a voucher for a free lunch, early bird coffee and donuts as well as a dash plaque for the first 200 registrants. Denisewich said Monday, Oct. 14, would serve as the rain date.

Admission is free, but organizers are requesting that classic car owners bring at least one unwrapped new toy for a child as well as two canned goods for the needy.

“Come one, come all!” said Denisewich, who owns a vintage 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible and is active with the VFW. “Everyone – the Marines, veterans and street rodders – would like to have a record collection of toys.”

There will also be handmade vehicle awards for categories like “Best in Show,” along with a silent auction.

The Marine Corps annual Toys for Tots drive is widely recognized as one of the largest and most successful events held for needy children from needy families. A similar drive, which in past years has filled the back end of a Johnston Fire Department rescue vehicle, is hosted annually by Johnston Firefighters Local 1950 at Bar 101.

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