Photos from the Toys for Tots Christmas Copa
Over 120 people from the US Marine Security Guard Detachment, the U.S. Embassy local and American staff and families, American Club of Madrid members and non-members kicked off the holiday season at the December 1 Toys for Tots Charity Cocktail at the U.S. Embassy. Our Spanish friends were exposed to some new American holiday traditions that many learned to like – the eggnog and the mulled wine. “What? Hot wine? Oh,…. Mmm, this is good. Can I have another cup?” Attendees barely made a dent in the mountains of other food donated by event sponsors: Taste of America, Hotel Hesperia, Hotel Gran Melia Fenix, Hotel Melia Galgos, and Carmencita Bar. California Cookie Co. was unable to serve their cookies, but will be premiering their product at a holiday party at the Ambassador’s Residence.
Uniformed Marines greeted guests and received the toys that were the price of admission to a fabulous event. Susan Solomont, the Honorary Chair of the Embassy Volunteers in Action Group, greeted the guests, with the Ambassador piping in. Susan explained the Embassy’s Season of Giving charity project, and Staff Sergeant Ryan McCart explained how Toys for Tots got started in 1947 and has grown to be the Marines signature charity event worldwide. ACM President Jennifer French underlined the Club’s appreciation at partnering with the Embassy and Marines and the Club’s interest in doing other volunteer and charitable projects in the future. Many thanks to all who helped put on this event. Happy Holidays!
