Volunteer Eric Henlien from Dripping Springs Presbyterian Church “For Drip” manned the hot dog grill. From left to right: Eric Henlien, Kelsey Tovar (Banasau’s granddaughter), Ernie Banasau (organizer), USMC Sergeant Sosebee, and Lance Corporal Tyler Turner
Marine Toys for Tots comes to town
Ernie Banasau, an Army Vietnam Veteran and Purple Heart recipient, decided to bring the Marine Toys for Tots program to Dripping Springs. Last week, he and a handful of community volunteers, held a collection rally at the Caliterra Welcome Center.
The event was well attended, and people dropping off toys were rewarded with free hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks. “I think this is a great program, and going forward, I plan to make it annual event,” Banasau said. “Caliterra was very kind in agreeing to host the event, and we also received help from ‘For Drip’ from Dripping Springs Presbyterian Church.”
The final day to drop off toys for Marine Toys for Tots is Thursday, Dec. 13. Toys can be dropped off at Le Muse Coffee shop in the Caliterra Welcome Center during normal business hours.