Cool cars and giving back is what these gearheads are all about.

The Downshifters Car Club of New England pulled into Village Scoop to host a Toys for Tots car cruise Sunday afternoon. According to "Johnny Angel" Remedis, president of the Downshifters, close to 80 classic cars showed up. Although he didn't know specifics, Remedis said participants and the crowd brought in a great deal of unwrapped toys.

Toys for Tots is a program that donates toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy gifts for Christmas. It is run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve.

"The cruise went very well," Remedis said. "The turnout was good and the donations were great. We're looking to do more cruises in this parking lot next summer, so this was a good chance to see what the response could be like."

The Downshifters of New England is an "oldies" themed car club for enthusiasts of every age and background. The majority of events consist of nightly cruises at well known hot spots around southeastern Massachusetts and northern Rhode Island. "Johnny Angel" also spins the classics of the 50s, 60s, and 70s on 45 rpm records at gatherings. During the fall/winter, the club hosts dinner dance parties themed to the current holiday.

Proceeds from all functions are given to local charities, such as A Wish Come True, Toys for Tots, and the Veteran's Transition House.

For more information on the club, call John Remedis at (508) 763-0576