More Than 200 Toys Donated at 30th Annual Toy Story Golf Tournament

Heather McGhee • December 6, 2024

The 30th Annual Toy Story Golf Tournament combined the joy of golf and giving, collecting over 200 toys for local families while celebrating the event's legacy of meaningful contributions.

Last Monday, the 30th Annual Toy Story Golf Tournament and Toy Drive brought together 110 players for a day filled with golf, giving, and holiday cheer at San Vicente Resort. Led by the inspirational John Rathbun, alongside the Golf Shop Team leads Matt Brumbaugh and Tim Smith, the event celebrated everything magical and meaningful for children in our community.


Was it fun? Absolutely! Players arrived with toys in hand, some donning festive gear, and picked up their boxed lunches before heading to their assigned holes for the 11 am shotgun start. The joyful spirit of Christmas was evident on the fairways, and the Golf Shop overflowed with toys inside and out.


After the tournament, players gathered in the Par Lounge to celebrate. Brumbaugh honored 30-Year Event Lead John Rathbun with a Plaque of Excellence, a commemorative photo, a gift certificate, and his favorite red velvet cake, shared by all in attendance. Awards were given, raffles prizes were won, and smiles and laughter was abundant.


On Wednesday, the collection of over 200 toys, including three bikes, was delivered to the Ramona Food and Clothes Closet (RFCC) for their Share Your Christmas Program. These gifts will benefit approximately 200 families and 400 children on Thursday, Dec. 13. Santa Joyce Whelehon from San Vicente Resort Catering transported the toys in two trucks, driven by Maintenance Lead Bob Anderson and CRD Supervisor Thomas Campbell.


The toys were graciously accepted by RFCC General Manager Vesna Curry and Board President Heather Sossong, Treasurer Dick Bender, and Secretary Pete Reinagel. This dedicated team organized the toys as part of the extensive effort required for the RFCC's Share Your Christmas Program, which provides holiday meals, new toys, and stocking stuffers to children in low-income households.


A heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone who participated, including our homeowners and players who generously contributed toys.


And there’s still more you can do:


  • Donate toys or food to the Share Your Christmas Program at Ramona Food and Clothes Closet, 773 Main Street.
  • Visit the new Christmas Shop next door for excellent, gently-used holiday décor.


Together, let’s keep the spirit of giving alive this holiday season!


Heather McGhee, Valley News Editor

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