FOR a quarter of a century, Team Exotic, the Marianas chapter of Exotic Minis — a renowned global car club — has not only shared a passion for building cars but has also given a great deal to the local community.
What started as a small group to showcase each member’s talent for building cars has flourished into a diverse car club that places a great emphasis on community service.
At their 25th anniversary gala held in July, the chapter was recognized by the American Red Cross of the Northern Mariana Islands for two decades of generous donations to the humanitarian organization.
“[It] has always been about helping the community as much as we possibly can. Our [motto] has always been to help our community,” said chapter co-founder James Fleming.
He now serves as an advisor to the current membership.
In the summer of 1997, the local chapter was co-founded by Fleming and his uncle and fellow car enthusiast Mike Flores.
But what exactly makes a car club a car club?
According to Fleming, it’s more than just being into cars; it’s about family and community service.
“Car clubs come and go. It just depends on how serious your members are about what the car club stands for,” said Fleming.
He congratulated all members for remaining united in the values of the car club.
One of the chapter’s newest members, Casey Huliganga, serves as its secretary, drawn not only to the cars, but to the chapter’s values.
“What makes a car club is obviously the cars, but what really makes a car club is the people you’re with. We get together because it’s our passion. At the end of the day, it’s not about who has the best car or which car looks the nicest. It’s more about feeling like family within the car club,” said Huliganga.
“Throughout the past 25 years, members take pride in working tirelessly and giving back to the community. Whatever the community needs, we try to donate to help them out.”
“This club here is special because it’s been around for now more than 25 years. We remain strong and will continue to represent our car builds while being outstanding community members,” he added.
He encourages community members to check out Team Exotic Minis at the auto shows and competitions on-island throughout the year. He also urges them to drive safely.
The other chapter officers are President Marvin Palacios, Vice President Russell Hocog and Treasurer Jhem Pascual. The chapter currently has 28 local members and about 31 members off-island representing Exotic Minis/Team Exotic.
Team Exotic Minis Marianas Chapter car club celebrated its 25th anniversary gala at Saipan World Resort on July 23, 2022.
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