The Calvary Athletic Association Crusaders last week combined their annual spirit night with the kickoff to their Toys for Tots campaign.
The youth sports organization has already filled seven boxes of new, unwrapped toys to be donated to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve for distribution to needy families.
The Calvary A.A. Mothers Club decorated the gym, 4330 Deerpath Lane, with a Christmas tree and lighted Santa Claus and Frosty the Snowman characters.
Cheerleaders entertained the crowd with their routines.
Cannon’s Cake Creations donated a cake to celebrate the 243rd birthday of the Marines, and all in attendance sung Happy Birthday and listened to the playing of the Marines’ Hymn. The Marines formed on Nov. 10, 1775 at a meeting at Tun Tavern, located near Front and Sansom streets.
“The United States Marines have never backed down from a fight,” said Brian Bearl, an organizer of the event and father of a Marine.
The night also featured a DJ; a Cheers for Beers fundraising raffle; and red, white and blue cupcakes.
Among those in attendance were Marine Pfc. Aaron Jones and Ralph Poper Sr., a Marine who helps coordinate the local Toys for Tots campaign. By tradition, the oldest Marine (Poper) cut the first piece of cake for the youngest Marine (Jones).
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