John “Junior” Cross began his Toys for Tots-Tats for Toys campaign Monday afternoon at his Willow Street studio, and seeking a world record.
By Tuesday at 2 p.m., he was at a halfway point and was planning to continue his quest to break a Guinness World Record for a continuous tattoo session.
Stoops got a bio-mechanical heart, grim reaper, gangster and other tattoos.
At 3:55 p.m. Wednesday, Cross accomplished his goal, setting the record and will help approximately 75 children with Christmas gifts this year.
Cross, a former Marine sergeant, has held the program for three years.
Stoops was seated in a chair and the marathon began to collect toys for children in the community.
The U.S. Marines are a driving force of the Toys for Tots campaign and being a former Marine himself, Cross said he is passionate about the project.
“It’s all for the kids,” said a weary Cross.
Misti Cross, his wife, said John begins conditioning himself early to be able to stay up for the “longest tattoo session.”
Marsha Mantooth of Etowah said her children participated in the drive this year at Inkworks.
“We have always participated in a variety of programs such as the Angel Tree and others. I feel it teaches my daughters a good lesson to be able to help those who are less fortunate,” said Mantooth.
Morgan and MaKayela Mantooth brought their gifts into the Willow Street business and placed them among the others which had already been delivered.
The tearful tattooist shared that he has already begun to develop plans for what he will do next.
The couple thanked everyone for the support of the project and the world record-breaking event which was documented while rules were followed.
