Sept. 22, 2006 — For more than 11 years, former Marines on St. Croix have banded together in a tradition based upon their brotherhood: The Toys for Tots Christmas toy drive.
Ever since Hurricane Marilyn ripped through the territory, almost ruining Christmas for many children, Toys for Tots has been a holiday staple.
"The first year we went into our own pockets," said former Marine Lt. Carl Gotts. "The next year we tried the tournament and got great support from the business community."
The tourney Gotts is speaking of is Toys for Tots' annual golf tournament at Carambola Golf Course. This year the tournament will be Oct. 1.
This year the tourney will be accomplish two goals: raising funds to help provide toys for disadvantaged children at Christmas and honoring the memory Marine Lance Cpl. Shane Goldman, who lost his life on the Iraq battlefield at age 20. His father, George "Scooter" Goldman, lives on St. Croix.
According to Gotts, the program would be nothing without the help of all the local businesses around the island. "We have businesses participating, ranging from major companies like Hovensa to smaller businesses like Steeles Smokes and Sweets," Gotts said.
Since its beginning, Toys for Tots has raised an average of $5,000 each year. Gotts works closely with nonprofit organizations such as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Virgin Islands Victim's Advocates (VIVA), and the Women's Coalition. Tots also aids churches, big and small, with its disadvantaged population.
According to Gotts, the organizations provide a wish list for those in need and maintain the anonymity of the individuals that benefit from the program. The anonymity does not mean that Tots does not hear response from those who they aid.
"A small Hispanic church received [more than] $300 for its needy population," Gotts said, "[in response] they sent us pictures of their Christmas party. They included in their letter of thanks an itemized bill of their purchases and the [little more than $3] change."
Gotts said the act of righteousness by the parishioners brought tears to the eyes of Marines who aided in the church's successful Christmas. "We all knew we'd go back there year after year," he said.
This year the golf tournament will also include a raffle. According to Gotts, St. Croix businesses are integral in the success of the raffle: "If we dont get to them on time, they call asking if we forgot them; they are always very eager to help out."
Tournament participants can sign up individually or as a four-person team. Single participants should call Carambola Golf Course and a pro will place them with a group bearing the same handicap or skill level. The price for the tournament is $125 per person.
For more information, call the Carambola Golf Pro Shop at 778-5638.
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