Toys for Tots had another great year here in Tehachapi collecting just under 900 toys for kids in our community. Last year between our collections at Christmas and our Christmas in July, we collected over 1,200 toys. This year we were at about the same level, collecting over 300 this past July.

We've been fortunate to have several incredible businesses supporting this effort. Country Real Estate, Tehachapi Martial Arts Center, the City of Tehachapi, Bank of the West and Tehachapi Treasure Trove have been part of the effort since the beginning. Miramar International and the Tehachapi Area Association of Realtors have done an incredible job as have our Tehachapi Police Department, Waste Management, Keller Williams, Circle K, Bear Valley Springs Realty, Edward Jones on Robinson and Keller Williams.

Race Communications was also a big sponsor. Not only did they sponsor the project, but they provided Dan and a van to help me collect and distribute toys. Ginger Patz, my office manager, did an incredible job keeping track of everything as we collected and distributed toys!

Therese Luther

Members of American Legion Post 221 from Tehachapi delivering toys on Dec. 10 to Marty Pay's office for the Toys for Tots drive.

Two TV's were donated plus the 50 inch grand prize for people who donated toys. Winners were drawn this week! Thank you Tehachapi for an incredible turnout! There will be a lot of happy local children thanks to your donations to a worthy cause!

Marty has been a Farmers agent in Tehachapi for over 31 years. His phone number is (661) 822-3737 and the office is across the parking lot from Bank of the Sierra at 212 W. F St.